Extrusion blow molding is a manufacturing process used to produce hollow parts that range in size from large septic tanks to small eye-drop squeeze bottles. Using a process derived from the glass blowing industry, a molten open-ended tube of resin (called a parison) is extruded through an annular die and captured between two mold halves as they close. Mating surfaces on the mold pinch together the open areas of the tube and high pressure air is introduced inside the captured tube, inflating it to conform to the shape of the inside of the mold.
In this manner, blow molded parts, including bottles for detergents, bleach, household cleaners and food products (including milk, juice, and water) are economically produced. While high density polyethylene is the largest volume thermoplastic used in extrusion blow molding, parts are routinely made from polypropylene, LLDPE and LDPE.
Benefits and Applications
Polyethylene and polypropylene produced by LyondellBasell are used to make food containers, milk jugs, laundry detergent bottles, ice chests and other plastic bottles and containers.
Properties
The blow molding process produces lightweight and functional containers used for packaging many products. Typical beneficial attributes include:
- Excellent impact resistance, producing shatter-resistant containers and parts
- The ability to incorporate convenience features such as handles and easy-pour spouts
- The ability to provide product differentiation through innovative design and easy coloration
- Excellent compatibility with a wide variety of industrial and household chemicals
- Excellent properties for contact with foodstuffs
- The ability to produce multi-layer products using dissimilar polymers that, when combined, provide expanded barrier properties
Technical Information
More information about our wide range of products available for
extrusion blow molding processes/applications can be found on our polymers site, where you may register as a new customer or login to access MSDS and RAPIDS documents. From our polymers site, you also may access the
e-commerce platforms, Connect and Marketplace.
Manufacturing Facilities
LyondellBasell has multiple manufacturing locations and a broad slate of products for use in molding technologies to ensure that we can address your product needs. We offer numerous products for use in multiple technologies so that you can achieve the quality and specifications you need.