Rotational Molding Advantages

Rotational molding advantages can save you time and money. Compared to other plastics processing methods, rotational molding can maintain a more consistently uniform wall thickness. Rotomolding or rotocasting, as this manufacturing method is also known, can produce strong, thick corners and double-wall construction, too. With rotomolding, features such as molded inserts, reinforcements, and undercuts are also easy-to-achieve. A wide variety of surface textures and colors are possible.

Tooling and Materials

In terms of tooling and materials, rotational molding is both cost-effective and flexible. Because operating pressures are relatively low, molds can be made from less expensive materials. There’s no need for secondary tooling, and tool changes can be made quickly. Plus, unlike blow molding, rotational molding is less expensive because there’s no internal core to manufacture.

Rotational molding supports the use of many different polymers. Polyethylenes include LLDPE and HDPE, cross-linked compounds, and recycled or reground materials. Rotomolded plastics also include polyvinyl chloride, nylon, polypropylene, and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Depending on the properties of the plastic that’s used, rotomolded products can be either more rigid or more flexible.

More Design and Manufacturing Advantages

Rotational molding is flexible enough for projects ranging from small, intricate designs to large, complex parts and assemblies. This plastic manufacturing method is ideal for prototyping and cost-effective for both lower and higher volume production runs. Wall thickness, part weight, and part tolerances are easy-to-control. Rotomolded parts are virtually stress-free and any cross-section deformation is minimal. Importantly, metal or plastic inserts can be molded as integral parts of the rotomolded product.

Rotomolding supports the replacement of heavier, more expensive materials (such as metals) with lighter, less expensive materials. Examples of rotomolded products include ventilation ducts, manifolds, parts washers, water treatment tanks, and shopping cart accessories. As these examples show, rotomolding can create virtually any size product and with fine details and an excellent surface finish.