If your company creates plastic products, blow molding machinery is the core of your business. Machines for blow molding inflate plastic into a mold to create a product that is strong and light. Blow molding is used to create a wide range of products, from plastic bottles and food containers to lighting products, toys and plastic furniture.

Whether you create plastic products or need to create containers for your manufactured products, you need to purchase and use equipment that creates quality products while keeping production costs low. Some things to consider when purchasing blow molding machines are:

1. If the budget allows, look for providers of plastics blow molding machines that offer custom machinery and molds.

2. Purchase used blow molding machines if your budget is limited.

3. Get design support and training to use your machinery to its fullest potential.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get custom designed plastic blow molding machinery and molds

Find manufacturers that create custom mold solutions.

I recommend: R&B Plastics Machinery will work with you to develop solutions that separate your company from the competition. Davis-Standard Blow Molding Systems offers custom designed blow molding systems.

Get assistance designing and using injection blow molding machinery

Design and consulting companies can help improve quality and reduce production costs. Training courses for new workers and ongoing refresher courses will keep your employees up to speed.

I recommend: Western Industries Inc. will guide you in redesigning or modifying existing equipment. Blow Molded Products offers design services to meet specifications and keep unit costs low. The School of Molding from Paulson Training Programs Inc. provides a hands-on process simulation program along with classroom instruction. FGH Systems Inc. provides technicians for on site training.

Look for used blow molders

If your current budget doesn't allow for new equipment, purchase quality used parts and machines.

I recommend: Timberline Machinery Inc. is a large dealer that purchases complete plants and offers a large inventory of used equipment. Aaron Equipment offers as-is and reconditioned equipment. Most items can be inspected at their plant.

Put a specialist's blow molding equipment to work for you

When you don't have the space or budget for equipment, consider having products produced by a blow molding company.

I recommend: Clack Corporation produces parts ranging from two ounces to 150 gallons in a wide variety of materials. W.R. Kershaw Inc. specializes in outdoor lighting, but also offers custom blow molding for various industries, including novelty items, beverage containers and playground equipment. CY Plastics Works Inc. specializes in short and medium runs of a variety of products

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When purchasing used blow molding equipment, check the warranty information. If possible, inspect the machine while it is powered up and put it through some test runs.