DT p99-101 POLYMER

Flashcards covering key concepts in manufacturing processes and techniques, focusing on polymer processes and the types of products made.

What are the key features of Injection Moulding?

Complex 3D shapes can easily be made; fast industrial production method; high initial tooling cost; used for large-scale mass or continuous production.

What products are typically made using Injection Moulding?

Electrical product casings such as televisions, vacuum cleaners, calculators, and kettles.

What is a key feature of Rotational Moulding?

Seamless hollow components with a large wall thickness; mould continuously rotated through heating and cooling.

What products are commonly produced through Rotational Moulding?

Traffic cones, kayaks, water tanks, kerosene tanks, and children's play equipment.

What is Compression Moulding?

Uses a pre-weighed 'slug' of polymer; polymer is removed from moulds while still warm; suitable for large-scale batch production.

What are typical products made with Compression Moulding?

Electrical light fittings, switches, plugs, picnic plates, and cups.

What distinguishes Extrusion from other moulding processes?

Like injection moulding except polymer is forced through a die; used for continuous production.

What products are most commonly made using Extrusion?

Solid rods, tubing, angle sections, and curtain track.

What is Blow Moulding primarily used for?

Produces hollow thin-walled components; high initial tooling cost; used for continuous production.

What products can be made using Blow Moulding?

Drink bottles, shampoo bottles, and detergent bottles.

What are the key features of Vacuum Forming?

Moulds are relatively easy to make but require a draft angle, air holes, and rounded corners; not cost-effective for one-off manufacture.

What products are typically made using Vacuum Forming?

Lightweight trays, box inserts, liners, takeaway coffee cups, and yoghurt pots.

What is the additional feature of Thermoforming compared to Vacuum Forming?

An additional mould is pressed onto the surface of the polymer sheet while the vacuum is applied, allowing for fine detail.

What products are commonly manufactured through Thermoforming?

Baths and food packaging such as fruit punnets, cake boxes, and sandwich boxes.