Instrumentation and Modelling of the Stretch Blow Moulding Process

ISBM is currently experiencing an increasing demand and only a scientifically based understanding can manage the stringent market conditions. Therefore, a better understanding of the interdependence between the machine parameters set up by the operators, process parameters or material behaviour under the initial conditions and the bottle final thickness distribution in an industrial setting is mandatory. Comprehensive measurements of various parameters on an industrial machine allowed a more complete assessment of the process. In addition, the temperature of the pre-form was measured on both inside and outside surfaces which revealed significant difference. Particular care was given to the understanding of the air flow during blowing. In this sense a simple thermodynamic model is proposed and implemented in an ISBM simulation. The followed indicators were the kinematics of the bubble expansion and pressure and force histories.