Part One: The Rotational Molding Industry

Typical Rotomolding Applications and Markets

Typical Rotomolding Applications and Markets

Some examples of modern rotomolded products are shown in the inner covers of this Design Guide. The rotomolding process is ideally suited as a manufacturing method for many diverse product / market segments.

Rotational molding is well known for its ability to produce tanks of all kinds. In developing countries, the manufacture of water storage tanks and other basic infrastructure-related products is often a dominant feature. Whilst some other products are rotomolded, the range may be limited. In more developed markets, the range of products made by rotomolding can be extensive. In some industrial markets, the demands of a particular sector (eg automotive) or even a very large OEM (original equipment manufacturer) may be a dominant influence.

Tanks for the containment of many other types of fluid are also very common. The relatively high chemical stability of polyethylene makes rotomolded chemical tanks, drums and other products a popular choice. Rotomolded fuel tanks are also a common feature for some vehicles and devices; polyethylene has acceptable permeation characteristics for diesel fuels, but for gasoline containment a barrier layer may need to be incorporated.

Many products related to materials handling are rotomolded; crates, bins, IBC’s (intermediate bulk containers) and drums are all common products.

In the recreational field, boats, truck cabs, motorcycle shields, swimming pool filter housings, surfboards and balls of all kinds are made by the rotational molding process. Riding toys such as hobby horses and car bodies are common. Climb-on, -over, -through and slide-down toys have all been made by the rotational molding process.

The point-of-sale / advertising industry uses rotational molding to produce a wide range of signage, mannequins and other types of advertising devices which both display and store the products.

Safety devices such as marker floats and buoys, highway safety barriers, and road markers are often rotationally molded products.

In the industrial field, rotationally molded parts find use as instrument housings, carrying cases, instrument carts, lighting globes and gasoline tanks for all kinds of vehicles and machines.

Household products such as planters, serving trays and carts, room dividers, refuse containers and picnic tables are made by rotational molding.

Rotationally molded parts are used in the health and science field, as instrument housings, carrying cases, dental chairs, hospital trolleys and other types of furniture.

The whole “green” revolution has produced a new range of rotomolded products, for recycling, garbage collection and sorting, as well as composting devices. There are even rotomolded balancing tanks built into the blades of some wind turbines.