4. Analysis of a rotational molding cycle

4.1 The different steps of a rotational molding cycle

The set temperature of the oven is quite different from that prevailing inside the mold. The temperature of the mold and of the polymer are very dependent on that of the oven, but they also depend on other factors such as :

• the quantity and nature of the polymer ;

• the surface/volume ratio of the mold ;

• the mold material and its thickness.

The temperature of air inside the mold gives a fairly accurate idea of the changes in state of the polymer, especially when it begins to melt, when the melting (plasticization) is complete, and when it begins to crystallize.

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