If you are just starting out in the rotational molding segment or want to optimize and expand your production, you have surely heard of the Carrossel and Shuttle series machines.
Even though the two of them are capable of bringing great benefits to the rotomolding process, which is already very advantageous for the demands of the industry, both have marked differences that can be decisive for each company needs.
If you are thinking of investing on high-end machinery for your business, but are not sure which option to choose, this article will definitely help you. Here are the main details that differentiate the Carrousel and Shuttle rotational molding machines.
How are the Carrossel and Shuttle rotomolding machines different?
To better show the requirements that each series meets and which is the most suitable option for your industry aims, see below the main purposes served by the Carrossel and Shuttle models, as well as a brief summary of their most striking differences:
Carrossel
Carrossel rotational molding machines are so named because they have a central axis where their arms are centered and move around it to various stages of the production process.
It is designed to work with three or four independent arms, allowing operators to program different times for each of them.
As a result, manufacturing can be significantly optimized, with much more efficient sequential part production.
Another important point is that the equipment consists of five stations, which are also independent. This means that each arm can go through the steps of the oven, precooling, cooling, loading/unloading and stand-by at different times.
Because of this important difference, it is possible to obtain an increase in productivity compared to other models of rotational molding machines.
These are the most striking characteristics of the Carrossel machine, but its benefits and differences are even wider. Click here and find out more about them on our website.
Shuttle Machine
The Shuttle rotomolding machine, on the other hand, operates through two straight or offset arms, two cooling stations, and a central oven.
Its objective is to ensure the best relationship between productivity and economy since it allows you to work with only one or two stations, according to your immediate needs and guarantees an easy change of molds.
In it, while one cart is in the oven, it is possible to work with the exchange of molds in the other.
In addition, its integrated machine control software allows to record the consumption per kilogram of processed material, by number of pieces and by gas in each cycle through the Gas Flow Measurement System (optional accessory).
Due to these characteristics, it is indicated for manufacturers that require a more frequent mold change.
As we clarified in the case of the Carrossel rotational molding machine, this was a brief summary of the needs served by Shuttle. To learn more about their unique spreads, click here and see the full information on our website.
Carrossel or Shuttle - Main differences
Based on what we explained in the previous two points, the choice between Carrossel and Shuttle machines varies according to the productive purpose of your industry.
The Carrossel rotomolding machine is synonymous of productivity, being ideal for sequential mass production, which aims to quickly and efficiently manufacture products in large quantities.
The Shuttle machine, on the other hand, offers a better cost-benefit ratio for companies that serve different segments or need to change molds more frequently, because it is possible to unmold the products on a cart while the other goes through a mold change.
Why is it important to choose the ideal rotational molding machine?
Of course, choosing the right rotational molding machine for your business is key to ensuring a more viable and successful production.
After all, while the Carrossel and Shuttle machines are very efficient and provide significant differentials to the industry, they were planned to meet specific needs.
To keep your customers happy and meet market demands, you must tailor your operations to what you hope to achieve in each production cycle. That is why it is important to choose the right rotational molding machine for your process.
Therefore, you must be clear about your anticipated production volume or desired flexibility to meet the categories you serve.
For more details on the Carrossel and Shuttle machines, or to request a quote, contact us to contact the Rotoline team.
