Method and apparatus for cooling during in-mold handle attachment

Abstract

Method and apparatus for in-mold handle attachment, wherein a portion of a blow-molded container is formed about a retaining member on a handle during blow molding. After forming the container portion about the retaining member, a cooling medium is directed at the location of the container portion in order to accelerate the cooling rate at the container portion. There is achieved at least one of an improvement in the security of the attachment of the handle to the container, and a reduction in the blow-mold processing time.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention relates to handled plastic containers, wherein a handle is separately formed and then connected to a container during the container blow-molding process, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for cooling the handle attachment portion(s) to improve one or more of the efficiency of the blow-molding process and the integrity of the handle attachment. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] Plastic containers for holding liquids such as beverages, and other household items such as detergents, are in widespread use. Plastics such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) can offer lightweight convenience, durability and transparency. [0004] Larger-sized plastic containers, such as one- or two-liter plastic containers, are typically provided with a handle for ease of pouring. However, because of the increased weight of such larger-sized containers, achieving secure handle attachment is difficult. Also, a s...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides an apparatus and method for enhanced cooling of select locations of a blow-molded container by directing a cooling medium at those locations. This is particularly useful for blow-molded containers that have an in-mold handle attachment. The method involves forming a portion of the container around a retaining member on the handle during blow molding and then directing a cooling medium at that location to accelerate the cooling rate. The cooling medium can be directed at the container portion formed around the retaining member using a stretch rod with a port for directing the cooling medium. The invention reduces the time for cooling the container and improves the integrity of the handle attachment while also reducing the overall blow-molding process time. The improved stretch rod and cooling method enhance the production efficiency and quality of blow-molded containers."

Problems solved by technology

However, because of the increased weight of such larger-sized containers, achieving secure handle attachment is difficult.

Also, a special mold is required in the production of such bottles, as they are more difficult to blow mold than a non-handled bottle, e.g., difficulties arise with stress concentrations leading to possible container failure in areas near the junction of the handle with the rest of the container.

Various attempts have been made to attach separate handles to blow-molded containers formed from preforms, but these attachment methods may not be successful in all applications.

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