PET preforms are intermediate products in the production chain that are widely used in the manufacture of large volumes of plastic bottles and containers, mainly.

They are used as a base material in the manufacture of bottles and other containers using the injection blow molding technique. Preforms are usually made from Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), which is why they are commonly known as PET preforms.

How are preforms created?

Preforms are molded using an injection process in which molten plastic is injected into molds to form the piece. The result is a tube that will later give rise to containers made from this material.

To manufacture the PET preform, the granulated resin must first be heated until a soft mixture is obtained, which is injected into a mold and passed through a cooling system to harden it.

Once manufactured, the preforms are heated and then blown into specific moulds that give them the final shape of bottles or other types of containers through the blow moulding process.

PET preforms can be used for packaging mineral water, juices, spirits, soft drinks, carbonated drinks, oils suitable for consumption, medicines, pickles, jams, consumer products, etc.

Preforms and bottles in one or two stages

The development of creating the preforms and bottles can take place in one or two-stage systems.

Single-stage or integrated system

The injection and blow-forming processes are integrated in the same machine. The preform is injection moulded and, while still hot, is then blown to form the part. This method is suitable for small and medium-sized production lines.

Two-stage systems

This method uses two separate machines; a machine for the injection of the preforms and another blowing machine to reheat the preforms and make the final piece. This method is the most suitable for medium and large scale production.

What are PET preforms used for?

We can say that preforms are the primary form in which some plastic containers are presented. PET preforms can range from 10 grams to 750 grams, this will depend on the type of container, the larger, the heavier and thicker the PET preforms will be.

Preforms are used in the development of various applications related to different industries. Some of the most common applications include the development of bottles for:

• Beverages
• Dairy products
• Personal care products
• Cleaning products