Collaboration
Lighter tank saves fuelAll about rotomoulding
The possibilities of plastic rotational molding are virtually limitless. From robust fuel tanks for agricultural machinery and advanced slosh dampers for wind turbines to durable toilet cabins – the bigger the challenge, the better. It requires deep technical knowledge and a bold approach to create solutions that are ready for the future. At Pentas, we have the expertise and resources to tackle any challenge and deliver innovative, future-proof solutions.
The unique rotational moulding process of PentasWhat is rotational moulding?
The unique rotational moulding process of Pentas
With nearly 50 years of experience and more than 700 different plastic products, our process runs like a well-oiled machine. We can manufacture items up to a diameter of 2,500 mm and a length of 4,000 mm. Do you want to challenge us?
Looking for more information about Pentas and rotomoulding? Use the table of contents to navigate to the topic.
Table of contents
Why choose Pentas as a rotational moulding expert?
Efficiency
At Pentas, our team of 150 people is passionate about technology. There’s always someone who thinks things can be more efficient. We encourage that thinking and are not afraid to make fundamental changes, but only if it leads to more efficient operations, benefiting our customers.
Quality
Using FMEA, we prevent design errors, and our ERP systems track the product throughout the entire process. We continuously monitor quality during production. If there’s a deviation from the drawing, we solve it at the source. It’s no wonder we are ISO 9001 certified.
Sustainability
We are highly driven to produce as sustainably as possible, continuously monitoring the environmental performance of our processes. Almost all waste streams are reused. We continuously innovate to make our products stronger, lighter, and more sustainable.
The well-oiled machine
Phase 1: Drawing up the Programme of Requirements
In order to define the development, it is important to draft a Programme of Requirements (PoR) that your product will have to meet.
Phase 2: Conceptualisation
The concept focuses on integrating functions and producibility as a plastic rotational moulding product. This phase results in the delivery of one or multiple concepts with a motivation and testing of the concepts against the PoR as well as a substantiation with design sketches.
Phase 3: Analysis
A risk analysis will be conducted in consultation with yourself. We will test whether the choice of material is suitable for your requirements.
Phase 4: Engineering (Detailing of the design)
Detailing of the plastic rotational moulding product is an important phase before we can proceed with mould construction and automation.
Phase 5: Mould and automation
Based on your final 2D and 3D CAD drawings of the plastic rotational moulding product, Pentas will start development and mould construction.
Phase 6: Production
Before Pentas takes your plastic rotational moulding product into mass production, the product and the process will have to be approved.
Phase 7: Finishing and assembly
This extension of the production of your plastic rotational moulding product requires associated steps to validate the process
Working at Pentas
Successful collaborations
At Pentas, we take pride in our long-term collaborations with various customers. These sustainable relationships form the foundation of our success. Together with our clients, we strive for innovation and excellence, offering tailored solutions that meet their needs perfectly. These close partnerships allow us to grow and deliver innovative rotational moulding solutions that meet the highest standards.
A sample of our clients
What is rotational moulding?
Rotational moulding (Rotomoulding) is a thermal forming process used to create hollow plastic components. The process involves filling a mould with fine plastic powder, heating it, and rotating the mould around two perpendicular axes. The powder melts and adheres evenly to the inside of the mould, resulting in a uniform wall thickness and minimal stress in the final product. After heating, the mould is cooled, and the finished component is easily removed from the mould without further processing.
More information about rotational moulding
Rotational moulding is a versatile and innovative technique used to manufacture hollow, seamless plastic products. It is renowned for its ability to produce complex and large shapes with consistent wall thickness and minimal stress.
Rotational moulding
The foaming of rotationally moulded products
Rotational moulding
The rotational moulding process
Rotational moulding
The future of rotational moulding
Rotational moulding
Materials for Rotational Moulding
Rotational moulding
Design rules for rotational moulding
Rotational moulding
From idea to product, here is how rotational moulding worksMoulds and rotational moulding
We have years of experience in designing and producing high-quality moulds that form the foundation of our innovative rotational moulding processes. Every mould we create is carefully tailored to the specific requirements of our customers, resulting in products of exceptional quality. With our expertise in moulds and rotational moulding, we continuously set new standards in the industry.
Markets
At Pentas, we serve a wide range of markets with our expertise in rotational moulding. Our products find their way into various sectors, including construction, agriculture, automotive, and consumer products. Our flexibility and technical know-how enable us to provide customised solutions for every market we serve.
Markets
Rotomoulded packaging materialRotational moulding is a versatile manufacturing technique that can also be applied in the production of packaging. This technique is particularly suited for creating hollow products, making it ideal for packaging materials such as plastic pallets, storage tanks, transport and storage containers, IBC containers (Intermediate Bulk Containers), and plastic barrels and drums. In this article, we will discuss the various applications and advantages of rotomoulded packaging materials.
Markets
More than a thousand products: The versatility of rotational mouldingAt Pentas, we take pride in the wide range of products we can manufacture using our rotational moulding process. Rotational moulding is an extremely versatile technique used in numerous markets and countries. Our products range in weight from 500 grams to 100 kilograms, and the applications are just as diverse. Whether it’s urinals for events, fuel tanks for agricultural machinery, buoys at sea, or water tanks in campers – our production currently exceeds a thousand unique products.
Markets
Rotational moulding in the offshore marketThe offshore industry operates in some of the most challenging and unpredictable environments in the world. Whether it’s drilling rigs, wind farms, oil platforms, or maritime installations, the materials and products used in this sector must be exceptionally durable, strong, and reliable. Pentas offers rotational moulding as a versatile and robust manufacturing technique that perfectly meets the demanding needs of the offshore market.
Markets
Rotationally moulded products at the festival groundsWhen you take a break from dancing, you might be sitting on a rotationally moulded picnic bench from our factory in Almelo. Besides picnic tables, we make many more products that make your day at the festival grounds more enjoyable. In this blog, we tell you everything about the rotationally moulded products from our factory that you can spot at your next festival.
Markets
Rotational molding in the agricultural sectorRotational Molding is an essential method across various sectors. In this blog post, we'll discuss rotational molding and its application in producing tanks, fenders, and air ducts for agricultural machinery. To produce these parts and meet the high demands of the agricultural sector, expertise is needed.
Quality
Quality is at the heart of everything we do. We only deliver products that meet the highest standards. Every part we produce undergoes strict inspections to ensure it meets the specific requirements of our customers. We use advanced technologies and tightly controlled production processes to ensure consistency and precision.
Innovation
Innovation is the foundation of our success stories. We continuously strive to push the boundaries of what is possible in rotational moulding. By integrating the latest technologies and creative solutions, we remain at the forefront of the industry. Our teams work closely together to develop innovative designs that meet the specific needs of our customers. From concept to production, we are constantly exploring and implementing new materials and techniques to make products more efficient, sustainable, and functional.
Innovation
Innovation in knowledge retention: The role of augmented realityWithin the manufacturing industry, we face a crucial challenge: retaining our expertise. In collaboration with Saxion University of Applied Sciences, the University of Twente, and other partners, we are making a significant step forward by integrating augmented reality (AR) into our processes. This initiative aims to capture and transfer essential knowledge within our organization.
Innovation
Handyscan 3D Max: Precision in production, mold making, and quality controlAt the beginning of this year, we at Pentas made a technological leap by integrating the Handyscan 3D Max into our operational processes, achieved with the expert support of EMS Benelux. This state-of-the-art 3D scanner, which excels with an accuracy of up to 0.15 mm, is crucial for delivering demanding products to customers.
Innovation
New innovative manufacturing process brings ideas into shape even more effectivelyPentas Moulding B.V. relies on state-of-the-art milling technology from Fooke and saves 50% of the machining time in the production of aluminum moulds.
Innovation
Pentas continues to expand its machineryWe will receive and install a new rotational moulding machine from Reinhardt. This will be an expansion of our existing machinery.
Innovation
Efficiency thanks to robotsThe high quality of Pentas’ rotational moulding is realised by our staff and our robots.
Sustainability
We are committed to sustainable production by continuously monitoring the environmental impact of our processes. Almost all of our waste streams are reused. In addition, we continue to innovate to make our products stronger, lighter, and more environmentally friendly.
Sustainability
Solar Panels at Pentas: Four Years Later
Sustainability
Saving energy at the drawing boardAbout Pentas
At Pentas, everything revolves around dedication and craftsmanship in rotational moulding. As a leading specialist in the industry, we offer innovative and customized solutions for a wide range of applications. With decades of experience and deep technical expertise, we have built a reputation for delivering high-quality products that meet the strict requirements of our customers.
Pentas
Knowledge exchange during the Rototour 2024The past two weeks were entirely focused on knowledge exchange and strengthening the rotational moulding industry. During the Rototour 2024 in Brazil, rotational moulders from around the world gathered to share ideas and visit local moulders. In this article, we share our key insights and experiences from this intensive and inspiring journey full of valuable encounters.
Pentas
Which rotational moulding machines do we have?At Pentas, we use various rotational moulding machines to meet the diverse needs of our customers. Our facility is equipped with 10 carousel machines and 1 advanced Rock and Roll machine, together providing a wide range of production capabilities.
Pentas
TÜV certification for plastic fuel tanksObtaining a TÜV certification for plastic fuel tanks is a process that assesses both the quality of the end product and the manufacturing process itself. TÜV is an internationally recognized certification body based in Berlin. They test and evaluate the safety and quality of products, systems, and services.
Pentas
Our history at a glanceFor half a century, Pentas has been at the forefront of innovation, manufacturing the most complex products through rotational molding for a wide range of customers. Our extensive experience has created a treasure trove of history, ranging from producing surfboards to realizing an award-winning plastic tank for CLAAS. We are eager to share more about all our highlights in 50 years of Pentas.
Pentas
Pentas Welcomes status holdersThursday, February 8th - Today, we welcomed a group of 50 status holders and civic integration teachers at Pentas Moulding. In collaboration with the ROC of Twente, Aqua+, Novon, Kleurrijk & Niverplast, we organized for the third time a company tour along various enterprises in Twente.
Pentas
Pentas Welcomes ROC Teachers TourLast Thursday it was time: the teachers' tour organized by the ROC of Twente. During the tour, various Twente companies that offer opportunities to status holders, welcomed integration teachers and client managers from the municipalities of Almelo, Wierden, and Rijssen.
Rotomoulding glossary
Frequently asked questions about rotational moulding
What is rotational moulding and how does it work?
Rotational moulding is a manufacturing process used to create hollow plastic parts. In this process, a mould, also known as a die, is filled with plastic powder. The mould is then heated while being rotated on two axes. This ensures that the material melts and evenly coats the inside of the mould, resulting in a strong, seamless part. After that, the mould is moved to a cooling station, where it continues to rotate while being cooled, allowing the plastic inside to harden. The final step occurs at the demoulding station, where the mould is opened and the hollow product is removed. From here, the process begins again.
What materials can be used in rotational moulding?
Polyethylene (PE) is the most commonly used material in rotational moulding due to its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and excellent processability. PE has a wide melting range, making it ideal for rotational moulding as it allows for even melting and good flow during the moulding process. Additionally, PE offers excellent properties such as chemical resistance, durability, and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of products.
In addition to PE, other materials can be used, such as polypropylene (PP), nylon (PA), polycarbonate (PC), and PVC. Within these plastic groups, there are different variants, each with unique properties such as color, impact resistance, and aging resistance.
What are the main advantages of rotational moulding?
Rotational moulding offers several advantages, including low investment costs for moulds and tools, leading to low production costs for small to medium runs, up to tens of thousands per year. It allows for the creation of complex and large shapes, ensures uniform wall thickness, and results in minimal material waste. Additionally, hollow and fully enclosed parts can be easily produced.
How does wall thickness affect the strength and cost of the product?
The wall thickness of a rotationally moulded part is crucial for both its strength and cost. Thicker walls increase the strength and durability of the product but also raise material costs. It is important to determine the optimal wall thickness to meet functional requirements without incurring unnecessary expenses. A smart product design, based on how the product will be used, can help optimize this. By incorporating ribs or kiss-offs, the forces exerted on the product can be better distributed, reducing the need for excess wall thickness or material.
What problems can occur in rotational moulding and how can they be solved?
Problems such as warping, poor impact resistance, and uneven wall thickness can occur during the rotational moulding process. These issues can often be resolved by adjusting the process, such as optimizing heating and cooling times, or by selecting more suitable materials and additives.
What are the design considerations for rotationally moulded parts?
When designing rotationally moulded products, it is important to avoid sharp corners, ensure uniform wall thickness, and place inserts and ribs strategically for added strength. This helps reduce stress and improves the durability and reliability of the final product.
How important is material selection in rotational moulding?
Material selection is critical because it determines the processing parameters, mechanical properties, and chemical resistance of the final product. It is essential to choose a material that is suitable for the specific application and environmental conditions.
What are common applications of rotational moulding?
Rotational moulding is used in a wide range of applications, including water tanks, air ducts, containers/packaging, and industrial housings. The process is particularly suitable for producing large, complex, and hollow parts.
What are the requirements for mould design in rotational moulding?
Moulds for rotational moulding must withstand high temperatures and have a non-porous surface to ensure a smooth final product. They should also be designed for easy opening to remove the moulded part without damage. Over time, design changes may be necessary, and if the mould is of high quality, these changes can be incorporated into the existing mould, saving costs by avoiding the need for a new mould.