TECH NOTE: Robomold® + Hostaform®

PROCESSING WITH ROBOMOLD^® TECHNOLOGY

Hostaform® POM RF can be used with traditional molding techniques but performs best when utilized with Robomold® robotic rotational molding. The primary reason for this is that Robomold® Technology perfectly controls and disperses Hostaform® POM RF in the molding process. Because Robomold® is automated, Gemstar’s design engineers can use high-precision temperature control during the molding process that allows for the perfect forming of the Hostaform® POM RF material. This process is more precise and allows for optimized material usage, reducing processing time by up to 50% to produce a tank compared to other rotational molding methods. These factors result in more consistency and overall, higher quality product than traditional molding methods.

DESIGN FLEXIBILITY

The use of Hostaform® POM RF with Robomold® robotic molding technology offers unparalleled design flexibility. This includes:

• Ability to create unique geometries (Image 2) and variable wall thicknesses (Images 3 & 4)
• Obtain excellent definition of molded in threads (Images 5 & 6) resulting in significant scrap reduction 
• Generate higher stiffness and heat deflection temperatures than polyethylene’s and some nylons leading to design flexibility in pressurized vessels
• Eliminates the need to hydrate molded parts and scrapping wet resin due to exposure to moisture
• Creates product in black or natural color, as well as a high capacity for accepting custom colors
• Hostaform® POM RF offers a sustainable ECO-B option containing up to 97% bio-content via the ISCC+ certified mass-balance approach

Images 3 & 4: Direct heat flow allows for varying wall thicknesses, even within the same wall.

Image 5 & 6: Heat flow could be focused on the appropriate area for improved material dispersion to create improved threading.

EPA AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Hostaform® POM RF’s low permeation and toughened POM delivers and unprecedented balance of impact and durability performance required for manufacturers to meet EPA regulations including U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations for SORE and other fuel systems. Additionally, Hostaform® POM RF products manufactured by Robomold® Technology pass UV testing, aging, application-specific drop tests, and ABYC HY24 flammability and shock testing.

Hostaform® POM RF is a trademark of Celanese or its affiliates, used under license by Hoechst GmbH, used by Celanese Corporation under license.

LEARN MORE

To learn more about the use of Hostaform® POM RF, check out the case study: Specialized Fuel Tank Made with Robomold Technology.

ABOUT GEMSTAR MANUFACTURING

Gemstar Manufacturing is an engineering-based solutions provider with 60 years of manufacturing experience and knowledge. The company is a family-owned business supported internally by long-term employees. The firm’s history is rooted in custom manufacturing and the dedication of a customer-centric organization. Gemstar’s mission is “to test the limits of plastic manufacturing and exceed the expectations of customers,” which is shown through their dedication to provide value add solutions to customers through innovative design and technology.

ABOUT CELANESE ENGINEERED MATERIALS

CELANESE - THE CHEMISTRY INSIDE INNOVATION™

Celanese Corporation is a global chemical leader in the production of differentiated chemistry solutions and specialty materials used in most major industries and consumer applications. Our businesses use the full breadth of Celanese’s global chemistry, technology and commercial expertise to create value for our customers, employees, shareholders and the corporation. As we partner with our customers to solve their most critical business needs, we strive to make a positive impact on our communities and the world through The Celanese Foundation. For more information about Celanese Corporation and its product offerings, visit www.celanese.com.

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