Published Updated 5 min read
Choose the machine before you compare prices
Two blow molding machines with the same container size can differ in price several times over. The difference comes from the process, the number of stations and cavities, the drive system and the automation around the machine. This guide explains each factor, lists the Tongda models for each container size, and shows what to send so your quotation reflects the machine you actually need.
Which blow molding process fits your product?
- Extrusion blow molding (EBM): HDPE and PP bottles, jerry cans, drums, IBC tanks, water tanks and technical parts with handles or irregular shapes. This is the process Tongda builds.
- Injection blow molding (IBM): small, precise bottles such as pharmaceutical and cosmetic containers.
- Stretch blow molding (SBM): PET beverage bottles and jars made from preforms.
If your product has a handle, a large volume or a thick wall, extrusion blow molding is usually the right choice. See extrusion vs injection vs stretch blow molding for a fuller comparison.
Tongda blow molding machines by container size
Container volume sets the clamping force, platen size and die head, so it is the first filter when you look at machines for sale.
| Container size | Typical products | Tongda models |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 5 L | Daily chemical bottles, milk bottles, motor oil bottles | HTS II-2L, HTS II-5L, HS II-5L, HSE-5L, HSE II-5L |
| 8 to 15 L | Jerry cans, lubricant containers | HTS II-8L, HTS II-12L, HS-12L, HSE-12L, HS II-15L, TDB-10F |
| 20 to 50 L | Chemical drums, stackable buckets | TDB-25F, HS-30L, HS II-30L, HSE-30L, TDB-50F |
| 120 to 350 L | Open-top and closed drums, large parts | TDB-120F, TDB-250F/P, TDW-350F |
| 1,000 L and above | IBC tanks, water tanks | TDB-1000L, TDB-1200L, TDB-1200F/P, HT-1500L |
Browse every series in the blow molding machine catalogue, or start from your product on the applications page.
What drives blow molding machine price
1. Container size and clamping force
Larger containers need heavier platens, higher clamping force and a bigger die head. A machine for 1,000 L IBC tanks needs a far larger frame and die head than a 5 L bottle machine, so the step between size classes is the largest single price factor.
2. Stations, cavities and die heads
A single station machine is the lower investment. A double station machine moves two moulds under one die head and raises output for the same floor space. Multi-cavity die heads multiply output again for small bottles. Compare the cost per finished container, not only the machine price.
3. Drive system
| Drive | Best suited to | Series |
|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic | Proven, lower purchase price, wide size range | Hydraulic machines |
| Servo hydraulic | Lower energy use than a conventional pump with similar force | Servo machines |
| Fully electric | Clean, quiet and precise production of small and medium containers | Fully electric machines |
A servo or fully electric machine costs more to buy and less to run. Ask for the energy consumption per hour for your own product when you compare offers.
4. Parison and wall thickness control
The number of parison control points decides how evenly material is distributed and how much resin you save per part. It matters most for drums, jerry cans and tanks with thick corners. Read how wall thickness control works.
5. Automation and auxiliary equipment
Automatic deflashing, leak testing, take-out robots and conveyors raise the machine price and lower labour cost. A complete line also needs moulds, a chiller, an air compressor and a crusher for recycled material. See ancillary equipment.
6. Moulds, delivery and service
Mould count and complexity, shipping, installation, operator training and spare parts are often quoted separately. Check what each offer includes before comparing totals.
New or used blow molding machine?
A used machine costs less up front, but its parison control, energy use and spare part supply depend on its age and history. A new machine is built around your container and resin, ships with moulds made for it, and comes with installation and training. If you are comparing both, ask for the hourly output and energy use for your actual product.
How to get an accurate quotation
Send these details and Tongda engineers can recommend a model and quote the complete line:
- A drawing, photo or sample of the container
- Volume, weight and material (HDPE, PP or other)
- Required output per hour or per year
- Power supply: voltage and frequency
- Automation you need: deflashing, leak testing, conveyors
Request a quotation or read 12 checks before buying a blow molding machine from China.
How much does a blow molding machine cost?
The price depends on container size, number of stations and cavities, drive system and automation. A small single station machine for bottles and a 1,000 L machine for IBC tanks sit in very different price ranges. Tongda does not publish a price list. Machines are customized, and the quotation follows your drawing. Send the drawing through the contact page.
Is there a public price list?
No. There is no public price list. A machine is quoted after Tongda has the container drawing, because the machine is customized to that product.
What is the difference between a machine price and a full line?
A machine and a full line are not the same quotation. A line can add auxiliary equipment, molds, conveyors and a leak tester. The quotation states which of those are included.
What drives the cost if there is no price list?
Cost follows the container volume class, the number of stations and die heads, the drive (hydraulic, servo hydraulic or fully electric) and the automation around the machine. Tongda does not publish sample prices.
Which blow molding machine is right for HDPE bottles and jerry cans?
For HDPE and PP containers with handles, use an extrusion blow molding machine. Double station HTS II and HS II models suit bottles up to 5 L and jerry cans up to 15 L. See how to choose the right extrusion blow molding machine.
Can I see the machine running before I buy?
Yes. Customers are welcome to visit the Tongda factory in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu, to see machines in production.
Buyer guides
Warranty, spare parts and after-sales states the 14-month warranty and how parts are supplied. Factory acceptance and payment covers the factory checks and the 30% / 70% split. Real output versus the model name explains why a volume class is not pieces per hour. Plant utilities is the pre-install list without a power or air table.
