Plastic cup making equipment (usually referred to as molding equipment, injection molding machines and other plastic molding equipment) can produce various types of plastic cups. The specific type depends on the process of the equipment, mold design and the plastic raw materials used. Here are some common types of plastic cups and their characteristics:
1.By Molding Process
Injection Molded Cups:
Features: Plastic melt is injected into molding cavity by injection molding machine, then removed after cooling. The cup body wall thickness uniform, the surface is smooth, may produce complex shape (such as handle or thread end).
Purpose: Disposable water cups, coffee cups, beverage cups with lid, etc.
Blow Molded Cups:
Features: Molten plastic preforms (flower shapes) are placed in the mold, inflated with compressed air to fit inside the mold, cooled and removed. The cups have thinner walls, are lighter and cost less.
Purpose: Disposable beverage cups, yogurt cups, juice cups, etc.
Blister Cups:
Features: Plastic sheet is heated and softened with a vacuum molding machine and then glued to the mold surface to form a cup. Cups with thinner walls and higher transparency are often used in food packaging.
Purpose: Jelly cups, dessert cups, disposable lunch boxes, etc.
2. By Material
Polypropylene (PP) cups:
Features: High temperature resistance (above 120°C), non-toxic and tasteless, good chemical stability, commonly used in hot beverages cup.
Uses: coffee cup, milk tea cup, microwave safe cup, etc.
Polyethylene (PE) cups:
Features: Good flexibility, low temperature resistance, but low heat resistance (generally not more than 80°C).
Uses: Cold beverage cups, disposable water cups, etc.
Polystyrene (PS) Cups:
Features: High transparency, hardness, but relatively brittle, poor heat resistance (generally not exceeding 70°C).
Uses: Cold beverages cup, jelly cups, disposable tableware etc..
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) Cups:
Features: high transparency, strength, oil and chemical resistance, commonly used in carbonated beverage cups.
Uses: Coke cup, juice cups, sports water bottles, etc.
Polycarbonate (PC) cups:
Features: Good impact resistance, transparency, temperature resistance (can withstand temperatures above 130°C), but relatively high price.
Uses: sports water bottles, baby bottles, high grade drinking cup, etc..
3. By function
Disposable Plastic Cups:
Features: Lightweight, small size, low cost, generally made of PP, PE or PS materials, suitable for short-term use.
Applications: Fast food, takeout, parties, etc.
Reusable Plastic Cups:
Features: More durable material (e.g. PC, PP), thicker cup walls, rewashable and reusable.
Application scope: Home, office, sports, etc.
Plastic cups with lids:
Features: cup body and cup cover by injection molding or blow molding processes, good sealing, prevent liquid leakage.
Uses: Coffee cup, milk tea cup, portable water bottles, etc.
Insulated Plastic Cups:
Features: double structure or vacuum insulation design, plastic outer layer, stainless steel or plastic inner layer, excellent heat retention performance.
Applications: Outdoor activities, tourism, office environment, etc.
4. By Shape
Straight Cup:
Features: Cylindrical body, simple structure, easy to manufacture.
Uses: Disposable water cups, beverage cups, etc.
Conical cups:
Features: Conical body, small base, large top, easy to stack and carry.
Purpose: Disposable cold drink cups, jelly cups, etc.
Irregularly shaped cups:
Features: Complex shape (e.g., heart, square, animal), production requires precision molds.
Applications: Promotional activities, children's products, gift packaging, etc..
