One-Step vs Two-Step Bottle Blowing Machines: A Comprehensive Comparison

IIntroduction

For most people who are new to the plastic bottle production industry, choosing one-step (single-stage) or two-step (two-stage) bottle blowing machines is a choice that everyone has to face. Both methods transform PET materials into bottles, but their workflows, production,applications, and outcomes differ vastly. This article breaks down their processes, bottle quality, production efficiency, and ideal use cases, helping businesses make informed decisions. 

How one-step and two-step bottle blowing machine working?

One-Step Blowing Machines (Single-Stage)

Also called Injection Stretch Blow Molding (ISBM), this method integrates preform creation and bottle blowing in one machine.
Key Steps:

  1. Preform Injection: PET resin is melted and injected into a preform mold.

  2. Conditioning: The hot preform is cooled to ~120°C but remains semi-molten.

  3. Blowing: The preform is transferred to a blow mold, stretched vertically with a rod, and expanded horizontally using high-pressure air.
    Result: A finished bottle in one continuous cycle.
    Advantage: Eliminates reheating, saving energy and time19.

Two-Step Blowing Machines (Two-Stage)

This method used stretch bottle blowing machine separates preform production and bottle blowing into two distinct stages.
Key Steps:

  1. Preform Injection: A separate injection machine creates preforms, which are cooled to room temperature.

  2. Reheating: Preforms are reheated in a stretch blow molding (SBM) machine.

  3. Blowing: The reheated preforms are stretched and blowing the PET preform into bottles.
    Result: Bottles produced after two independent processes.
    Advantage: Flexible production scheduling (e.g., preforms can be stored for later use)

Bottle Quality: Which Method Delivers Better Results?

FactorOne-Step MachinesTwo-Step Machines
Surface FinishSmoother, scratch-free (no handling between stages)Risk of minor surface flaws (preforms may collide during storage/transport)
Wall ThicknessLess uniform (limited reheating control)Highly uniform (precise reheating adjustments)
Design ComplexityIdeal for intricate shapes (cosmetic bottles,香水瓶)Limited to simple designs (round, lightweight bottles)
Material CompatibilityPET, PP, HDPE, PC, PENPrimarily PET (optimized for mass production)

Why It Matters:

  • One-step excels in high-end packaging (e.g.,Perfume Bottle) where aesthetics and design matter

  • Two-step ensures consistent quality for high-volume, lightweight bottles (e.g., water bottles)

Production Efficiency: Speed vs Flexibility (one-stage and two-stage bottle blowing machine

One-Step Machines

  • Speed: Moderate output (8,000–10,000 bottles/hour).

  • Downtime: Longer mold changeovers (30–60 minutes)9.

  • Labor: Requires skilled operators (must troubleshoot injection and blowing issues)1.

Two-Step Machines

  • Speed: High output (up to 13,000+ bottles/hour).

  • Downtime: Faster mold swaps (15 minutes).

  • Scalability: Preforms can be stockpiled during off-seasons, ensuring uninterrupted production9.

Key Takeaway: Two-step machines dominate high-capacity production (e.g., beverage industries), while one-step suits smaller, specialized batches

Application Scenarios: Where Each Machine Shines

One-Step Machines Are Best For:

  • Premium Products: Cosmetic bottles,Perfume Bottle, medical containers (flawless finish)

  • Complex Designs: Unique neck shapes designs

  • Multi-Material Production: Switching materials (e.g., PET to PP) without extra equipment

Two-Step Machines Are Best For:

  • Mass Production: Water bottles, soda bottles, and other lightweight containers.

  • Cost-Sensitive Projects: Lower upfront costs and energy savings (20–30% less power than one-step)6.

  • Seasonal Demand: Preform stockpiling avoids idle machinery during low seasons

Why Two-Step PET Bottle Blowing Machines Are Recommended for Most Beverage manufacturers

 While one-step machines excel in niche markets, two-step PET bottle  blowing machine offer broader advantages:

  1. Cost Efficiency:

    • Lower initial investment (no integrated injection unit).

    • Reduced material waste (5–7% savings via precise heating).

  2. Operational Flexibility:

    • Compatible with purchased preforms (no in-house injection needed).

    • Easy integration with filling lines (e.g.,baverage filling machine).

  3. Sustainability:

    • Energy-efficient reheating (vs. one-step’s constant heat cycles).

    • Supports lightweighting (thinner walls without compromising strength).

Conclusion:

For businesses prioritizing high volume, cost savings, and versatility, two-step bottle blowing machines are unmatched. Brands like Faygo Union offer reliable two-stage systems with 1–8 cavity, producing 200ml–20L bottles efficiently. Whether bottling water, juices, or sauces, this method balances speed, quality, and sustainability—making it the future-proof choice for growing enterprises.

Need a Quote? Contact suppliers today to explore how two-step machines can streamline your production!

2024 Hot Sale High-speed 16000bph Water bottle blowing machine

 3 in 1 Linear Blowing-Filling -Capping-machine Combiblock

20+ Professional Engineer Customize your Machine

Submit your request below