5. (a) (i) Name any two of the plastic manufacturing processes shown at A, B and C - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question 5 - 2022

Blow Moulding

Blow moulding is a process used to produce hollow plastic shapes. The process begins with a parison, which is a tube-like piece of plastic.

1. A parison is extruded and inserted into a two-piece mould.
2. The mould closes around the parison.
3. Air is blown into the parison, forcing it to expand and take the shape of the mould.
4. The mould is then cooled, and the finished product is ejected from the mould.

The following diagram illustrates the blow moulding process:

   (Diagram would be placed here)  

1. Thermosetting plastics: These are plastics that undergo a chemical change when heated, making them hard and rigid. Once set, they cannot be remoulded.
2. Thermoplastics: These plastics soften when heated and can be reshaped multiple times, making them flexible and reusable.
3. Fibreglass: Fibreglass is a composite material made from woven glass fibres and resin. It is known for its strength and durability due to the combination of materials used.

1. Seat belts: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) could be used for seat belts due to its strength and flexibility.
2. Dashboard: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a suitable plastic for dashboards as it is durable and heat resistant.