When you’re looking to purchase a cooler, you’ll discover quickly the many different options available on the market today. Mostly, you’ll find different types of coolers based on their manufacturing processes. Rotomolding and injection molding are two such classifications.Let’s first break down and define the term “rotomolded” as it relates to cooler design. We’ll then be able to distinguish what sets rotomolded coolers apart from the rest. Then, you’ll be fully prepared for the best camping, hiking, fishing, little league, soccer games, grilling, and every other outdoor adventure your life throws your way.
What Is a Rotomolded Cooler?
The term rotomolded refers to a specific type of plastic container that is molded using an injection molding process. Injection molding involves injecting molten plastic into a mold that has been prepared for this purpose. The plastic coolers discussed in this article are all rotomolded, which means they are made from high-quality polyethylene plastic.Rotomolded or rotational molding is a molding process used to create hollow parts or double-walled containers such as coolers or kayaks out of plastic. Rotational molding is a cost-effective way of producing plastic parts.Rotational molding describes a process in which resin, added to a mold, undergoes simultaneous heating and rotating. This process allows the resin, or unprocessed plastic, to take the shape of the mold. The most favorable outcome is consistent uniform wall thickness with extra material padded around the corners for shock absorption.
So, why does this matter for coolers?
Rotational molding is famous for creating the highest quality of coolers because it creates perfect evenness every time. As the plastic constantly undergoes rotation during the process, each wall of the newly minted rotomolded cooler is experiencing the same levels of heat, resulting in a consistent thickness all around.
This is important for a cooler because it means that each side is equally protected from any external forces such as outside temperatures or unwanted visitors. Plus, it means that your food and drink will stay equally cold no matter which side of the cooler or divider they end up on. This is because the cooler insulation is evenly distributed throughout the cooler.
What Are the Advantages of a Rotomolded Cooler?
Several characteristics unique to the rotomolded cooler set it apart from other coolers on the market. Rotomolded coolers excel in keeping ice, are cost-effective, and are more eco-friendly than their peers.
Here are just four of the many reasons why you need a rotomolded cooler in your life:
- Rotomolded Coolers Are Best For Retaining Ice – Rotomolded coolers are built with uniformly thick walls, resulting in optimal temperature retention. These coolers are known for offering unparalleled insulation, keeping their contents fresh and cold.
- Rotomolded Coolers Save Money in the Long Run – One of the advantages of the rotomolded cooler is that it is highly durable. Made from material that is built to last, these coolers can endure even the toughest of terrain and weather conditions.While rotomolded coolers are pricier than other coolers on the market, they will stand the test of time. The durability of the rotomolded cooler makes it the best investment for long-term use.What is the best cooler for the money? That’s easy – rotomolded coolers.
- Rotomolded Coolers Are the More Eco-Friendly Option – Among the other methods of plastic manufacturing, rotomolding is one of the most energy-efficient and environmentally conscious methods. Rotational molding releases no dangerous toxins or chemicals into the air during the process, making this the best choice for your family and the environment.
- Rotomolded Coolers Are the Most Durable – Rotomolded cooler walls are thicker than other cooler walls, making them stand up against tough conditions. Since rotomolded coolers are crafted in one hollow piece, they are durable and more resistant to cracking than other types of coolers.Compare this to coolers made through the injection-molding process; they are made in two pieces and then fit together with insulation. This creates lines that can more easily be broken or cracked.
Why Use Rotomolded Coolers?
Rotomolded coolers are hard-sided ice chests that are durable and great for ice retention. While they tend to be heavier and not as easily transported, they are great for withstanding long-term use. While also providing opportunities for several other uses – other than keeping your food and drinks cold.Rotomolded coolers with durable, insulated walls are ideal for maximizing your ice retention. These ice chests are also built with larger capacities, making them the perfect ice chest for families or large gatherings.
How do I choose a cooler?The cooler should be sufficient to store all the food and drinks you’ll need. For day trips, consider a cooler smaller than 45 quarts. It is best to keep the size of the cooler to a minimum as dictated by your needs.If you decide to go with a rotomolded cooler, check if it has an insulated lid and seals tightly when closed. Most cooling is lost through the lid. Models skimping on such features will not compete with models that do. Another beneficial feature found on most coolers is a drain plug to quickly empty melted ice.
What Is Injection Molding?
When it comes to hard-sided coolers, there are two major manufacturing categories: rotomolded and injection molded.Injection molding is a process that injects heated plastic into a mold and then cools it so that it takes the shape of the mold. This process is popular for mass production because the same mold can be reused consistently.However, injection molding cannot produce hollow pieces the way that the rotomolding process does.Injection molding creates two separate shells that need to be fused together with insulated foam. These materials, while lightweight, are more likely to crack or separate, making them vulnerable to bumps or drops. Thin walls of injection-molded coolers also make for less-than-optimal ice retention.Overall, rotomolded coolers are more durable because they are constructed in one piece. The areas of fusion for injection-molded coolers are more susceptible to cracking and breaking.
Rotomolded Cooler Options From Kenai Coolers
At Kenai Coolers, we offer three sizes of rotomolded coolers: 25QT, 45QT, and 65QT. If the walls of a cooler aren’t uniform in thickness, the strength and durability of that cooler are questionable at best. Our coolers are built with rotationally-molded LLDPE plastic to ensure even wall thickness, durability, and max performance on every adventure.
Dry ice compatible, dry Ice delivers long-lasting cooling. So, it makes sense that Kenai Coolers are made to work with dry ice. Use our rotomolded made-in-the-USA coolers exclusively with dry ice or mix with cubed ice to deliver the cooling performance you’re looking for.
A cooler isn’t cool if it doesn’t keep things cold. Kenai Cooler lids seal for optimal insulation even in hot temperatures with a silicone rubber gasket to keep cold air trapped inside to extend the life of the ice. Everything for your adventures stays colder, fresher, and longer.
Carrying a loaded ice chest isn’t on anyone’s list of favorite things to do. But, this chore is made easier with built-in molded handles. Just one of two carry options with the Kenai cooler dual handle system.
Rotomolded Coolers Are The Best Choice
Are rotomolded coolers really better?
Yes. The result is a product that contains seamless parts with a uniform wall thickness with more material in corners to absorb shocks and stresses where they occur most often. For example, a rotomolded cooler benefits from the rotomolding process resulting in a leak-proof seeable container.
