Thermoforming OR Vacuum Forming
Thermoforming or vacuum forming creates custom parts by heating a plastic sheet; pulling it
tightly against a mold corresponding to the desired shape; and allowing the sheet to
cool. Thermoforming has these properties:
|
Possible
shapes |
3D shapes where the sides are sloped (like a
plastic drinking cup) so that the formed part can be removed from the mold. |
|
Example
parts |
Trays, enclosures, cups, cup lids |
|
Advantages |
Low cost for moderate to long runs |
|
Compatible
materials |
Certain plastics |
|
Compatible
machines |
Vacuum
mold die cut |
|
Alternative
machines |
None |
|
Tooling |
You can choose positive (male) or negative
(female) molding. In positive molds the heated material is stretched over the mold and
hence the inner side is more accurate. In negative molds the heated material is pressed
into the mold and hence the outer side is more accurate. |
|
Precautions |
None |
When using vacuum forming you design the mold tooling, not the part.
For example, to create a part shaped like a drinking cup you would create a mold
shaped like a cylinder.
Notes: The thickness of the sheet material will vary at different points of the
part due to the stretching that occurs. The part must not be much higher than it is wide.
|
Thermoforming Machine |
Thermoforming Sample Part |
|
|
 |
Applications
Thermoformed plastic is ideal for creating
"clamshell" plastic containers for the retail environment, as shown in
the sample above right.
As you design a thermoform display package,
remember that you can ""sandwich in" a colorful thin cardboard retail
display piece which may help sell your product. It's a good ideas
to consult with your retailers about ideal sizes in advance and design
your packaging to get you best shelf position. Small tools and
electronic devices are often packaged this way.
Note: This process is planned and currently not supported.
Processes: Turning
Milling
Laser Cutting
Water Jet Cutting
Wire EDM
Tapping
Bending
Turret Punching
Fine Blanking
Blanking
Steel Rule Die Cutting
Drawing
Injection Molding
Extrusion
Metal Casting
Thermoforming
Forging
Springs
Wire forming
Powder Coating
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