What is Thermoforming?
First in the Thermoforming process we start with an extruded sheet of plastic. Next, we heat the sheet, enabling us to shape it with various forces. The molds form only one side of the sheet, which is the controlled surface. Following the molding process, we have a formed part, which is still in the sheet of plastic (flashing). The next step is a trim operation. Finally, depending upon the specific part, there may be a variety of assembly processes employed.
Main Plastic Molding Processes
What is thermoforming? All these processes utilize some form of pressure, each one progressing to a greater degree.
| parameters | DRAPE | VACUUM | PRESSURE | TWIN SHEET |
| pressure applied | GRAVITY | ONE ATMOSPHERE | UP TO 5 ATMOSPHERES | UP TO 5 ATMOSPHERES |
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| EXAMPLES |  LEARN MORE |  LEARN MORE |  LEARN MORE |  LEARN MORE |
Other Important Features That Contribute To Process Control:
- Infrared and “sag eye” control to ensure consistent heat distribution across complex geometries
- Each part is individually programmed to optimize repeatable quality
- Heating elements are ceramic for long and predictable life
- Machines are PLC controlled for repeatable operation flexibility of molding techniques
- Raw materials stored in temperature and humidity controlled environment to minimize process variables
Thermoforming Resins We Are Experienced With
We are not afraid to try any thermoformable resin, and have the experience and equipment to do that.
What is thermoforming? Listed below are the main resin groups with which we have worked, and are familiar. However, keep in mind that there are many variations within these resin families. These variations include such things as UV stability, high heat resistance, flame and smoke inhibitors. Additionally, we have availability of an infinite range of colors and textures.
- Kydex (Acrylic PVC)
- Kydex-V
- Kydex-V103
- Kydex-T
- Kydex-T MB
- Kydex-100
- Kydex-2200LT
- Kydex-6565
- Kydex-5555
- Kydex-7200ST
- Kydex-FST
- Polyphenolsulfone (PPSU) (Radel)
- Polycarbonate (Lexan)
- ABS
- Fire Retardant ABS Family (ABS PVC Alloys)
- High Impact Styrene
- High Molecular and High Density Polyethylene
- Acrylic
- PETG
- Anti-static PETG
- Polyurethane
- Thermoplastic Olefins (TPO)
- Thermoplastic Urethanes (TPU)
- Polyethermide (PEI) (Ultem)
- PVC
- Polypropylene
Furthermore, we can obtain fire retardant, low smoke and food grade variants of many of the above materials. Let us help you select the appropriate material for your project!
Thermoforming Equipment List
- 6 x 11 Maac 3 Station Rotary Twin-Sheet/Pressure Thermoformer
- 5 x 9 Maac 4 Station Rotary Twin-Sheet/Pressure Thermoformer
- 5 x 7 Maac 3 Station Rotary Twin-Sheet/Pressure Thermoformer
- 4 x 6 Maac 3 Station Pressure Thermoformer
- 4 x 6 Maac Shuttle Twin-Sheet/Pressure Thermoformer
- 3 x 5 AAA shuttle Vacuum/Pressure Thermoformer
