One of the most Vacuum Forming common plastic fabrication methods, Vacuum forming is used to create various products by applying heat and vacuum suction to shape plastic sheets over molds.
Vacuum Forming Procedure
The process starts with a thermoplastic material being heated until it reaches the required forming temperature. Once the material is ready, it is draped over a pattern, and a vacuum is applied to pull the material tightly over the mold, achieving the intended shape.
Once molded, the formed part is allowed to cool before cutting the excess plastic. The final product is then trimmed to remove unwanted material and processed for distribution.
Industries Using Vacuum Forming
This technique is widely used in numerous industries, including packaging, to produce specialized components. Some common products made using vacuum forming include:
- Automotive parts
- Clamshell containers
- Hospital trays
- Store signage
Why Choose Vacuum Forming?
Vacuum forming is a fast method for producing custom plastic parts with minimal initial investment. Other notable benefits include:
- Quick turnaround
- Low-cost tooling
- Flexibility in design
- Strength-to-weight ratio
Conclusion
For businesses looking for an affordable plastic manufacturing solution, vacuum forming provides a highly adaptable option.