What is Thermoforming?

Thermoforming is a manufacturing process using thermoplastic sheet or film that is heated between heaters to its forming temperature. The material is then stretched over or onto a temperature-controlled, single-surface metal mold. It is held against the mold surface with vacuuming and air pressure until cooled. The formed part is then trimmed from the sheet. The sheet trim is usually reground, mixed with virgin plastic, and reprocessed into useable sheet.

Advantages of Thermoforming:

• IM Quality
• Low cost
• Short lead time
• Requires less space; stackable
• Speedy tooling build cycle
• Ideal for small batch production
• Extensive choice of patterns, finishes and textures
• Ability to produce thin-walled parts