Vacuum forming is a widely used thermoplastic molding process that involves heating a polymer sheet until it becomes soft, then using vacuum pressure to mold it over a pre-formed mold.
Step-by-Step Vacuum Forming Process
To create a vacuum-formed product, the plastic sheet is first mounted into a frame and heated until it becomes flexible. Once the material is ready, it is draped over a mold, and a vacuum is applied to draw the material tightly over the mold, ensuring the intended shape.
After forming, the material is cooled to retain its shape. The final product is then trimmed to remove unwanted material and prepared for assembly.
Industries Using Vacuum Forming
Vacuum forming finds its benefits in markets such as aerospace for creating durable plastic parts. Some frequent products made using vacuum forming include:
- Car dashboards
- Plastic packaging
- Hospital trays
- Retail displays
Benefits of Vacuum Molding
One of the biggest benefits of vacuum forming is its cost-effectiveness. Other significant benefits include:
- Quick turnaround
- Low-cost tooling
- Flexibility in design
- Durability
Conclusion
Vacuum forming is a versatile process that enables the creation of durable plastic products at a competitive price.
Vacuum Forming