One of the most Vacuum Forming common plastic fabrication methods, Vacuum forming is used to create a wide range of products by applying heat and vacuum suction to shape polymer sheets over molds.
Vacuum Forming Procedure
To produce a vacuum-formed product, the plastic sheet is first placed into a frame and heated until it becomes soft. Once the material is ready, it is laid over a pattern, and a vacuum is applied to pull the material tightly over the mold, achieving the desired shape.
After forming, the material is solidified to retain its shape. The final product is then trimmed to remove unwanted material and finished for use.
Where Vacuum Forming is Used
Vacuum forming finds its applications in sectors such as aerospace for creating customized plastic parts. Some frequent products made using vacuum forming include:
- Vehicle interior panels
- Blister packs
- Hospital trays
- Store signage
Why Choose Vacuum Forming?
One of the biggest pros of vacuum forming is its cost-effectiveness. Other notable benefits include:
- Quick turnaround
- Low-cost tooling
- Customizable shapes
- Durability
Summary
Vacuum forming is a effective process that facilitates the creation of high-quality plastic products at a low cost.