One of the versatile plastic Vacuum Forming fabrication methods, Vacuum forming is used to create a wide range of products by using heat and vacuum suction to shape thermoplastic materials over molds.
How Vacuum Forming Works
The process begins with a plastic sheet being softened until it reaches the required forming temperature. Once the material is ready, it is laid over a mold, and a vacuum is applied to pull the material tightly over the mold, creating the desired shape.
Once molded, the formed part is left to cool before trimming the excess plastic. The final product is then cut to remove unwanted material and finished for assembly.
Industries Using Vacuum Forming
Vacuum forming finds its uses in industries such as retail for creating durable plastic parts. Some common products made using vacuum forming include:
- Vehicle interior panels
- Clamshell containers
- Hospital trays
- Point-of-sale stands
Advantages of Vacuum Forming
One of the biggest advantages of vacuum forming is its cost-effectiveness. Other notable benefits include:
- Quick turnaround
- Economical setup
- Customizable shapes
- Lightweight materials
Conclusion
Vacuum forming is a effective process that enables the creation of durable plastic products at a budget-friendly rate.