One of the most common Vacuum Forming plastic fabrication methods, Vacuum forming is used to produce a wide range of products by applying heat and vacuum suction to shape plastic sheets over molds.
How Vacuum Forming Works
The process begins with a polymer sheet being softened until it reaches the optimal forming temperature. Once the material is ready, it is draped over a template, and a vacuum is applied to draw the material tightly over the mold, achieving the desired shape.
Once molded, the formed part is allowed to cool before cutting the excess plastic. The final product is then refined to remove unwanted material and processed for use.
Where Vacuum Forming is Used
This technique is widely used in various industries, including automotive, to produce specialized components. Some frequent products made using vacuum forming include:
- Vehicle interior panels
- Clamshell containers
- Hospital trays
- Point-of-sale stands
Benefits of Vacuum Molding
One of the biggest benefits of vacuum forming is its affordability. Other notable benefits include:
- Quick turnaround
- Affordable molds
- Customizable shapes
- Lightweight materials
Conclusion
Vacuum forming is a versatile process that enables the creation of durable plastic products at a competitive price.