Everything You Need to Know about Thermoforming, Thermoforming Machines, and their Applications
Thermoforming is a plastic manufacturing process and as the name suggests it involves heat, compressed air/vacuum to transform plastic material. In other words, it is a process where heat is applied to plastic sheet, making it pliable so that with vacuum or pressure, it can get be converted into specific shape. Most common examples of thermoformed products include, food packaging containers, automotive interior components and medical device housings. There are specific machines called thermoforming machines which are used for the creation of wide range of products with precision and efficiency.
How do thermoforming machines work?
Thermoforming machines utilize a series of steps to convert plastic sheets into various shapes and forms. Here is an overview of the typical thermoforming process:
· Heating plastic sheets – The machine uses heat equipment to raise the temperature of plastic sheet to a pliable state so that it can be moulded easily.
· Forming plastic sheets in mould cavities – The heated plastic sheet is then transferred to a temperature-controlled and pre-heated mould tool where it takes the shape of the mould cavity.
· Cooling – After the plastic is put into the mould, it is cooled to solidify and retain its shape. This ensures dimensional accuracy and structural integrity.
· Trimming – Excess material is trimmed away from the formed product, resulting in a clean and finished component.
Where are thermoforming machines widely used?
Thermoforming machines are used across wide range of industries, some of its common applications include:
· Packaging
Thermoforming machines are extensively used to manufacture blister packs, clamshells, trays, and containers for various consumer products, food items, and pharmaceuticals.
· Automotive
These machines are used for producing interior components such as dashboards, door panels, consoles and exterior parts like bumpers and spoilers.
· Medical
Thermoforming is also a preferred method for producing medical device components and packaging for pharmaceutical products.
· Consumer goods
Thermoformed plastic is used in the production of household items, electronic device enclosures, toys, and point-of-sale displays.
Now that you know what is thermoforming, how thermoforming machines work and where are these mostly used, if you think you require these machines for your business, you must visit Ridat’s website - https://www.ridat.com/ .Ridat is a UK-based manufacturer of thermoforming equipment, offering over 70 models of the thermoforming machines. You can go through all of their products on the website and in case of queries, call on - +44 (0) 20 8458 6485