The versatility of plastic is what makes it one of the most useful materials around. Through custom fabrication techniques, plastic can be formed into a huge variety of shapes and sizes. One such method is thermoforming, an intricate process that allows for complicated plastic moldings. Learn more about this fascinating process below.

How Thermoforming Works

1. Creating a Design

The custom fabrication process of thermoforming begins with a design. Deciding and developing the design affects all steps onward, so getting it just right is crucial to producing a high-quality mold.

2. Selecting Materials

Once the design has been finalized, the specific type of plastic is chosen for the project. Commonly used materials include PVC, polyethylene, acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and polycarbonate. These materials are typically available in two forms: From a cut sheet, for large, thicker projects, and from a roll-fed sheet for projects with a thinner gauge. The chosen material typically has various qualities such as anti-static coatings, colors, ultraviolet inhibitors, and fire-retardant coatings.

3. Creating the Mold

Since the custom fabrication process of thermoforming relies on molds, creating the mold to the exact specifications is an extremely important step of the process. The mold, also called “tooling,” can be made from several different materials, such as aluminum.

4. Thermoforming

When everything is in place, the thermoforming can begin. First, the chosen plastic material is heated to a pliable temperature. Then, it is placed against the mold and formed using air pressure or vacuum pressure to ensure a proper shape. When the form has been achieved, the plastic is cooled and removed from the mold. Cooling the plastic against the surface of the mold allows it to be almost entirely free of residual stress, increasing the product’s longevity and strength.

5. Finishing & Trimming

Once the thermoformed plastic is fully cooled, any excess material will be removed from the product to make it perfectly match the original design.

Min Plastics & Supply has been the go-to source in Honolulu, HI, for plastic sales and services for more than 60 years. From supplying high-quality materials to custom fabrication jobs, the company is a one-stop shop for all things plastic. For more information, call (808) 847-1511 or visit their website.