Thermoforming is a method for creating molded plastic products used in a variety of industries. In this technique, thin sheets of plastic are heated to a pliable temperature before being stretched over a mold and allowed to cool. If you're developing a product that requires custom plastic molding, here's what you should know about the most common uses for thermoforming.

What Are Some Applications for Thermoforming?

1. Auto Components

Thicker sheets of thermoplastic can also be thermoformed, making it the ideal production method for auto body panels and interior components. Plastic bumpers, dashboards, and consoles are typically produced by bending heated resin sheets over a mold.

2. Food Service Containers

Many food service products are made with injection molding. However, thermoforming is the best option for large items like storage tanks and barrels. Coverings for self-serve condiment dispensers, food carts, and vending machine panelings are also typically created through custom plastic molding.

3. Aircraft Parts

Most interior aircraft parts are made of plastic, which offers the ideal combination of durability, strength, and weight. Many of these components, such as overhead storage bin doors, wall and ceiling covers, and tray tables, are produced with thermoforming. The restrooms and galleys are also mostly made of thermoformed plastic.

4. Medical Devices

Covers and enclosures for medical devices like CT scanners and emergency call buttons are often created with thermoforming, a highly effective method for producing larger items with high degrees of accuracy. Custom plastic molding is often used to create a variety of products in the medical field, including imaging components, product packaging, and laboratory equipment.

From their 50,000 square foot facility in Bonita, CA, Pacific Integrated Manufacturing offers custom plastic molding services to medical device manufacturers across the globe. Their experienced team has access to some of the most advanced equipment in the industry and will guide your project through the entire process, from the initial designs to the final packaging. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (619) 921-3464 to discuss your project with a team member.