Thermoforming has many commercial applications, creating everything from blister packaging to electronic equipment parts and vehicle components. But if business owners don't have a basic understanding of this process, they won't realize how many ways they can use it. Faro Industries, which has been offering custom plastic services in the Rochester, NY, area since 1967, shares their knowledge of thermoforming by answering frequently asked questions about it.

4 FAQs About Thermoforming

What Is the General Process?

Thermoforming molds plastic into a specified shape or product. The technique involves heating the material until it becomes malleable, then shaping it over a mold. Once it has been manipulated into the desired form, the plastic is cooled and cut.

Are There Different Types of Thermoforming?

This custom plastic process uses two primary techniques: vacuum and pressure. Vacuum thermoforming utilizes suction to pull the plastic into the correct shape. Pressure thermoforming relies mostly on force to mold the plastic and is a better choice than the vacuum method when texture and fine details are important.

How Is It Used?

A thermoform packaging process can be used on plastic sheets of all sizes, which makes it useful in a broad range of industries. Thin sheets typically are used to create food packaging and disposable plastic containers. Thicker sheets are formed into more permanent products like automobile surfaces, electronic components, and aircraft windshields.

How Does the Process Start?

Thermoform products originate with a design that’s plotted on paper or a computer. Next, materials are selected according to the durability needs of the product. Then the mold is created and the heating, forming, and cooling of the plastic sheet take place. Finally, excess plastic is trimmed to give the product its desired size and shape.

Whether you’re looking for thermoforming services, 3-D printing, or rapid prototyping, Faro Industries in Rochester, NY, can solve your business manufacturing needs. They will put their knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you to achieve the custom plastic products you require. Call (585) 647-6000 to discuss your project or contact them via their website, where you’ll find more information about their work. Like them on Facebook for industry news and tips from the business.