Thermoforming

Thermoforming is the process by which a piece with a certain shape is obtained. It starts with a sheet or plate of semi-finished thermoplastic which, by applying heat and using a vacuum with a mould or die, softens, and adapts to the shape of the mould. The heat applied must be the correct one (between 120 and 180 ºC). The same happens with the vacuum pressure, which varies between 600 and 760 mmHg. A bad adjustment of these parameters will result in a defective part. Mechanical pressing can also be done with a counter-mould.

Materials used in thermoforming

PAI: high impact polystyrene
PP: propylene
PET: Polyethylene Terephthalate
ABS: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
HDPE: high density polyethylene
PVC: Polyvinyl chloride
Foamed PVC
Polycarbonate PVC
Acrylic PVC

Stages of thermoforming

Heating of the semi-finished product
Moulding of the semi-finished product
Product cooling