Understanding Vacuum Forming
What is Vacuum Forming?
Vacuum forming is a type of thermoforming that involves heating a thermoplastic sheet to its pliable state and then using a vacuum to pull the sheet tightly against a mold. The process can be broken down into several key steps:
Heating: The plastic sheet is heated until it becomes soft and malleable.
Forming: The heated sheet is draped over a mold.
Vacuum Application: A vacuum is applied, drawing the sheet into the contours of the mold.
Cooling: Once the sheet has cooled and solidified, it retains the shape of the mold.
Trimming: The formed part may require trimming to achieve the desired final dimensions.
This method is particularly advantageous for producing large parts with relatively low tooling costs compared to other processes like injection molding.
Types of Vacuum Forming Sheets
Various types of plastic sheets can be used in vacuum forming, each with distinct properties suitable for different applications:
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): Known for its strength and impact resistance, ABS sheets are commonly used in automotive parts and consumer products.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Rigid PVC sheets are often used for packaging and signage due to their durability and versatility.
High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS): HIPS sheets are lightweight and easy to form, making them ideal for packaging applications.
Polycarbonate: This material offers excellent clarity and impact resistance, suitable for applications requiring transparency.