Vacuum forming
MK Plastteknik offers vacuum forming.
What is vacuum forming?
Vacuum forming is a manufacturing process in the plastics industry in which a thermoplastic film or sheet is heated and formed over a mold by applying vacuum. The process is used to create three-dimensional plastic parts in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Here is an overview of how vacuum forming works:
Mold Preparation: A negative mold, usually made of metal or other malleable materials, is created to represent the desired shape of the final plastic product.
Heating the plastic material: A thermoplastic plastic film or plate is placed over the mold. The plastic material is then heated to an optimal temperature where it becomes soft and malleable without losing its structure.
Vacuum molding: Once the plastic material has reached the correct temperature, vacuum is applied under or above the mold. This literally sucks the plastic over the mold, forcing it to take the shape of the mold.
Cooling and solidification: After molding, the plastic is cooled rapidly to solidify and preserve the new shape. This can be done by blowing cold air over the plastic or by placing it in a cooling chamber.
Removing the finished piece: Once the plastic has solidified and taken the shape of the mold, the finished plastic piece is removed from the mold. Any excess or superfluous material is trimmed away.
Vacuum forming is often used to produce products such as toys, packaging, automotive interiors, and various types of household items. It is particularly useful for creating products in high volumes with relatively low tooling costs compared to other manufacturing methods.