Plastic thermoforming is a manufacturing process where a plastic sheet or roll is heated to a malleable forming temperature.
It is then formed to a specific shape in a mold, and trimmed to create a usable product.
Technicians heat the material in an oven to a high-enough temperature to stretch it into or onto a mould, then cool it into its finished shape.
There are several mould tool types that we can use for plastic thermoforming, what we choose depends on the number of production cycles required. For example, the four key mould materials are plaster of paris mould, wooden mould. plastic mould and aluminium mould.
Plastic thermoforming moulding has several advantages. It often requires only one mould half, resulting in lower tooling costs. Thermoforming produces products quickly and with quality comparable to injection moulding. Most importantly, its high speed makes it suitable for JIT (just-in-time) production strategies. Thermoforming also allows for the easier production of larger parts, expanding design possibilities. Manufacturers optimise the process and materials for cost-effectiveness, making thermoforming a versatile and economical manufacturing choice.
Barton International calls upon the combined experience of Midlands based manufacturing as well as utilising global low-cost partners.
Supplying medium to high volume precision manufactured products. Utilising a diverse range of metal fabrication, metal forging, metal formwork, metal casting, rubber and foam conversion and plastic moulding manufacturing techniques.
A designated Project Manager will manage your valued enquiry and provide technical support and full collaboration throughout your project. With on-site support if required, advising the best product solution to suit your application. Barton International have a wealth of manufacturing knowledge and offer CAD support, ensuring cost competitive quotation.
The next phase would be tooling and product testing, supporting our customers with fast-efficient tooling and precision manufactured samples. Upon sample approval Barton International will support with our partners medium to high volume production, with full assembly available within the UK if required.
Please feel free to get in touch, to speak with one of our team of experts or simply fill out our online contact form below to request a quote. We look forward to hearing from you.
