What Is Thermoforming? | How A Used Thermoforming Machine Can Help You

The process of thermoforming is quite simple. Thermoforming means that a plastic sheet is heated to a pliable temperature where it can be formed, and then it’s trimmed to create a usable product. This plastic sheet is heated in an oven that’s hot enough to stretch the sheet onto a mold, or to a finished shape. In order to complete this process, manufacturers use a used thermoforming machine to do so.

A used thermoforming machine creates a number of items you use in your daily life: lids, trays, containers, food and medical products, disposable cups and plates, and more. The process of thermoforming is so widely used because it allows you to create several finished parts from the same material, which saves time and money. And, when you opt for a used thermoforming machine, you save even more because you aren’t investing in a brand-new piece of equipment.

Before you invest in a used thermoforming machine, it’s important to know the different terminology used when describing thermoforming.

In thermoforming, you’ll likely hear the word “thermoplastics” used often. Thermoplastics are the type of plastic made from polymer resins. These resins become homogenized when heated in a used thermoforming machine.

Vacuum forming is used in thermoforming by heating and stretching plastics using a vacuum. This process stretches the plastic to the desired mold, and because the mold is open, the force is usually around 15 psi. Pressure forming is stronger than vacuum forming. Pressure forming uses both vacuum and positive air pressure to add fine details to the mold, like surface textures, without adding more costs to the project. Pressure forming is able to generate up to four times as much pressure as vacuum forming.

Finally, twin sheet forming is utilized in a used thermoforming machine. Twin sheet forming has two molds, one on the top and one on the bottom, which means it requires two sheets of plastic to be heated and formed at the same time.

Twin sheet forming is often used for hollow parts that need an upper and lower shape, because of its ability to work with separate molds. This is part of what makes thermoforming such a dynamic process in the field of plastic processing.

If you’re considering adding a used thermoforming machine to your facility, it’s important to recognize the benefits of thermoforming. This process is cost-efficient because of the amount of products it can generate using just one material. Not only this, but it requires a much shorter lead time than other types of plastic processing.

Adding a used thermoforming machine to your facility means you’ll have the freedom to design and customize your final product. Because there are so many different processes involved in thermoforming, you are able to add details how you like, without tacking on a completely different process. There’s a reason this process is so popular among plastic manufacturers.

When it comes to purchasing a used thermoforming machine, be sure to check with the seller about the types of materials the machine can work with. Common materials used by used thermoforming machines include: vinyl, acrylic, LEXAN, polycarbonate, pennite, and more. When contacting a seller, make sure you know exactly what materials you’ll be using, the tolerances you’ll need, the application of your final product, and any additional features or capabilities you need. This will help the seller find you the best used thermoforming machine possible.

There’s a reason so many manufacturers rely on a used thermoforming machine to get the job done right. With the right machine, you’ll be able to operate at efficiencies never seen before. Find a reputable seller, and you’ll be on your way to adding a used thermoforming machine to your facility in no time.