Ideal for prototype development and low-volume production, Vacuum Forming offers several advantages over other forming processes. Extremely adaptive to design needs and able to produce large volumes of parts without costly machinery and tooling.
A Viable Choice
Vacuum Forming (also known as thermoforming) is the technique in which plastic is heated to a manipulative state and form-fitted against a concave surface by way of suction. The material and process is optimized for cost-effectiveness and it is relatively easy to later make engineering changes to a part. Molds can be made from multiple materials ranging from wood to metal. Vacuum-formed components can be used in place of complex fabricated sheet metal, fiberglass or plastic injection molding.
Meeting Every Need
At Aerosport, we offer Vacuum Forming for a variety of projects:
- Small to large designs
- Quick-blister and clam-shell packaging prototypes
- Production-quality prototypes
We offer three variations:
- Cast Aluminum Molds – fast aluminum molds, can also be used in pressure forming applications
- Machined Aluminum Molds – cut out of solid aluminum block, for packaging and trays
- Composite Molds – lower cost alternative, produces high quality parts that last a very long time
Ideally suited for:
- Automotive
- Consumer products
- Packaging
- Retail and display
- Sports and Leisure
- Electronics
- Industrial applications
Typical Materials Used
- ABS – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- PETG – Polyester Copolymer
- PA – Polystyrene
- PC – Polycarbonate
- PP – Polypropylene
- PE – Polyethylene (sheet & foamed sheet)
- PVC – Polyvinyl Chloride
- AC – Acrylic