Thermoforming is a fast, cost-effective way to shape plastic into functional forms, making it a go-to process for industries like packaging and medical devices. Put simply, thermoforming shapes plastic by heating the plastic sheets over forms. Learn more about the advantages of thermoforming to see why it is so popular.
When choosing a manufacturing method, you should consider both the pros and cons to determine if it is a good fit. In general, thermoforming is a cost-effective and quick way to make large and small runs. It can accommodate a wide range of shapes and sizes for various industries.
On the other hand, it is not always a great fit for very complex geometric shapes, or those requiring intricate internal designs. Before you make a decision, consider both the advantages and disadvantages of thermoforming to see if it is the right packaging material for your application.
Take a closer look at four key benefits of thermoforming that support its widespread use.
It takes far less time to tool new forms compared to creating other types of dies and molds. This allows our team to take a shape from an initial idea to a completed product very quickly. The ability to rapidly develop new shapes allows companies to adapt and implement custom designs quickly.
Thanks to its limited waste production, thermoforming is a highly sustainable production method. It is an excellent way to use recycled plastic materials, many of which are well-suited to the thermoforming process. Additionally, end-users can increase sustainability through recycling finished products after using them.
Thermoforming has low set-up costs, making it an affordable option for companies that need multiple components. Low material costs, minimal labor input, and efficient material use further enhance its cost-effectiveness.
Thermoforming is highly adaptable and allows manufacturers to produce unique components for diverse industries, such as aerospace, medical device manufacturing, and food production. Design flexibility is one of the largest advantages of thermoforming over other production methods. With it, you can:
You can also choose from several popular materials, further increasing customization options. The ability to create completely custom designs makes thermoforming a popular choice for both large- and small-scale projects.
As with any valuable process, there are also some downsides. The most significant disadvantage to thermoforming is that it cannot create complex and intricate shapes. This is especially problematic for companies that want to use a single plastic manufacturing technique for multiple products.
Additionally, while thermoforming is great for thin-walled projects, such as packaging trays, it is not ideal for thicker pieces. Variations in material thicknesses can lead to uneven forming and product distortion. This can contribute to the need for time-consuming finishing processes.
At Ready-Made Plastic Trays, we have seen the advantages of thermoforming firsthand. We use the technique to create secure packaging materials for medical devices, food products, automotive parts, electronics, and more. Contact us to learn more.