What is Thermoforming?

Thermoforming is a process of heating thermoplastic sheet and placing it over a mold until cooled. The thickness of the material determines whether the manufacturing process uses rolled sheets (thin gauge) or pre-cut stacked sheets (heavy gauge). Thin gauge material is dominant in the disposable packaging sector, especially in the retail markets. Heavy or thick gauge material is commonly used as permanent components in such things as refrigerators, automobiles and spas to name a few. PVC is the most commonly used material.

Thermoformed Packaging

Visipak manufacturers a wide variety of thermoformed packaging solutions that are ideal for nearly any product line. Listed below are several of our more popular options, which include clear plastic clamshells, blister packaging, and thermoformed tray inserts. 

Engineering and Prototypes

Outside of an extensive line of stock clamshells, most thermoformed items are custom designed to fit the intended contents. Our custom thermoforming design experience over multiple years has given us an advantage and we closely advise clients of the best options for their applications. Using cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, our engineers will advise on material, process, and design to ensure the outcome is the most economical and efficient custom thermoforming product.

The Equipment

Our thin gauge, in-line thermoforming machines produce high volume quality parts from a variety of materials. The material moves through the heating section into the forming section where pressure and/or vacuum forces the material onto the mold. The process continues to the next station where the forms are die-cut.

Generally, vacuum forming refers to all sheet forming methods. Pressure aids vacuum forming to push the material into the mold. The added pressure of this process provides greater detail and textured surfaces in the end product. Creating sharp corners is possible with pressure added during the forming process.

Benefits of Thermoforming