Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between “vacuum forming” and “thermoforming”?
There is no difference. Vacuum forming, or thermoforming, is a method of manufacturing thermoplastic parts by preheating a flat sheet of plastic or acrylic, then bringing it into contact with a mold whose shape it takes after suction is applied. The process offers close tolerances, tight specifications, and sharp detail. With the proper finishing techniques, thermoformed parts can be comparable in quality to injection molded pieces in quality, while costing much less.
Do you offer contract thermoforming?
Yes, we offer a full range of contract thermoforming services. We put our many years of real-world expertise to work for you. You can contract with us to produce short or long production runs. Contact Wolfgang Unger at 1-866-716-4820.
Why use ceramic infrared panels?
This type of heating has the highest efficiency rating and exhibits uniform heating, essential for forming large and thick thermoplastic / acrylic sheets.
Heating Type |
Efficiency New |
Efficiency (6 months) |
Avg. Life (hours) |
Comment |
Ceramic Panels |
62% |
55% |
12,000 |
Best Buy Uniform Heat and Very Efficient |
Quartz Panels |
55% |
48% |
8,000- 10,000 |
Uniform Heat |
Coiled Michrome |
16- 18% |
8- 10% |
1,500 |
Cheapest Initially Inefficient |
Tubular Rods |
42% |
21% |
3,000 |
Inexpensive Non-uniform Heat |
Gas Fired Infrared |
40- 45% |
25% |
5,000- 6,000 |
Cheapest to Operate
Many Disadvantages
|
Why go modular?
Using modular designed equipment means that you do not have to keep investing in separate machines as your company grows. Our thermoformers are constructed to be versatile and to endure the test of time.
How does a “moving sheet” thermoformer work?
Click Here for a pictorial explanation.
How does a “moving platen” thermoformer work?
Click Here for a pictorial explanation.
What are the available thermoformer / vacuum former variations?
Our modular thermoformers can be manufactured with a second station, bottom heat and/or top platen. Depending on your production needs and budget you can customize your machines operation or even the type of sheet clamping.
Click Here for illustrations.
What if I already have a vacuum storage container and a vacuum pump?
There should be no problem as long as the vacuum storage container and pump can handle the production requirements demanded for production. If your existing equipment is compatible your vacuum former quotation will be adjusted. Make sure to comment how many gallons the tank is and the type of vacuum pump being used with its horse power in your vacuum former quotation request. If your equipment is insufficient we can quote you a reconditioned vacuum storage tank and a Rietschle vacuum pump. Generally quotations include the pump price without the storage tank.
Why should I email pictures?
We greatly encourage people to email images of what they want to accomplish. Sending pictures greatly aids in communicating a customer's ideas and production needs. Effective communication is essential in taking design to delivery, on time and on budget.
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