When it comes to manufacturing, time to market is critical, especially when it comes to specific circumstances, such as: Prototype development Initial production runsSeasonal spikes in demand By getting your products made, assembled and shipped faster, you’ll improve customer responsiveness and stay ahead of the competition....
A successful part starts with a good tool. There are many different tool designs and material selections available for various applications. Here are some of the most common tool types thermoformers utilize. Composite Molds: Depending on the length of the production run, and especially for prototyping, an engineered composite mold...
A thermoformer’s engineering team can provide a range of advice and technical support to create solutions that meet your needs and those of the marketplace. One of the most important stages where the engineering team’s involvement can be vital is quality assurance. With their guidance, some activities a QA...
When developing solutions, manufacturers should team with their thermoformer on technologies and best practices to meet cost, time, and performance criteria. Here are some key points for collaboration: Engineering: The thermoformer should analyze your product’s function, brand attributes, user perceptions, and strategic plan to develop a list of parameters.Budget: Be sure...
Thermoforming offers many benefits over other types of molding. And one of the most significant benefit is the flexibility it delivers. With thermoforming, manufacturers have a variety of options both pre-production and post to achieve their desired outcome, including: Design: Your thermoforming vendor’s engineering and design teams can assess all the variables...
EMI, also known as electromagnetic interference, is a disturbance in the operation of electronic devices caused by external sources that affect the electrical circuit. One approach to prevent this interference is the use of an EMI shield, a protective enclosure placed around devices to block signals. Thermoforming can make...
To finish a thermoformed part, a variety of trimming processes can be used. The process selection depends on the quantity being produced, part specifications, and the tolerances needed. Options include hand trimming, die cutting, air router, and for the greatest precision, axis computer-numerical-controlled trimming, also known as CNC trimming. When...
When you’re selecting a thermoformer, consider looking for a partner that offers turn-key services to optimize your efficiencies and savings. Among the key processes a full-service thermoformer can offer are: In House Molding: Your thermoformer should have the pre-production experience to take your idea from prototype to production.Machining: Precise manufacturing is...
A variety of plastic materials can be used in thermoforming, including foams such as those made from polystyrene, polyethylene and polyurethane. In fact, since it’s durable, absorbs sound and impact well, and is relatively inexpensive, foam is a popular material choice. Thermoformers can form both open and closed cell foam: Open Cell:...
For OEMs looking for solutions to their part needs, thermoforming offers a number of benefits over other processes. With the right thermoforming partner, you’ll realize: Design Flexibility: A wide variety of materials, available in a range of colors and textures, allows you to obtain the look you want...