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Outsource for Faster Time to Market
When it comes to manufacturing, time to market is critical, especially when it comes to specific circumstances, such as: Prototype development Initial production runs Seasonal spikes in demand By getting your products made, assembled and shipped faster, you’ll improve customer responsiveness and stay ahead of the competition. And one of the most effective ways to…
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A Medley of Molds
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 may be a good choice…
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The Role of QA in Thermoforming Perfection
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 team can conduct to promote uniform…
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Teaming for Innovation
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 to share with…
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Flexibility First with Thermoforming
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 and requirements involved,…
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Who Needs EMI Shielding?
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 the use of protective plastic shields…
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Accuracy and Precision with CNC Trimming
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 it comes to CNC trimming,…
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What to Look for in a Thermoformer
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 critical so look…
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Can Foam Be Thermoformed? Yep.
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: This foam, which…
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Why Choose Thermoforming?
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 for your final part, even without paint.…
