Vacuum Forming
From making the 3D model, crafting the mold, to realizing the first vacuum-formed product, we are available to answer all your questions to achieve the desired result.
What does the vacuum forming process involve?
The sheet, known as 'thermoplastic', used for thermoforming or vacuum forming, is clamped in a metal frame.
The thermoplastic is heated until it reaches a certain temperature.
Then, the hot plastic sheet is pressed onto the mold.
At the same time, air is sucked out between the mold and the plastic sheet, and the product takes its shape.
In the thermoforming process, we use a variety of materials: polystyrene, high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), plexiglass, copolyester (PETG), ABS, plexiglass PMMA, polyester PETG, extruded polystyrene XPS, PVC.
The Finished Thermoformed Product:
After the sheet has cooled, the mold is removed from the product, which is then ready for further finishing.
Through vacuum forming, we produce a wide range of products for you. Throughout the process, you can rely on our consultation regarding the making of your desired product.
Thermoforming allows you to take advantage of the many benefits of plastic.
Our maximum standard sheet size for vacuum forming is 2000 x 2500 x 5 mm.
The final size depends on your design.
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≟Since when has vacuum forming existed as a process?
The concept of thermoforming through vacuum forming was developed in the 1950s, with the first vacuum forming machine patented and used for mass production in 1964.
However, other forms of thermoforming had been used before the boom years of consumer products, with thermoforming dating back to the late 19th century. -
≟What is the difference between vacuum forming and pressure forming?
Pressure forming follows the same steps as vacuum forming but differs in the way the softened plastic sheet conforms to the mold.
While vacuum forming uses only vacuum removal of air to draw the plastic into the mold, pressure forming uses a more advanced technique of the same vacuum technology combined with air pressure from above for even more precise forming of the shape. -
≟What materials can be used in vacuum forming?
Vacuum forming requires the use of thermoplastics that become easily flexible when heated. Additionally, vacuum forming utilizes plastics that have high resistance to fire, chemicals, and even water.
While there is a variety of different material options available, high-impact polystyrene (HIPS) and acrylic glass (plexiglass) are most commonly used for high-quality and durable end products. -
≟Can transparent plastic be vacuum formed?
Yes! Transparent plastic sheets can be shaped over molds using vacuum forming. In fact, the food and beverage industry most commonly uses the vacuum forming technique to create containers, lids, and various transparent forms for food packaging.
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≟What thickness of thermoplastic material can be vacuum formed?
Vacuum forming can be performed on plastic sheets with thicknesses ranging from 0.015 cm to 1.30 cm. However, some machines used for prototyping have limitations and can only use plastic sheets with thicknesses up to 0.65 cm.
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≟What products can be created through vacuum forming?
The manufacturing process of vacuum forming is responsible for creating hundreds of everyday products. Due to its low cost and high efficiency levels, companies turn to firms specializing in vacuum forming to create a variety of articles.
From large and bulky items like parts for household appliances, vehicle components, and advertising displays, to smaller items such as plastic utensils and food storage containers, your home is likely filled with products whose components have been vacuum formed. -
≟Is vacuum forming better for low or high-scale production?
The biggest advantage of using vacuum forming compared to other thermoforming processes is that it is inexpensive and fast.
If you are looking to produce optimal levels of items on a mass scale, pressure forming or other types of thermoforming would be better options.
Part of Our Clients:
EKO Bulgaria, Mtel, Globul, Vivacom, M-Svyat, Vinprom "Peshtera", Kolev & Kolev, Indesit, Philips, BIG, Microsoft, Sony, Lind, BMW, Volkswagen-Audi, Lacia, Derbi, GASGAS, Lufthansa Technik Sofia, Red Bull Energy Drink, Nestle, Kraft Foods, Zagorka, Heineken, Shark, Danzka Vodka, Darko Ice Cream, Central Cooperative Bank, Postal Bank, Sofia_Lend, PALMERS, FURLA, Ermenegildo Zegna, MaxMara, MarcCain, Milara, Superabrasive, SKA, Farko, Focus, Unitech - Engineering, New Games, Casino Technologies, Seven Stars SPY J, Art Electronics, B.S.B. Focus, Billboard, Brunata, Dragoff, G.P. Group, M Car Sofia, Medrey, Comet Electronics, Dinacord, Decibel, and others.
Thank you very much for the comprehensive attention to the projects related to the forming of advertising displays for our main client. I am thoroughly impressed by the professional services provided by the team at 3D Industry.
T. Todorov
The presentation plastic materials we needed for the upcoming exhibition turned out to be even better than expected! I find the process of working with the manufacturing company "3D Industry" to be easy and very effective. Thank you again for the well-done job!
V. Traychev
We have just received our outdoor advertisements, and they look fantastic. Exactly what we ordered! Thank you very much! It's great to work with you because I can always rely on excellent quality and service. You have never disappointed me.
M. Shopova
Our clients were extremely satisfied with the quality of the ordered presentation stands. Impeccable and clean forms according to the specified 3D projects. Thank you for doing a great job. Keep up the same pace.
Iv. Stanislavov
Contacts
Send us a message or give us a call for more information about the vacuum forming service.
Address:
Sofia 1505, ul. "Golash" 28A
/The entrance is from the side of ul. "Plachkovski Manastir"/
Email:
info@vf1.eu
Phones:
0888 42 16 59 - E. Nikolov | 0878 54 09 41 - N. Nachev