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Vacuum Forming Machine

PROCESS

Two methods of plastic production exist: vacuum forming (thermoforming) and pressure forming. Both evacuate air from the sealed space between a heated plastic sheet and a mold to make the sheet conform to the mold. Pressure forming is for parts requiring higher precision and features such as sharp undercuts; to achieve these features, compressed air is added to the operation, from 20 to as much as 150 psi.

For fast set-up and production of plastic parts, especially large parts, vacuum forming (thermoforming) or pressure forming with sheet plastics has become the processing method of choice.

 

CNC Router

PRODUCTION STEPS

Meet with customer to discuss product needs.

Choose the best process to make desired part.

Select color and type of material.

Give pricing for tooling and parts.

After approval of part prototype, begin production using the latest equipment:

  • Solid Works station to receive and create drawings
  • Vacuum forming machines
  • Three station rotary (5' x 11')
  • Pressure former (4' x 8')
  • 5 axis routers up to 5' x 10'
     
thermoformed_solid_works Willamette Plastics uses Solid Works to design a 3D model for the customer. The 3D model is then imported into a CNC router that can accurately create the wood patterns for tools and trim fixtures ensuring accuracy. This process saves time and money that can be passed onto the customer.