Vacuum forming

Vacuum forming of plastics

In vacuum forming, a heated thermoplastic sheet is pressed against the mould by a vacuum. The result is a formed part that reproduces the mould’s shape exactly. Our production plant in Vantaa has four vacuum-forming machines, which can be used to produce items which vary in size from very small to very large plastic parts. The molding area of our largest machine is 2200 X 1200 X 700 mm. In addition, we have long experience and solid expertise in the manufacture of vacuum forming products.

Our experts are here to help you with vacuum forming

By choosing Aikolon as your vacuum forming partner, you will get significant cost savings in the long term and an efficient product development partner that will help you find the right solutions for your specific needs. Our vacuum forming expert will help you throughout the process.

With expert help:

  • You will find suitable and cost-effective materials
  • Your product gets the best performing shapes
  • Find the most cost-effective production method
  • Get R&D support at different stages of the product life cycle

Advantages of vacuum forming

  • Low start-up costs
  • Possibility to produce high-quality series starting from individual prototypes
  • Production can be started quickly
  • Large pieces can also be manufactured

Vacuum forming process

The sheet blank is heated by a vacuum forming machine to the specified temperature, after which the heated sheet blank is blown with compressed air into a bubble in tall pieces. At the same time, the machine tool table with the mold is lifted inside the bubble. The air is then sucked out of the bubble by means of negative pressure. The plastic part is cooled, and the blank is removed from the mold. Finally, the edges are cut off and the shapes of the piece and possible openings are made using CNC technology.

Moulds

The moulds used in vacuum forming can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, aluminium or polyurethane resin (for example, ebalta materials, Cibatool or SikaBlock). The choice of mould material depends on the quality required of the end product and the batch size.

Materials used for vacuum forming

Numerous thermoplastics are suitable for use in vacuum forming. Sheets used for vacuum forming usually range from 1 to 10 mm in thickness.


The most commonly used materials: