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Writer's pictureEvan Javier

Thermoform Plastic: Its Types And Uses

Updated: Jul 13



Thermoforming is a way of manufacturing plastic sheets by the process of being heated at a certain temperature. It is then molded to the desired shape. After that, it is trimmed to create a usable product. They will be strong and permanent upon cooling. Thermoform plastic is widely used worldwide and comes in various forms. These plastics are widely used across the globe.


The thermoform plastics are used in Thermoforming. They are of various types. They are ABS, HIPS, HDPE, PVC, PET, and PETG.


Here Are Types And They Are Discussed Below.


ABS Plastic


ABS is one of the common thermoform plastics. ABS provides strong resilience to the product which upon heating can be moulded into your desired shape. The best part is that it can handle temperatures ranging from -4 to 176°F. The high temperature permits the plastic in the molten state. ABS plastic is used in golf club heads, musical instruments and it is also useful in toys. This plastic is also used in tattoo inks.


HIPS Plastic


HIPS plastic is another important thermoform plastic which is a low cost used world. It is used as rigid plastics or foamed.  This is basically used for packing peanuts, dry fruits items, and also clamshell containers. Highly effective property of printing on the HIPS plastics has made it to use as signboards. Good resistance quality with a moderate stiffness


PVC Plastic


PVC or Polyvinyl chloride is a renowned plastic and is the third most used polymer. PVC has long durability and is capable of giving full protection. It can endure high temperatures and its impact. The notable one is that it is affordable. PVC is mainly used for providing protection in sewage pipes, faux leather clothing, electric cables, flooring, etc.


PET Plastic


PET plastic is one of the most common forms of thermoform plastic. It is mainly used in bottle production and synthetic fibers. PET plastic increases its resistance after it is moulded and dried into its desired shapes. The products which are made up of PET plastics have a long-lasting effect and sustain barriers from outside elements. PET plastic is a recycled one. So it can be reused.


PETG Plastic


PETG also referred to as Polyethylene Terephthalate glycol-modified thermoform plastic. It is a variation of PET plastic. PETG plastic is widely used in the packaging of blister and trays. It has the unique capability of heat resistance. It gives a hard texture to the materials where it is used. Its durable structure makes it strong and its resistance is increased after being heated.


HDPE Plastic


HDPE plastic is used in a wide range from woven ropes to monobloc chairs It has the capacity to endure the temperature from high to low that enables to tolerate the temperature. It is opaque and harder, this property enables its utility in a different application.  The exceptional strength to density ratio makes it unique in solid appearance. It is used in a wide variety of applications like plastic bags and bottles. Water pipes and cable installation can also be done.


Types Of Thermoforming

There are two types of Transforming.

  1. Vacuum Transforming.

  2. Pressure Transforming.

Vacuum forming uses heat as well as pressure so that they can draw plastic sheets and can have it to a configuration. When the sheet is heated, it is placed over a mold and the vacuum is used to manipulate it to its desired shape.


Pressure forming is quite similar to that of vacuum forming. But it has one advantage; it has its additional pressure. The pressure makes the substance hard and a solid choice.


The thermoformed plastic is useful and due to its strong durability and resistance power, people are accepting it widely. All the types of plastics differ from each other. All of them have different uses.

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