For understanding the world of plastics and types used in thermoforming, we must understand the process first. The thermoforming process involves heating the concerned material at the forming temperature so that you can apply the required pressure on the sheet to take the desired shape by filling in cavities of the frame. There are three different types of forces that you can apply for getting the desired shape of the plastic, namely, manual assist, vacuum, and form air. There are about six types of plastics used in the industry for thermoforming methods: ABS, HIPS, HDPE, PVC, PET, and PETG. You can make about anything with the suitable types and frames for the plastic.
ABS plastic: ABS plastic stands for composition made of three materials, namely
acrylonitrile, styrene, and butadiene. With the right combination of these
materials in the formation of plastic, you will get a composite that is
resilient to a lot of external factors. It can handle temperatures ranging from
-4 degrees Fahrenheit to 176 degrees Fahrenheit. This property makes the
plastic quality durable for a lot of uses in various industries. Some of the
common examples of the services are protective headgear, golf club heads,
musical instruments, like recorders, and even for toys, like Legos. You can
also use this plastic in some tattoo inks.
HIPS plastic: HIPS plastic or polystyrene is popularly known as rigid plastic. It
is easily transferable into known formats but is brittle and transparent in
nature. This defining property makes it a popular pick for disposable cutlery
with takeouts. One time use bottles and containers. Manufacturing companies
like using this to protect edibles like chips, peanuts, food, and other drink
items. Since it is a budget variant of plastic, most people love the idea of
high in demand products that need reinforcements now and then.
HDPE plastic: It is a popular variant of the HIPS quality that is comprised up of
petroleum. It contains a high density of polyethylene. Since this variety of
plastic has an excellent strength to density ratio, it makes the plastic idea
for various uses. It helps make the installation pipes in the construction
business. Manufacturing units use this plastic in the upper layer of the
cables. It is also widely used in making plastic bags as well as bottles for
daily use.
PVC: Another typical example of a plastic that is probably in the top
three used polymers in the field. It is made up of suspension polymer that
makes the plastic useful for making things that can withstand high temperature
and pressure. It has a strong heard structure with a rigid outer surface. This
property makes it viable for many uses like sewage pipes, commercial signage, electric
cables, flooring, faux leather clothing.
PET plastic: It is primarily used in the production of bottles across the globe.
The distinctive property of this plastic is that once you have molded the
surface in the desired shape, you need to dry it further before you can put it
to regular use. It helps in increasing the resistance of the product. It helps
in keeping the outside elements from tampering with the liquid or any other
edible inside. You can also recycle PET plastic, which makes it one of the most
popular options for production in the industry.
