Thermoforming
Information & Resources:
The 3 T's of Modern
Thermoforming > Technology
While there are still shops that run as they did in the 50's, (and many
of them still produce fine work), their manufacturing methods generally
limit them to do prototypes, perform pre-production and do short run
quantities. Designers, engineers, and purchasing agents who are looking
for high tolerance, high quality plastic components that can compete
with injection molding, have come to depend upon the new breed of thermoformers
that make creative use of technology in every facet of their businesses.
As a potential customer for thermoformed or pressureformed plastic components,
why should you care about a vendor's commitment to technology? Here are
just a few of the reasons:
Mold Design and Fabrication Options
Your potential former needs Computer Aided Drafting (CAD), Solid Modeling
capability and an Internet presence so they can establish a common dialogue
and communication link with your engineering staff. They need experience,
supported by data, so they can recommend the right tooling strategy to
achieve your desired results. They need a skilled, in-house tooling department
that can draw from a variety of innovative tooling approaches (Computer
Numerical Control (CNC) machining, casting, fabrication, metal arc spray,
etc.) to produce the sophisticated tooling and fixturing required to
meet your needs.
Manufacturing
The complex shapes and intricate detail required of today's most demanding
thermoformed and pressureformed parts can only be achieved with microprocessor
driven forming machines allowing independent heat zone control and precise
cycle repeatability. Trim functions that were once subject to the inconsistencies
of hand fixtures and operator error are now performed by three and five-axis NC routers, insuring that finished parts will meet specification
every time.
Customer Support
Integrated manufacturing software packages now allow for instantaneous
monitoring and control of every phase of your project, from raw material
procurement to bill-of-materials development, to work order generation
and order fulfillment. The ability to access job history and product
performance gives a modern thermoformer a powerful tool in their quest
to drive down costs and improve your profits. Instantaneous communication
via email, voice mail, phone and fax has made it possible for your thermoformer
to respond immediately to the ever-changing requirements of your marketplace,
regardless of their geographic location.
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