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Thermoforming and Vacuum Forming Services – Update

Thermoforming and Vacuum Forming Services

Molding durable, detailed plastic components — our specialty for 50+ years

Thermoforming, vacuum forming, pressure forming, CNC part machining — these manufacturing methods have made up the SSI toolkit since the 1970s. We use the latest state-of-the-art forming machinery and techniques along with our expert assembly process to create complex parts at a high level of detail. 

See why top OEMs and high-tech specialty device manufacturers choose SSI thermoforming services for critical components:

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Thermoforming and Vacuum Forming

Thermoforming and vacuum forming are often used synonymously, but it’s more accurate to say that thermoforming describes the general process of molding heated plastic materials, while vacuum forming specifies a process in which those materials are pressurized or vacuumed over a mold and cooled to retain their new shape.

While thermoforming and vacuum forming are not typically the best methods for mass production or manufacturing hollow parts, they are great choices for a variety of applications and rank highly among other plastic molding methods on affordability, speed, range across small and large parts, level of detail, and number of material options.

Why Choose Thermoforming?

Quick

Thermoforming is a fast alternative to many other plastic molding methods, such as rotomolding and compression molding. Custom part production takes a matter of days, rather than the months you might wait if using another method.

Economical

Plastic is more cost-effective than fiberglass or metal, and vacuum forming molds are relatively inexpensive, making thermoforming a much smaller investment than other forming methods.

Versatile

Thermoforming can produce varied components in all sizes, from simple trays to highly detailed flight-critical components.

Durable

Plastics used in thermoforming can stand up to environmental pressures and resist degradation without regular maintenance.


Material Options for Thermoforming

  • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
  • Acrylic (Polymethyl Methacrylate)
  • PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
  • PP (Polypropylene)
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
  • TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin)
  • KYDEX™ (PMMA / PVC blend)

Thermoforming Applications

Need a plastic part? We can thermoform it for you. The processes we use can be applied to just about any component in any industry. Here are a few we work with regularly:

ATV and RV components

Fishing rod and tackle storage

Bodywork for scooters

Golf cart parts

Coolers

Transom trims

Piling and post caps

Coaming boxes

Rod boxes

Storage cabinets

Dash panels

Electrical Enclosures

Window Trims

Belt and machine guards

Access doors and panels

Electrical connection enclosures

Industrial piling and pole covers

Interior and exterior machinery parts

Face shields

Medical trays

Cadaver bins

Instrument housings

Medical Carts

Therapeutic devices

Catch bins and waste receptacles

Organizers and tools trays

Environment covers

Stacking or nesting parts

Storage bins and tubs

Growing pots

Seeding trays

Garden ornaments

Concrete forms

Landscaping and gardening tools

Get more information on the markets we serve: see our industries.


Available Specifications

Sizes

  • Width: Up to 5 ft
  • Length: Up to 9 ft
  • Thickness: From 1/16” to over ½”

Strength

Our plastic components often match or exceed the strength of their fiberglass or metal counterparts — plus, plastics are more durable and don’t require maintenance.

Aesthetics

Our formed plastic parts can be produced in your desired color — no need for prepping, coating, or painting.

Secondary Services

We offer full assembly of multi-component parts and can package ready-to-use units. We can also pre-install hardware, including:

  • Mounting studs
  • Threaded inserts
  • Hinges
  • Latches
  • Locks
  • Props
  • Mounts
  • Grommets
  • And more — just ask!

Start Your Project with Us

Whether it’s a unique design or a complex project, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. 
Reach out to us and we’ll get back to you in just 1 business day!

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