Thermoforming
Thermoforming that Exceeds all Expectations
Advanced technology and precision services built to deliver the quality you need, when you need it.
Thermoforming expertise is in the Accuform DNA. Our experts operate 3 heavy gauge thermoformers including the latest in quartz, zone heating technology. We work with a wide range of premium materials, including ABS, Styrene, HDPE and other specialty resins suitable for virtually any application. Our capabilities go beyond forming—we offer custom CNC trimming, professional decal application, and full assembly and packaging services to deliver high-quality, ready-to-use products. Our team will work with you to produce higher quality thermoformed products than you thought possible.
As with everything we do, excellent customer service is our priority. Our mission is to be your strategic partner throughout the entire process, working side by side to bring your ideas to life in a cost-effective, timely manner.
Why Accuform Polymers
Thermoforming for parts up to 216 Inches—Go Bigger with Confidence
Build large, durable parts with precision.
Experts in Complex Shapes and Custom Trimming
We turn challenging designs into finished products.
Cost-Effective. On-Time. Always Supported.
Your trusted partner for consistent, high-quality results.
200,000 Sq. Ft. of Scalable Manufacturing Power
Space and capacity to handle projects of any size.
Ultra-Precise 5-Axis CNC Trimming
Complex contours, tight tolerances—flawlessly executed.
Collaborative Design & Mold Making Support
Partner with us from concept to production.
Full-Service Assembly & Packaging, In-House
We deliver turnkey solutions that simplify your supply chain.
Compatible Materials
Material selection is a crucial component of the thermoforming process. Different plastics have different physical characteristics (e.g., impact strength, flammability, heat deflection, etc.) which directly affects the suitability for your intended application. We work with top thermoplastic providers to offer a wide selection of materials, ensuring every part we mold is made from the highest quality materials and performs precisely how it should.
Want to know what materials are right for your project? Let’s Talk!
ABS
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
Acrylic/ABS
HDPE
High-Density Polyethylene
HMWP
High Molecular Weight Polyethylene
HIPS
High Impact Polystyrene
TPO
Thermoplastic Olefin
PC
Polycarbonate
PP
Polypropylene
What is thermoforming?
Thermoforming (also known as vacuum forming) is a process which uses low cost tooling and thin thermoplastic sheets to create 3-dimensional parts.
Thermoforming involves heating a thin plastic sheet until it becomes pliable, then shaping it onto or into a mold to create a desired form. Once cooled, the plastic retains the molded shape and is trimmed to its final dimensions and specifications. The versatility and cost effectiveness of the plastic thermoforming process make it an ideal choice for a wide array of industry applications.
Process
Mold Fabrication
A mold, typically made of aluminum, is fabricated to match the desired shape of the final product.
Heating
A sheet of appropriate thermoplastic (e.g., ABS, HDPE, TPO, etc.) is heated using a convection oven or radiant heater until it reaches a pliable, moldable state.
Forming
The sheet is placed over or between the mold where a vacuum is used to draw the sheet tightly into or into the mold, removing any trapped air.
Cooling
The formed plastic part is allowed to cool in the mold until it has fully set. Proper cooling prevents warping and ensures structural integrity.
cnc Trimming
The part is trimmed to the precise specs required using a 5-axis CNC router. Additional holes, slots, custom edges, etc may be added as well.
Advantages
Design Flexibility: Thermoforming is capable of producing complex shapes and sizes and allows for a wide range of texture and finish options. Additionally, the tooling and parts can be modified quickly and economically.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to other molding processes, like injection molding, Thermoforming often requires cheaper tooling, making it an economical option for low to medium production runs.
Lightweight and Durable: Compared to other molding processes, like injection molding, Thermoforming often requires cheaper tooling, making it an economical option for low to medium production runs.
Suitable for Large Parts: Thermoforming can produce large parts at a lower cost than other methods.
Materials: Thermoforming can utilize a wide variety of thermoplastics offering different properties like heat resistance, impact strength, transparency, etc.
Shorter Lead Times: Thermoforming allows for quick turnaround times, making it an excellent choice for rapid prototyping and quicker production cycles.
Eco-Friendly: Thermoforming produces little to no waste as excess plastic can be reused, resulting in a lower environmental impact.