All custom thermoforming projects begin with the right tooling. At Joslyn, we design tooling in-house, which allows for complete quality control from start to finish.
The right tooling depends on the material of your finished product. Prototype tooling may be made from wood or composites, which are easier and less costly to modify. Production tooling is typically crafted from aluminum, which ensures better consistency during long production runs.
Compared to the tooling for injection molded parts, tooling for thermoformed parts is less expensive and more quickly produced. Design features, such as inserts in the molds, offer flexibility so you can vary part aesthetics or produce different models in a product line.
Each plastic sheet has specialized physical characteristics that make it suitable for various applications. Joslyn Manufacturing has worked with nearly every type of thermoformable plastic and our team can help you find the best material for your project.
When selecting a material, we consider:
Thickness. Some materials come in rolls as thin as 0.010". Others come in sheets as thick as 0.600”. Most standard-size thermoformed parts use plastic materials with gauges from 0.030" to 0.375".
Finish. Will the finished part require painting? Would a custom-color material look better? There are a variety of colors, textures and finishes available.
Durability. Will the product need to withstand a harsh environment? Will it be exposed to humidity, chemicals, solvents or detergents? Does this part need to withstand heavy weight or pressure?
Heat deflection. Will the product be used under high operating temperatures or be exposed to heat from another source?
Location. Will the thermoformed component be used on the interior or exterior of a product?
Secondary operations. Is assembly required?
Characteristics
Easy to process, low cost, low strength, impact resistance, dimensional stability, FDA compliant
Sample Applications
Prototypes, trays, housings, covers
Characteristics
Strength, impact resistance, customizable rigidity, heat deflection and other characteristics
Sample Applications
Cases, control panels, automotive components
Characteristics
High resistance to impact, chemicals, and stains
Sample Applications
Prototypes, trays, housings, covers
Characteristics
Extremely resistant to impact, clear, good insulation, higher cost
Sample Applications
Transparent items, instrument panels
Characteristics
High resistance to chemicals, impact, and electrical conduction; economical; not ideal for high tolerances or cosmetic appearance
Sample Applications
Truck bed liners, shields, bins
Characteristics
Strong, rigid, high resistance to chemicals, dimensional stability
Sample Applications
Automotive components, pallets
Characteristics
High resistance to chemicals and stains, strong, rigid, flame retardant
Sample Applications
Drain pans, panels, display cases
Characteristics
Clear, easy to process, chemical resistant, FDA compliant, not UV stable
Sample Applications
Industrial and automotive components, POP displays, packaging