Plastic Processes

Plastic Processes

1. Line Bender

   • How it works
     • The element heats up- plastic is then placed on the top of the element.
     • This then melts/ softens the plastic therefore modelling to the shape.
   • Advantages
     • Ideal for one-off and batch production.
     • Straight bends are produced efficiently set up costs are low precise temperature control over the heated area for heat, precise bends.
   • Disadvantages
     • Bends must be accurately marked before folding.
     • Acrylic can bubble it over heated
     • Formed bend has to be allowed some time in the exact position.
   • Plastics used
     • Thermoplastics
   • Used for...
     • Brochure / menu / business card holders
     • Shop Signage

2. Vacuum forming

   • How it works
     • The plastic is melted/ softened- it is then placed over a specially crafted mould.
     • The plastic is heldto the mould by a vacuum-see ppt.
   • Advantages
     • Light weight products to be mades
     • Relatively easy moulds that can be modified.
     • Surface textures can be moulded- not added finish.
     • Ideal for batch production- Inexpensive
   • Disadvantages
     • Material sometimes 'thins' toomuch and bursts.
     • Moulds would need to be accurate to prevent webbing.
     • Product needs to be cut out.
     • Formed bends need to be allowed to cool for some time.
   • Plastics used
     • Thermoplastics: PVC, ABS, HIP's and Acrylic
   • Used for...
     • Blister packaging
     • Yoghurt pots
     • Chocolate box trays

3. Blow Moulding

   • How it works
     • Similar to vacuum forming
   • Advantages
     • Very cheap unit costs
     • Highly automated
     • Not labout intensive
     • Ideal for mass production
     • Very little finishing required
   • Disadvantages
     • Very high set up costs- due to moulds being expensive to develop and produce.
     • Not suitable for small runs.
   • Plastics used
     • Ploymers
   • Used for...
     • Bottles and containers
     • Hollow plastic products