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Options: Thermoforming/Thermoplastic | Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic | Vacuum Forming

Thermoforming/Thermoplastic Fabrication

thermoforming
From flat sheet...
thermoforming
to raw material...
thermoforming
to finished formed component

McClarin Plastics, Inc. specializes in thermoforming large parts. From marine parts to anti-static, reusable shipping containers, to water control pipe fittings with high environmental stress crack resistance and ABS thermoplastic enclosures, to motorcycle fairings, thermoforming offers a variety of competitive advantages.

Lower mold costs, shorter lead times, design flexibility and large part capabilities are only a few of the reasons why thermoforming is selected by many of our customers. Heavy gauge material (.064" - .500") is most commonly used.

The various thermoforming processes are based on the recognition that rigid thermoplastic become pliable and stretchable when heated, but will return to its original rigidity and strength when cooled. For most plastics molding processes, the temperature of the material is raised until it turns into a liquid-like, but highly viscous material. This makes it possible to achieve any shape, as long as a suitable mold can be built for it.

To provide our customers with optimum flexibility, McClarin's thermoforming processes are housed in over 120,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehouse space.

The McClarin staff will assist you with design, tooling, customization and materials. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with creative solutions so your thermoforming project will have the competitive advantage you need.

Twin Sheet

This process is primarily used to add structure to thermoformed components. In twin sheet forming, two sheets of material are simultaneously moved between opposing molds, vacuum formed into their respective molds and then pressed together. The pressure on the two molds and squeezing the sheets together effects an excellent bond similar to a thermoweld. Materials of differing thickness and color may be twin sheet thermoformed.

twin sheet polyethylene
Twin Sheet Polyethylene drainage pipe section

Mold design and construction are extremely important for accurate forming and consistent welding. All mating perimeter and interior surfaces of the mold must be machined to allow for proper material movement and thickness during the squeezing process. This machining process, heavier mold wall thickness venting and the fact that matched molds are involved results in typical tooling costs at 2.4 times single sheet tooling.

At McClarin, we twin sheet duct and irrigation-fitting components; large and rigid parts including machine covers and doors are also twin sheet produced.

Pressure Forming

This process is similar to vacuum forming, except with the addition of pressure, which pushes the sheet into the shape of the mold. This process is mainly used for parts that require styling and aesthetic qualities because pressure forming creates greater detail, allowing for textured surfaces, undercuts and sharp corners, which are not as easily created with vacuum forming.