What is Thermoforming? How does it apply to Vacuum Packaging?

Posted by Chela Mancuso

While there are many types of packaging options on the market, thermoforming is one of the most cost-effective and hands-free solutions to any and all manufacturing needs. Thermoforming is a manufacturing process that involves heating a plastic sheet to a specific temperature and then forming it into a desired shape. The process is commonly used to create packaging for a variety of products in many different industries, including packaging for food, medical devices, and electronics. Thermoforming is a cost-effective and efficient method of producing packaging, and it is often combined with vacuum packaging to create airtight seals. Thermoforming might seem complex and intimidating, but AMAC Technologies has a dedicated team that will work to help you understand what equipment you need for your manufacturing operations and how to use it best. 

What Does The Thermoforming Process Look Like?

The thermoforming process involves several steps, but don’t let that intimidate you! The entire process is easily automated, and once it is set up, it rarely requires human intervention to keep running smoothly.

First, a plastic sheet is heated to a specific temperature until it becomes soft and pliable. Next, the sheet is placed over a mold, and a vacuum is applied to draw the plastic into the mold’s shape. Once the plastic cools and hardens, it retains the mold’s shape and is ready for use.

There are two main types of thermoforming: pressure forming and vacuum forming. Pressure forming is used for products that require high levels of detail and precision like small electronic components, while vacuum forming is used for larger products that require less precision like large pieces of cheese, fish, or different meats. 

Vacuum packaging is a process used to remove air from a package before sealing it. This creates an airtight seal that helps to preserve the contents of the package. Vacuum packaging is commonly used for food, medical devices, and electronics, as it helps to prevent contamination, extend shelf life, and protect products during transport.

How Are Thermoforming And Vacuum Packaging Used Together?

Thermoforming is often combined with vacuum packaging to create airtight seals. In this process, a plastic sheet is thermoformed into the desired shape, and then a vacuum is used to remove the air from the packaging. The vacuum removes all of the air from the package, including the area around the product. This creates a tight seal that helps to preserve the product’s quality and freshness. Thermoform vacuum packaging is commonly used in the food industry for products like meat, cheese, and produce. The process helps to extend the shelf life of potentially perishable products by preventing the growth of bacteria and other contaminants, and by keeping things like moisture or dust out that could damage or ruin the product. Thermoform vacuum packaging is also commonly used in the medical industry for medical devices and implants. The process helps to keep the devices sterile and prevents contamination during transport and storage.

What Are The Benefits Of Thermoform Vacuum Packaging?

There are a wide variety of benefits to using thermoform vacuum packaging. First, the packaging provides an airtight seal that helps keep the product fresh and preserves its quality. This is especially important for perishable products like food and medical devices. Second, thermoform vacuum packaging is customizable, which means that it can be designed to fit any shape or size product. This ensures that the product fits snugly inside the packaging, minimizing the risk of movement during transport. Third, thermoform vacuum packaging is cost-effective, affordable, and incredibly efficient which makes it an attractive option for manufacturers.

If you’re interested in utilizing thermoform vacuum packaging in your business, get in touch with AMAC Technologies today!