Thermoforming has benefited from applications of engineering technology, although the basic forming process is very similar to what was invented many years ago. Microprocessor and computer controls on more modern machinery allow for greatly increased process control and repeatability of same-job setups from one production run to the next, usually with the ability to save [...]
There are two general thermoforming process categories. Sheet thickness less than 1.5 mm (0.060 inches) is usually delivered to the thermoforming machine from rolls or from a sheet extruder. Thin-gauge roll-fed or inline extruded thermoforming applications are dominated by rigid or semi-rigid disposable packaging. […]
Vacuum forming, commonly known as vacuforming, is a simplified version of thermoforming, whereby a sheet of plastic is heated to a forming temperature, stretched onto or into a single-surface mold, and held against the mold by applying vacuum between the mold surface and the sheet.The vacuum forming process can be used to make most product [...]
The first step in the mold development process—responding to a request for proposal (RFP)—requires moldmakers to import, diagnose and repair part geometry in order to assess its suitability for injection molding, develop estimates and produce a formal quote. Because moldmakers need to complete this step before even winning the business, […]
It is somewhat ironic that software companies are promoting closer integration when an increasing number of toolmakers are separating design and manufacture by putting responsibility for CAM onto the shop floor. This approach gives a number of potential advantages. […]
High-speed machining (HSM) is usually associated with high-speed spindles (15K to 40K rpm) and higher feedrates. It is also referred to as high velocity machining. They are one in the same, as both represent machining components in the most accurate and shortest cycle times. […]
Recent years have seen a number of articles on the benefits of closer integration of CAD and CAM. Of course, integrated CAD/CAM systems from a single company have been available since 1972. The new trend is for the integration of CAM systems into CAD software from a completely different developer. The decision for moldmakers is [...]
A better approach to CAM software development is to follow the logic that machinists themselves use when deciding how to machine a complex 5-axis part. Instead of fragmenting advanced 5-axis functionality, why not present programmers with a single programming process that is familiar and easy to understand? […]
Moldmakers were the first wave of manufacturers affected by the outsourcing trend that pushed manufacturing into China. But now we’re seeing that business is coming back . Culture and geography have helped provide a temporary stay for domestic moldmakers. But make no mistake, China and other offshore manufacturing industries will fix these problems, and they [...]
Examining the mold development process itself is equally important for determining how specific tools and development platforms can benefit a moldmaking operation. Such an assessment will reveal a fact that most moldmakers already know: […]