CMS for thermoforming
Thermoforming is a versatile and highly efficient technology, which consists of heating a plastic sheet to make it flexible, and then using vacuum or pressure to shape it on a mold. Once cooled, the sheet maintains the desired shape, resulting in a wide range of products, from simple trays or containers to custom solutions for highly specialized sectors.
Thermoforming types
Thermoforming is divided into two main categories: thin gauge and heavy gauge.
Thin gauge
“Thin gauge” thermoforming refers to thin and flexible sheets less than 1.5 mm thick. The main applications of this type are production of packaging, trays and consumer items in general.
Heavy gauge
“Heavy gauge” thermoforming, on the other hand, refers to thick sheets, generally thicker than 1.5 mm. This process is ideal for production of dashboards, parts for agricultural and earthmoving machinery, bathtubs, spas and components for the aerospace sector.
The pros of thermoforming
The thermoforming process offers the high levels of customization and precision needed to meet the rigorous quality and functionality demands of companies operating in areas characterized by high technology and innovative designs.
The key points of this technology are:
Rapid prototyping: The ability to develop prototypes quickly allows companies to accelerate the product development cycle, thus reducing time to market and enabling immediate feedback on the design.
Design flexibility: Thermoforming offers considerable design freedom to create complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with other production methods.
Low costs: Compared to other manufacturing processes, thermoforming requires lower initial investment, making it economically advantageous for medium- or large-volume production.
CMS, innovation in thermoforming
CMS has emerged as an innovative leader, transforming the landscape of this production system with significant technological implementations. CMS machines are designed to deliver consistent, high-quality results regardless of operator experience, with a strong emphasis on precision and reliability.
CMS machines do not just feature improved mechanical efficiency, but also incorporate advanced software to assist operators in setup and process management. These tools can process data in real time to optimize machine settings and ensure optimal results in every production cycle. Integrated machine learning algorithms offer continuous improvement to reduce errors and increase productivity
The various thermoforming types
There are three main thermoforming technologies: vacuum forming, pressure forming and twin sheet forming, each of which has specific characteristics and advantages.
Vacuum forming is generally the most common method. It consists of heating a plastic sheet until it is malleable and then applying it to a mold, while removing air through a suction system. Once that material has cooled, it retains the shape of the mold and can then be finished. With low tooling costs, fair design flexibility and faster cycle times than other molding processes, vacuum forming is ideal for sectors such as production of agricultural and earthmoving machinery, components for airliners and cars, hot tubs and luggage.
Pressure forming uses a combination of vacuum and air pressure to press the plastic sheet against the mold with greater force. This achieves high-quality aesthetic finishes, with better defined details, complex textures and embossing or lettering directly on the workpiece surface. This type of thermoforming is suitable for making medical equipment, panels and dashboards for the automotive and aerospace sectors, and in general for plastic components that require greater attention to detail.
Finally, twin-sheet forming technology involves using two plastic sheets heated and formed simultaneously on two separate molds, which are then joined to create a hollow structure. This results in an extremely durable, lightweight product, with applications ranging from the automotive to the aerospace sectors.
The main application sectors of thermoforming
Agriculture and heavy equipment
There is a crucial need for robust and reliable components in the agricultural sector. Its ability to produce parts with complex, high-strength geometries makes thermoforming perfectly suited to these needs. CMS machines are able to create components that withstand the wear and extreme conditions typical of agricultural operations.
Automotive sector
The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with a growing focus on energy efficiency and emission reduction. Thermoforming contributes to these goals by producing the lightweight, aerodynamic components needed to improve vehicle performance. CMS machines provide the versatility needed to respond efficiently to rapid changes in automotive design.
Aerospace and aircraft
Accuracy is of paramount importance in the aerospace industry. Components must comply with very tight tolerances to ensure safety and performance. CMS meets these challenges with solutions that offer the unparalleled precision and reliability needed in production of interiors and structural components.
Other industrial sectors
Reusable packaging
CMS offers thermoforming solutions for production of reusable containers. These types of packaging are designed to be strong and durable, while reducing environmental impact and improving sustainability.
Medical equipment
The pressure forming method of thermoforming is used to produce medical equipment parts that require greater attention to detail, quality and strength.
Pools and spas
CMS thermoforming solutions are widely used in production of pools and spas to ensure durable solutions designed to cope with high humidity environments and high stress.
Additional benefits of choosing CMS
CMS thermoforming solutions are not limited to just machine performance, but offer a range of additional features designed to optimize every stage of the production process and increase efficiency, control and quality.
Cloud applications
CMS has integrated cloud applications so that technicians can monitor and manage thermoforming processes remotely. This not only improves operational efficiency, but also allows data to be collected and analyzed in real time, further optimizing the production process.
Artificial intelligence (AI) tools
CMS integrates artificial intelligence tools to improve machine precision and efficiency. AI algorithms analyze the data collected during the thermoforming process to identify any inefficiencies and recommend possible improvements. This can reduce waste, optimize material use and increase final product quality.
Machine learning and data collection
CMS exploits machine learning algorithms to continuously optimize thermoforming processes. The data collected by machines at various operating sites is analyzed to identify patterns and trends so that potential problems can be predicted and prevented before they occur. This data-driven approach ensures greater reliability and reduces machine downtime.
CMS, not just a supplier but a technology partner
CMS stands as a reliable technological partner for companies that want advanced solutions in the field of thermoforming. With its high-precision machines, dedicated software and state-of-the-art tools, CMS offers a complete package that guarantees flexibility, speed and quality in the production process.