Tuesday, November 22, 2016

3 Types Of Packaging Crafted By Plastic Thermoforming

By Lenna Stockwell


If you are searching the world over for affordable types of packaging, why not consider going the plastic thermoforming route? Not only is thermoplastic highly versatile and strong, it also is quite affordable. There are plastics out there suitable for every type of packaging, no matter what the industry might be.

For those unfamiliar with the actual plastic thermoforming process, it all begins with a very thin sheet of plastic, usually between about .008" to about .080". These sheets will be place in a machine that is, not surprisingly, called a thermoformer. After entering the machine, the plastic will be heated until it is pliable, molded into the proper shape, cooled and then the extra plastic will be trimmed away. The extra bits are then recycled for another purpose.

Blister packaging is one of the most common types of packaging created by plastic thermoforming companies. Clamshell packaging and thermoform trays also are very common items that a thermoforming company creates for clients. Of course, many thermoforming companies also create actual products using thermoplastics, such as cups, utensils, parts and more.

While you might never have heard about blister packaging, you definitely have seen it and more than likely have several of these types of packages in your home right now. Many medications will be placed into a blister pack, which can be created to have a multitude of little cavities where each pill can be protected. Often this package will feature a combination of two materials, such as the foil and plastic medical blister packs. Sometimes, it might feature a cardboard backing with a thermoplastic front. For instance, you might see a cellular phone charger or perhaps pens stored in this type of package, allowing you to see the product.

A clamshell is the sister to the blister pack, and it is just a blister than folds over onto its other side and opens much like a clamshell. Browse the produce section of your favorite local grocery store and you will find clamshells filled with cookies, pastry, tomatoes, berries, grapes and other fresh foods. With a retail product, such as headphones or perhaps some type of tool, the clamshell packaging will be sealed together to ensure that no moisture will get in and that the package is tamper-proof.

Thermoform trays are yet another common product created via plastic thermoforming. Medical companies often use thermoform trays to hold various pieces of equipment as well as vials of medicine, syringes and other gear. Cookies, crackers and candies also often are placed in thermoform trays to keep them from breaking or becoming damaged. Anytime you have a product with several parts, a thermoform tray can be a good option as each cavity can be specially designed for each part, providing an excellent level of protection.




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