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Forming

Forming

Innovative Plastic Forming Techniques

At IPFL, we specialize in the art of plastic forming, a process involving the heating and molding of plastic parts into specific shapes. Utilizing a range of techniques such as vacuum & drape forming, blowing, pressing, and line bending, we provide an array of plastic parts with minimal tooling costs. Our expertise in plastic forming allows us to cater to diverse applications, delivering high-quality, precisely shaped components.

Forming Techniques at IPFL

Drape Forming: This method involves heating acrylic to its forming temperature and draping it over a cold mold to shape it. Ideal for creating smooth, curved surfaces on acrylic parts.
Line Bending: A technique used to form a sharp bend in plastic sheets, where the radius of the bend is controlled by the width of the heated area. This versatile process is used for a variety of applications, from simple covers and housings to more complex fabrications.
Blow Forming & Pressing: Involves clamping a heated acrylic sheet onto a mold and applying compressed air to shape it. Alternatively, the sheet can be drawn into a chamber using vacuum pressure. This method is excellent for creating hollow, rounded parts.

Why Choose IPFL for Plastic Forming?

Versatility in Applications: Our forming processes are adept at creating a wide range of parts, suitable for various uses across multiple industries.
55 Years of Expertise: With five decades of experience, IPFL has refined its techniques to ensure the highest quality in every formed component.
Cost-Effective Solutions: We minimize tooling costs while maximizing the quality and precision of the formed parts.

Plastic Forming Materials

ABS Machining – Impactful Strength & Adaptability

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a high impact, tough material available with a range of options and properties.
Appearance
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
Vacuum Formers UK

Acrylic

Acrylic's properties include high machinability, good thermal properties for a broad range of temperatures, and the distortion-free light transmission.
Appearance
Transparent
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
plastic laser welding cnc routing

Corian

This beautiful looking material is composed of acrylic with mineral additives giving it a stone-like appearance.
Appearance
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
Corian material

HDPE

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a high strength to density ratio polymer which is generally considered a low cost solution to many applications.
Appearance
Tough smooth finish
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
hdpe uk plastics

Mylar

Mylar is the branded group of Polyethylene Terephthalate films and plastic sheets from Dupont. Supplied in a variety of different styles and finishes there are many applications which this materials can be applied.
Appearance
Clear sheet
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
mylar uk plastics

PET-G

Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PET-G), is a light, semi-rigid material with good impact resistance. With its low water absorbtion it is commonly used in aqueous environments and can be utilised through both machining and 3D printing processes.
Appearance
Various
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
petg uk plastics

PTFE

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), often known as Teflon, is well know for its low surface coefficient which makes it ideal for many industrial and medical applications.
Appearance
Tough smooth finish
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
PTFE Boxes, Cases and Enclosures

PVC

PolyvinylChloride (PVC) is a well known and widely used plastic polymer which comes in two basic forms with slightly varying properties.
Appearance
Various
Toughness
Flexibility
Temperature Resistant
Technical Information
custom PVC plastic Enclosure manufacturer UK
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Applications of Plastic Forming

IPFL’s plastic forming services are ideal for:

  • Creating Complex Shapes: We excel at producing parts with intricate designs, utilizing our advanced forming techniques.
  • Diverse Industry Needs: From industrial covers and housings to bespoke consumer products, our plastic forming services meet a wide array of needs.
  • Custom Fabrication: We adapt our forming processes to your specific project requirements, ensuring tailored solutions for your unique applications.

IPFL’s commitment to innovation and quality in plastic forming has been a cornerstone of our services for over 55 years. Whether your project requires simple bends or complex 3D shapes, our plastic forming techniques ensure precision, efficiency, and reliability.