Glossary

Vacuum forming is one of the oldest and most common methods of processing plastic materials.

Vacuum processing involves heating a plastic sheet at high temperatures making it soft and pliable and draping it over a mould. A vacuum is then applied to draw the air out and suck the sheet to the mould. The sheet is then taken off the mould. 

Relatively deep parts can be formed if the formable sheet is mechanically or pneumatically stretched before bringing it into contact with the mould surface and applying the vacuum.

With the aid of 3D printed master patterns from technologies such as Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) in a high temp material, MNL can provide vacuum formed parts within a matter of days. In past years patterns were predominantly produced from either a CNC machined aluminium mould pattern or carved by hand in wood or structural foam. These processes would have taken much longer and would have been more costly too.

Traditional model making is the term used to describe various production methods to include handcrafting, machining, turning and fabrication. Traditional model making can be used in conjunction with other rapid prototyping processes or singularly. 

CNC machining stands for Computer Numerical Control machining

Also known as Computer Numerical Control machining and shortened to CNC machining, it’s an automated process in which material is removed from a block, such as plastic or metal, resulting in the finished part. It is also known as subtractive manufacturing. 

A concept model is a physical model that’s used to demonstrate a designer’s idea. It allows people to demonstrate their concept in a model format.

Looking at how your part will function when subjected to stresses. Here at MNL we pride ourselves on delivering the best possible service to our clients.