In this process, a polypropylene sheet is softened by a heating mechanism; by the application of a pressure differential the sheet adopts the form of a cold mold, where it solidifies and it is finally removed. The thermoforming process has different variations in order to obtain the part that is required. Pressure can be completely applied by vacuum or it can be aided by atmospheric pressure. In other cases, a kind of piston or plug is used which helps the sheet adopt the required shape, or a male-female mold that provides the exact form of the piece can also be utilized. The combination of some of these methods is frequently used depending on the final features of the part.

Among the typical applications obtained by the thermoforming process we can find food containers, disposable glasses and plates, containers, trays and blister, among others.

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