Custom PS (Polystyrene) Vacuum Forming & Thermoforming Services

Polystyrene (PS) is a popular material choice for a wide range of products, thanks to its versatility and cost-effectiveness. At SME Plastic, we specialize in custom PS vacuum forming and thermoforming, offering high-quality solutions for various industries.

Get A Quote

What is PS (Polystyrene)?

PS is a lightweight, rigid thermoplastic material known for its excellent moldability. This makes it ideal for creating complex shapes and designs using vacuum forming techniques. PS is also

Cost-effective: PS is generally more affordable than other thermoplastics like ABS or acrylic.
Lightweight: Its low density makes it easy to handle and transport.
Non-toxic: PS is safe for food contact, making it suitable for food packaging applications.

However, it’s important to note that PS has limitations in terms of impact resistance and temperature resistance compared to some other materials.

What is PS (Polystyrene) Vacuum Forming?

Vacuum forming is a manufacturing process where a sheet of heated PS plastic is draped over a mold and a vacuum is created underneath, pulling the plastic tightly against the mold’s shape. Once cooled, the PS sheet retains the mold’s form, creating a custom-shaped product.

Cost-effective: PS is generally more affordable than other thermoplastics like ABS or acrylic.
Lightweight: Its low density makes it easy to handle and transport.
Non-toxic: PS is safe for food contact, making it suitable for food packaging applications.

However, it’s important to note that PS has limitations in terms of impact resistance and temperature resistance compared to some other materials.

Vacuum Forming & Thermoforming Grade PS (Polystyrene) Sheet

We utilize various grades of PS sheets for vacuum forming, each with unique properties:

General Purpose Polystyrene (GPPS): A cost-effective option offering good stiffness and clarity, suitable for general packaging and disposable products.

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS): Offers improved impact resistance compared to GPPS, making it suitable for applications requiring greater durability.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS): A lightweight and insulating foam commonly used for protective packaging and insulation purposes.

Comparing PS (Polystyrene) Material Properties for Vacuum Forming

The table below provides a quick comparison of common PS materials used in vacuum forming

Material	Cost	Impact Resistance	Temperature Resistance	Clarity	Applications
GPPS	Low	Low	Low	Excellent	Disposable cups, trays, packaging
HIPS	Medium	Medium	Low	Good	Protective packaging, housings
EPS	Low	Low	Low	Opaque	Protective packaging, insulation

Key Benefits of PS (Polystyrene) Vacuum Forming

Cost-Effective

PS vacuum forming is a cost-effective manufacturing process, especially for large production runs.

Design Flexibility

The process allows for intricate designs and complex shapes, making it ideal for custom solutions.

Fast turnaround times

Vacuum forming offers relatively quick production times, especially compared to injection molding.

Lightweight yet durable

PS products are lightweight, making them easy to handle and transport, while still offering sufficient strength for many applications.

Applications of PS (Polystyrene) Vacuum Forming

PS vacuum forming finds applications in various industries, including:

Automotive

Interior components, dashboards, door panels, protective trays for parts.

Food Packaging

Trays, clamshells, containers for food products.

Electronics

Protective packaging for electronics, housings for small appliances.

Medical

Trays, containers, and disposable medical components.

Consumer Goods

Packaging for toys, cosmetics, and other consumer products.

SME’s PS (Polystyrene) Vacuum Forming Product Gallery

Custom Anti-Static PS/PET/ABS/PP Circuit Board Vacuum Forming Transit Trays

Disposable PS/PET Vacuum Formed Seedling Trays with Multiple Sizes and Cavities

Customizable PS PET PVC Anti-static Electronic Turnover Suction Tray

Customizable PS & ABS Vacuum-Formed Flower Pots and Seedling Trays

Get a Custom Polystyrene Vacuum Forming Quote

At SME Plastic, we are your trusted partner for high-quality and cost-effective PS vacuum forming solutions. Contact us today for a custom quote and discuss your project requirements with our expert team.