Deli containers
What's the difference between thermoformed and injection-molded plastic?
Thermoformed plastic is a malleable plastic material heated to high temperatures and then formed into a mold using the thermoforming method. Its advantages include reduced costs, rapid production, design flexibility, and lightweight. However, it has limitations such as restricted thickness, less precise dimensional tolerances, sensitivity to heat, and limited material options. Additionally, thermoformed PET is often less clear. This technique is also challenging to automate for container filling and lid closure. Finally, secondary operation printing produces high-quality results, making it suitable for both bulk packaging and take-out food items.
Injection-molded plastic offers significant advantages, including high dimensional accuracy, fast production for large quantities, a variety of materials, and the ability to create complex shapes. However, it also presents a major drawback, such as high initial costs for molds. The rigidity of injected plastic enables effortless automation and ensures a secure seal, allowing the containers to be reused by consumers for up to 300 times. Additionally, IML printing is done in one step of excellent quality production. Finally, the plastic is clearer and very robust as it is microwave-safe, dishwasher-safe, and freezer-safe.
Keep in mind :
Thermoformed plastic is ideal for simple to moderately complex shapes in small to medium quantities, offering reduced initial costs and design flexibility, although it may have limitations in terms of dimensional precision and material choice. In contrast, injected plastic is better suited for high-volume parts requiring high dimensional accuracy and complex shapes, despite higher initial costs for molds. Additionally, injected plastic allows for easy automation due to its more rigid structure and tight closure.
