Thermoplastic sheet forming

Vacuum forming for enclosures and technical parts

We manufacture enclosure parts, protective covers, panels and technical shells from thermoplastic sheet. Our work can include adapting the 3D model, preparing forming tooling, producing an initial sample and manufacturing a small batch.

We work with companies and sole traders and are VAT-registered. We do not accept private household orders.

Vacuum-formed plastic enclosure component beside its forming tool
AI-generated process illustration, not a photograph of ARKA26 products.

Manufacturing capabilities

Up to 430×230 mm

Forming area

Up to 160 mm

Maximum draw depth

0.3–3 mm

Sheet thickness

From samples to small batches

Prototypes, pilot runs and small production batches

Achievable part dimensions depend on geometry, draw depth, material thickness, process margins and the trimming method.

Parts we can manufacture

Enclosures and enclosure components

Formed enclosure parts for electronic, mechanical and other technical products.

Protective covers and shells

Lightweight external parts used to cover components, mechanisms, surfaces and internal assemblies.

Panels and lids

Front panels, protective or decorative panels, lids and covers made to the agreed geometry.

Fairings and complex-shaped parts

Thin-walled shells with smooth transitions, radii and a defined external surface.

Enclosure prototypes

Initial parts for checking geometry, assembly, component placement and appearance before starting a batch.

Production trays and process aids

Formed products for internal manufacturing processes.

Materials selected for the application

We work with thermoplastic sheets from 0.3 to 3 mm thick. Material selection considers stiffness, flexibility, transparency, appearance and operating conditions.

We confirm availability of the specific material, colour and thickness during project assessment. Formability also depends on the sheet manufacturer and formulation.

Design considerations

Geometry

We assess draw depth, radii, transitions, draft angles and material distribution across the surface.

Thickness after forming

The sheet thins as it stretches. Thickness distribution depends on the part’s shape, height and proportions.

Release from the mould

The geometry must allow the formed part to be removed without damage. Undercuts and enclosed features need separate assessment.

Trimming

Process margins must be added to the part dimensions. We agree the outline, holes and final trimming approach before making the tooling.

Tooling for the required geometry

We can work from an existing 3D model or develop tooling geometry from a technical brief. Rapidly produced tooling may be suitable for a prototype or a small batch. Tool material and service life are assessed against the geometry and planned production quantity.

How we start a vacuum-forming project

Preparation depends on the available documentation. Final trimming and holes are agreed separately before production.

  1. 01

    Review the brief

    A model, drawing, sample or description, quantities and your preferred deadline.

  2. 02

    Assess the geometry

    Check suitability for vacuum forming and identify any changes needed.

  3. 03

    Agree the material

    Confirm sheet type, initial thickness, colour, transparency and operating conditions.

  4. 04

    Prepare the tooling

    Develop or adapt the forming model to the agreed design.

  5. 05

    Make a sample

    Check shape, fits and appearance, and agree the trimming approach.

  6. 06

    Start the batch

    Record the tooling version and process parameters, then form and kit the parts.

What to send for an estimate

For confidential products, start with an anonymised description. Detailed documentation can follow after an NDA.

Terms for companies and sole traders →

B2B enquiry

Send a project brief

Attach a model or describe the part you need. Include dimensions, material, quantity and trimming requirements where known.

We work with companies and sole traders and are VAT-registered. We do not accept private household orders.

* Required fields. Phone number and attachments are optional.

Send a project brief