The Rheology Research Center Lecture/The Mohs Lecture by Placon

Thermoforming processes flat plastics sheeting into complex shapes by first melting the sheet and then shaping it. While melting, the sheet can sag under its own weight, causing multiple issues during manufacturing and end use. We model sag analytically and test the model by experimental measurements. We also provide design camber inequalities and basis for standardized measurement of sag.