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Development of 3D-Printed Prototype Moulds for Thermoforming

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Abstract:

The use of 3D-printing simplifies and accelerates the development of moulds for a thermoforming process. This article examines several aspects of the effective design of 3D-printed polymer moulds. The focus is on prototyping and applications in engineering education. Experiments are conducted on PLA mould to determine the actual temperature loads and permanent deformations. Measures to improve the durability of the moulds are discussed and approaches to material and cost optimization are investigated. Examples of the use of PLA-moulds in thermoforming are presented.

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Info:

Periodical:

Key Engineering Materials (Volume 1047)

Pages:

161-174

Online since:

April 2026

Authors:

Jan Rösler*, Joerg Hornig-Klamroth, Leon Dähn

Keywords:

3D-Printed Moulds, Cost Reduction, Material Reduction, PLA, Prototyping, Thermoforming

Funder:

The publication of this article was funded by the Berlin University of Applied Sciences

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Permissions:

Creative Commons CC BY 4.0

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* - Corresponding Author

References

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