Materials for thermoformed trays, chosen for each tray's job
There's no single best material, only the one best suited to the tray's life cycle and function.
Three factors in every specification: material, thickness, and application
The first question is always: what is the life cycle of the product and of the tray? The answer determines the material, the thickness, and the design details.
Materials and typical uses
| Material | Properties | Typical uses |
|---|---|---|
| PS (HIPS) | Economical, with good formability. | Base material for black conductive trays and process trays. |
| PET and PETG | Clear and rigid. | Visual inspection, inserts, and blisters. |
| ABS | Resists impact and oil. | Returnable trays. |
| HDPE | Resists chemicals and impact. | Heavy-duty use. |
| PP | Withstands higher temperatures and chemicals. | Heat, infrared, or UV curing processes, such as curing paints and insulating resins. |
| ESD grades | Conductive or static dissipative, with topical or in-resin protection. | Boards, modules, and electronic components. |
Functional tray
A Termotray tray has to do the job it was designed for: protect, organize, speed up counting, and simplify transport. A single-use tray requires a different specification than a tray designed for multiple cycles inside the plant. Service life is defined at the design stage.
Virgin or recycled: both work
Recycled material is supplied to specification, with limits defined in advance, since it can show dark specks and lower gloss. For low-cost single-use trays, it's often the best choice. What doesn't work is using just any recycled material without lot control.
Corner thickness
In thermoforming, the sheet stretches and the corners end up as the thinnest points. Controlling how wall thickness is distributed, instead of reinforcing only where the part touches, is one of the things that sets Termotray apart.
Sustainability through less material and more use cycles
- Returnable
- Recyclable
- Material-saving design
Frequently asked questions
No. There's no single best tray material, only the one best suited to the tray's life cycle and function.
Both work. Recycled material is supplied to specification, with limits defined in advance, since it can show dark specks and lower gloss. For low-cost single-use trays, it's often the best choice.
Let our engineering team specify your tray material
Send us your part details and tell us how long the tray needs to last, and our engineers will recommend the appropriate material.