1.Introduction

In the modern packaging industry, thermoforming films play a vital role in protecting, displaying, and preserving products. From food and medical packaging to consumer goods and electronics, selecting the right film ensures both functional performance and cost efficiency.

However, not all thermoforming films are created equal. Depending on your product’s barrier requirements, clarity, and forming depth, you’ll need to choose the appropriate film type—and pair it with the right thermoforming machine to achieve optimal results.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of thermoforming films, their properties, and tips for selecting the best thermoforming machine for your production needs.

2.What Are Thermoforming Films?

Thermoforming films are plastic sheets or rollstock materials that soften when heated and can be molded into specific shapes using a thermoforming machine. Once cooled, the film retains the desired shape—ideal for packaging trays, blister packs, clamshells, and containers.

In packaging, films are generally divided into:

Forming Films: Used as the bottom layer, shaped by the thermoforming machine to securely hold the product.

Non-Forming Films (Lidding Films): Serve as the top sealing layer, protecting contents while maintaining visibility and hygiene.

By combining forming and lidding films, manufacturers create robust, visually appealing packaging suitable for high-speed production with modern thermoforming machines.

3.Key Properties of Thermoforming Films

When choosing thermoforming films, manufacturers evaluate:

Clarity and gloss for retail visibility

Mechanical strength and puncture resistance

Barrier properties against oxygen, moisture, and UV

Sealing performance

Formability and draw depth (critical for thermoforming machine selection)

Compliance with food-contact or medical standards

These properties influence both the choice of film material and the thermoforming machine needed to achieve precise, high-quality packaging.

4.Common Types of Thermoforming Films

4.1 PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Films

PET is widely used for its clarity, rigidity, and recyclability, making it compatible with most thermoforming machines.

Features:

Excellent transparency and gloss

Strong impact and crack resistance

FDA-approved for food contact

Recyclable (PET and RPET available)

Applications:
Food trays, blister packs, bakery packaging, medical trays, and electronic component packaging.

4.2 PP (Polypropylene) Films

PP offers chemical resistance and heat stability, ideal for microwave-compatible or hot-fill applications on high-speed thermoforming machines.

Features:

Heat-resistant and microwavable

Lightweight and flexible

Chemical and moisture resistant

Cost-effective

Applications:
Ready-meal trays, dairy packaging, medical device packaging.

4.3 PS (Polystyrene) Films

PS is rigid, economical, and easy to form, making it ideal for mass production using thermoforming machines.

Applications: Disposable cups, trays, lids, and food service packaging.

4.4 PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Films

PVC provides strong sealing and clarity, compatible with standard thermoforming machines, though eco-friendly alternatives are gradually replacing it.

Applications: Pharmaceutical blister packs, clamshells, and consumer goods packaging.

4.5 PETG (Glycol-Modified PET) Films

PETG forms easily at lower temperatures, suitable for deep-draw applications on precision thermoforming machines.

Applications: Medical device packaging, cosmetics, and retail displays.

4.6 Multilayer Coextruded Films

Multilayer films combine materials (e.g., PA/PE, PET/PE, EVOH/PE) to provide strength, barrier protection, and sealability. Advanced thermoforming machines are often required for consistent results.

Applications: Vacuum packaging, MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging), and high-barrier food or pharmaceutical packaging.

5.How to Choose the Right Thermoforming Film and Machine

When selecting films and thermoforming machines, consider these factors:

Selecting the correct film and machine combination ensures safety, shelf life, and high-quality presentation.

6.Emerging Trends in Thermoforming Films

Sustainable and recyclable films (RPET, mono-material PE) compatible with modern thermoforming machines

Bio-based films from renewable sources

High-barrier EVOH layers for extended shelf life

Digital printing and customization for brand differentiation

Modern manufacturers are integrating advanced thermoforming machine technology with eco-friendly films to achieve efficient, high-quality packaging.

7.Conclusion

Thermoforming films are essential for safe, attractive, and functional packaging. Pairing the right film type with an appropriate thermoforming machine ensures efficiency, sustainability, and product protection throughout the supply chain. Whether you need high-barrier multilayer films or crystal-clear PETG, understanding film properties and machine compatibility is key to successful packaging operations.

Ready to optimize your packaging process? Contact our experts today for a consultation and find the perfect thermoforming machine for your application.

8.FAQ

What are thermoforming films used for?
To create rigid or semi-rigid packaging such as trays, blisters, and clamshells using a thermoforming machine.

Which thermoforming film offers the best clarity?
PET and PETG provide excellent clarity and gloss and form perfectly on most thermoforming machines.

Are thermoforming films recyclable?
Yes. Many films, including PET and mono-material PE, are recyclable and compatible with standard thermoforming machines.

What are barrier thermoforming films?
Films like EVOH or PA prevent oxygen and moisture entry, often requiring precise settings on advanced thermoforming machines.