Vacuum forming produces a part that retains the excess sheet material — known as flash — around its perimeter. Trimming this flash accurately and consistently is an essential part of the production process, and the method used significantly affects the quality and cost of the finished part. At Jabro Games, we use CNC routing for precision trimming of vacuum formed components.
Why Trimming Matters
The accuracy of the trim line determines whether parts fit correctly into their intended application, whether they present cleanly on a retail shelf, and whether they mate accurately with other components in an assembly. Inconsistent trimming causes variation between parts that can create assembly problems and an unprofessional appearance.
Hand Trimming
For low-volume prototype and short-run work, hand trimming using knives, scissors, or hand routers is a practical and cost-effective option. It requires skilled operators and is subject to more variation than machine trimming, but for quantities where programming a CNC machine is not economically justified, it delivers acceptable results.
CNC Routing
CNC routing uses a computer-controlled cutting tool that follows a programmed path to trim each part to precise, repeatable dimensions. Once programmed, the CNC machine delivers consistent results across the entire production run, regardless of operator skill. It is the preferred trimming method for production quantities where consistency and quality are paramount.
5-Axis CNC for Complex Geometry
For parts with complex three-dimensional trim lines — curved edges that do not follow a single plane — 5-axis CNC routing follows the contour of the part surface, delivering accurate trimming that would be impossible with conventional flat-bed cutting. This capability is particularly valuable for technical and aesthetic applications where trim quality is visible to the end user.
To find out more about our trimming capabilities, contact Jabro Games at jabrogames.com.