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Unmanned Systems and Vehicle Components

Productive Plastics is a leading custom plastic thermoforming component supplier for the unmanned systems industry, including unmanned aerial vehicles - UAV, unmanned ground vehicles - UGV, remotely operated vehicles - ROV, and unmanned underwater vehicles - UUV. The plastic thermoforming process (vacuum forming and pressure forming) is uniquely suited to the emerging needs of the unmanned system and vehicle industry, offering extremely lightweight and durable materials, precise manufacturing, and low cost production of unmanned system components. Plastic thermoforming also features a high level of design flexibility and the capability to produce large sized parts at a very attainable cost.

Unmanned Systems and Vehicle Common Thermoforming Applications

Plastic thermoformed UAS and UAV parts can be ideal for a wide variety of industry applications and Productive Plastics currently manufactures thermoplastic component parts for leading original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of unmanned systems such as:
  • Fuselage components
  • Radome covers
  • Engine cowlings
  • Motor enclosures
  • Battery covers and enclosures
  • Sensor enclosures
  • Communication equipment enclosures
  • Flight control surfaces
  • Display Enclosures
  • Exterior panels and hatches
Unmanned aerial vehicle

Plastic Thermoforming Advantages for Unmanned systems and vehicle components

Plastic thermoforming provides an economical and lightweight solution for autonomous vehicle components. Thermoforming delivers parts rivaling injection molding and structural foam molding at a fraction of the total project cost. In addition, industry formulated thermoplastic materials can meet the most stringent global safety standards and your application's performance requirements. Combine these features with the incredible design flexibility of thermoplastic and the list of advantages is numerous.
  • Lightweight Material
    Thermoplastic is up to 40% lighter than fiberglass, 6 times lighter than stainless steel, and 1/2 the weight of aluminum
  • Lower Operating Costs & More Effecient
    Lightweight material equates to higher fuel or battery efficiency and reduced maintenance costs
  • RTL, EMI, & RFI Shielding
    Thermoplastic material options with RTL, EMI, & RFI shielding properties, additives, or applied films are available
  • UV and Extreme Temperature Protection
    Thermoplastic material options available with high UV resistance and can withstand harsh environments and temperatures
  • Durable and Impact Resistant
    Rugged thermoplastic material can withstand impacts and is less likely to dent, chip, or crack
  • Aesthetic Designs
    Modern and streamlined design capabilities and flexibility at lower cost
  • Variety of Surface Finishes
    Material and in mold options for integral color, textures, patterns, or branding
  • Large Parts at Low Cost
    Large part capable up to 96″ x 120″ with low upfront tooling investment
  • Moderate Volumes
    Ideal process and competitive cost for EAU of 250-3000 parts

Unmanned Systems and Vehicle Manufacturing with Productive Plastics

Productive Plastics has been manufacturing custom thermoformed components and project solutions since 1955. Over 65 years of expertise in pressure and vacuum forming, thermoforming design, tooling engineering, and surface finishing. Our team is constantly evolving and streamlining our processes and manufacturing systems to maximize the advantages of plastic thermoforming and minimize the cost and production time for your application.
Autonomus Ground Vehicle

Looking for more technical information?

Download the Thermoforming Design Guide, Process Comparisons, Conversion Guides, and other useful thermoforming information from our technical resource library.

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