Fig. 1 shows a food container made from a single sheet of polymer material using a manufacturing process. The product is manufactured in large quantities us...
Question 1 Report
Fig. 1 shows a food container made from a single sheet of polymer material using a manufacturing process. The product is manufactured in large quantities using industrial processes. The choice of material is important for the function and appearance of the product. The designer has considered the target market and the product's intended use. It must meet safety standards and be suitable for its intended purpose.
It can hold a lot of weight. The lid lifts up and down. All the bits are smooth. It is held in place.
(a) Name the manufacturing process used to make this food container. [1]
(b) Name a suitable thermoplastic that could be used for this container. [1]
Answer Details
(a) Name the manufacturing process used to make this food container [1]
Vacuum forming [1]. In this process, a flat sheet of thermoplastic is heated until soft, then draped over or into a mould. A vacuum pump removes the air between the sheet and the mould, causing atmospheric pressure to force the plastic tightly against the mould surface. The diagram shows the clamping frame holding the sheet, the formed shape of the container, and the labels A and B indicating parts of the setup.
(b) Name a suitable thermoplastic that could be used for this container [1]
Any one from the following for [1]:
- High impact polystyrene (HIPS) - rigid, lightweight, and inexpensive; commonly used for food packaging trays, yoghurt pots, and disposable containers.
- PET (polyethylene terephthalate) - transparent, food-safe, and has good barrier properties against moisture and gases.
- Polypropylene (PP) - tough, heat-resistant (suitable for microwave use), and has good chemical resistance to foods and cleaning agents.
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