Continuous
Production.
The Machinecraft ATF series of large format thermoforming machines is designed for high-speed production of thermoformed components. Its versatility is made possible by its large forming area, continuous roll-fed operation, and proven reliability for multi-shift production. Thermoformable material is reel-fed into a 2-stage pre-heating station and then vacuum formed. Multi-cavity formings are separated from the plastic web by a double-acting guillotine and pushed out via the delivery conveyor.
MACHINECRAFT ATF SERIES
5-Stage Continuous Process.
The ATF series operates as a fully automatic, continuous production line. After initial setup via the HMI operator panel, the machine runs unattended — no operator intervention required.
Roll Feed
Thermoformable material is fed from a reel via a dance roller for controlled, consistent material supply.
2-Stage Heating
Upper and lower ceramic heaters provide balanced temperature distribution. PID-controlled via HMI for precise zone management.
Vacuum Forming
High-capacity reservoir tank and rotary vane pump deliver instant vacuum. Plug assist available for deep-draw products.
Sheet Separation
Double-acting guillotine cleanly separates formed sheets from the continuous plastic web.
Delivery
Formed sheets are pushed onto a pallet or carton by the delivery conveyor for subsequent removal.
Key Features.
Automatic Roll-Fed Operation
Material is reel-fed into a 2-stage heating station and then vacuum formed. Formed sheets are separated and pushed out by the delivery conveyor for continuous, unattended production.
Accurate Servo Indexing
Spike chain transport system powered by servo-drive motor ensures quick and accurate material positioning with adjustable index length via HMI.
Dual Ceramic Heaters
Upper and lower ceramic heaters provide balanced temperature distribution to minimise material stress. PID-controlled via HMI for precise zone management across PVC, PS, APET, and GPET.
High Capacity Vacuum System
Large reservoir tank and rotary vane pump deliver instant vacuum supply regardless of production rate or material type. High-velocity turbo fans for rapid post-forming cooling.
Double-Acting Guillotine
Precision sheet separation system cleanly cuts formed sheets from the continuous web for consistent part quality.
HMI Operator Panel
User-friendly microprocessor controls and HMI panel for easy setup, adjustable heating temperature, index length, speed, timing, and error diagnostics. Fully automated after initial setup.
Universal Tooling Compatibility
Accepts both male and female moulds fitted to either top or bottom platen. Compatible with tooling from major European manufacturers.
Easy Front Access
Front entry for fitting forming tools and plug moulds offers easy accessibility for maintenance and mould changeovers.
What Can You Make?
The ATF series excels at high-volume, continuous production of thermoformed components. Its large forming area, roll-fed operation, and multi-cavity tooling compatibility make it the ideal choice for packaging, construction, automotive, and industrial applications.
Chocolate Box Inserts & Biscuit Trays
High-speed multi-cavity forming of chocolate box inserts, biscuit trays, and confectionery packaging. The roll-fed continuous operation and large forming area enable high-volume production with consistent cavity definition.
PVC / PS / APETRoofing & Ventilation Panels
Thermoformed roofing panels, ventilation grilles, and architectural cladding. Large format forming areas produce full-size panels that reduce installation joints and improve building envelope performance.
PS / PP / GPETHeat Exchange & Underfloor Heating Panels
Precision-formed heat exchanger plates and underfloor heating distribution panels. The ATF's accurate indexing and consistent temperature control ensure uniform wall thickness critical for thermal performance.
PS / PPDrainage & Underground Systems
Roof drainage channels, underground drainage cells, and cut-off walls for contaminated land remediation. Robust forming with deep draw capability for complex drainage geometries.
HDPE / PPTransit & Collating Trays
Straight-on trays, tote trays, and transit packaging for logistics and industrial distribution. Multi-cavity tooling on the large format platen maximises output per cycle.
PS / APET / GPETAutomotive Protection Covers
Door protection covers, underbody shields, and interior trim panels for automotive OEMs. The ATF's compatibility with European tooling standards makes it ideal for automotive tier suppliers.
ABS / PP / PEBlisters & Display Packaging
Blister packs for numerous applications, cosmetic box inserts, and retail display packaging. High-speed roll-fed operation with precision guillotine separation for clean, consistent edges.
PVC / APET / GPETCooling Tower Fills
Thermoformed cooling tower fill media and drift eliminators. The ATF's large forming area and continuous production capability are ideal for the repetitive, high-volume nature of cooling tower components.
PVC / PPUnderfloor Heating Panels.
The ATF series is ideal for thermoforming underfloor heating distribution panels — precision-formed plastic panels with integrated pipe channels that guide hot water tubing for radiant floor heating systems.
Technical Data.
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| Model | Forming Area | Material Width | Index Length | Max Depth | Heater Output | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ATF-8080 | 800 × 800 mm | 200 mm | 2500 mm | 200 mm | 38 kW | 3 tonnes |
| ATF-1210 | 1200 × 1000 mm | 200 mm | 3500 mm | 300 mm | 56 kW | 5 tonnes |
| ATF-1218 | 1200 × 1800 mm | 200 mm | 4500 mm | 300 mm | 73 kW | 7 tonnes |
⏱ Typical lead time: 16–24 weeks from order confirmation
📐 Pressure forming version (ATF-P) also available
Optional Features
ATF Machine Video.
Machinecraft ATF Series — Large Format Roll-Fed Thermoforming in Action
Frequently Asked Questions.
Ready for Continuous Production?
Talk to our engineering team about the ATF series for your roll-fed thermoforming application. We'll help you select the right model, configure optional features, and plan your production line.
Request a Forming Trial
Not sure if the ATF is right for your application? Bring your material to our factory in Ahmedabad and we'll form your actual parts — so you can see wall thickness, surface quality, and cycle time before you buy.
- No cost — free forming trial for serious buyers
- Your material, your part geometry, our machine
- Full technical report: wall thickness, cycle time, material waste
- Includes factory tour and engineering consultation
- Available for all machine series
Book Your Forming Trial
Fill in your material and part details and we'll schedule a trial at our Gujarat factory.
Response within 24 hours · No commitment required
