5-Axis CNC Trimming for Thermoformed Plastic Parts

Forming a plastic part is only the beginning. Clean, accurate trimming is just as important in delivering a finished component that fits, functions, and looks the way it should. Arrowhead’s 5-axis CNC trimming services for thermoformed plastic parts provide the precision and consistency needed for production-ready results.

With decades of experience in heavy-gauge plastic forming, we know that the quality of the final trim can make or break a part. Our in-house CNC trimming capabilities help ensure that every part meets dimensional requirements, regardless of volume or complexity. From one-off prototypes to full production runs, we deliver parts that are ready for the next step.

Why CNC Trimming is Essential for Thermoformed Parts

Even with high-quality tooling and forming processes, most thermoformed parts require secondary trimming. While some simple shapes can be trimmed by hand, more complex or repeatable parts call for CNC precision.

Arrowhead programs all 5-axis CNC trim paths in-house. Whether we start with a CAD model or develop trim lines from a physical part, our process ensures accurate, repeatable results. This gives our customers confidence that their parts will fit properly and perform as intended every time.

Types of Parts We Trim

Arrowhead provides 5-axis CNC trimming for a wide variety of thermoformed plastic components, including but not limited to:

• Dashboards, consoles, and interior panels
• Enclosures, housings, and shrouds
• Dunnage trays and material handling containers
• Machine guards and safety covers
• Kiosks, display components, and POS housings
• Structural panels and access covers for vehicles or equipment

Whether your part includes curves, recesses, or multiple trim surfaces, our CNC process ensures a clean, uniform result.

Benefits of 5-Axis CNC Trimming

Consistent Edge Quality

CNC trimming removes manual variation, resulting in clean, accurate edges across every part in a production run.

Access to Complex Geometry

With five-axis movement, our equipment can reach surfaces that are difficult to access with manual tools or simpler machines.

CAD-Based Accuracy

When applicable, we can use CAD models to create precise trim paths that align with your design, which helps ensure fit and function.

Teach Pendant Programming

In addition to offering CAD driven offline programming, Arrowhead can create CNC trim paths based off tracing the trim lines, hole locations and other features of a physical part. This technique of generating trim features with a teach pendant has proven to be invaluable in those situations where a CAD model is not available or the CAD model is not up to date with the latest revision of the physical part.

Faster Throughput

CNC trimming improves production efficiency by reducing manual labor and speeding up the finishing process.

Integrated Workflow

Our CNC trimming service works seamlessly with our thermoforming process, allowing parts to move quickly from forming to finish.

Built for Thermoforming Projects

At Arrowhead, trimming is a key part of our thermoforming workflow. Formed parts often move directly from our thermoforming machines to the CNC router, reducing lead time and simplifying the process for our customers. This capability helps ensure that even the most complex formed components are finished with precision and ready for assembly, installation, or shipment.

Flat Sheet Trimming Applications

In addition to trimming formed plastic parts, Arrowhead also supports standalone CNC trimming projects for flat sheet applications. This includes precision trimming for parts like windows, lenses, protective covers, and other flat-profile components. These projects often require clean edges, tight tolerances, and consistent dimensions—especially when parts need to mount into frames or integrate with assemblies.

Whether you’re working with clear polycarbonate, acrylic, or textured thermoplastics, our 5-axis CNC systems provide the accuracy and repeatability needed for flat sheet trimming. If you have flat parts that require custom cutouts, mounting holes, or perimeter shaping, we can help you complete them with confidence and consistency.