Since usually only one surface of the sheet is in contact with the mold, wall thickness control and desing details are limited. Decorative details are possible with the use of textures or embossed sheets. Some scrap results from in-mold or secondary trimming of the clamped edges of the molded plastic sheet. Process is useful for replacing sheet metal housings or similar metal components that are relatively simple. This low-volume process with low with low tooling costs but high labor costs produces moderate part costs.
Parts have low internal stresses therefore good physical properties to work with.
Lead time and mold changes are relatively short and easy to perform. Large part don't increase costs. Labor required for trimming scraps and other operations can be very costly. Quality control can be issue. Control of wallthickness is difficult to fully control.