Abstract: An apparatus for vacuum embossing sheet thermoplastic material which utilizes an endless, seamless structure as the embossing surface. A sheet of heat-softened thermoplastic film is passed over an embossing screen, the embossing screen being supported by a support roll, a drive roll and two seal rolls. A vacuum is applied to the screen between the seal rolls to pull the film into contact with the screen thereby producing an embossed pattern on the film corresponding to the outer surface of the screen. After the film is removed from the endless, seamless screen the film is cooled to set the pattern in the film. The process produces an embossed film which has high strength, low surface gloss or light reflectance, and a deep embossed pattern.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for vacuum embossing sheet thermoplastic material which utilizes an endless, seamless structure as the embossing surface. A sheet of heat-softened thermoplastic film is passed over an embossing screen, the embossing screen being supported by two support rolls, a drive roll and two seal rolls. A vacuum is applied to the screen between the seal rolls to pull the film into contact with the screen thereby producing an embossed pattern on the film corresponding to the outer surface of the screen. After the film is removed from the endless, seamless screen the film is cooled to set the pattern in the film. The process produces an embossed film which has high strength, low surface gloss or light reflectance, and a deep embossed pattern.