About American Thermoform

American Thermoform Corporation (ATC) was founded in 1962 with the introduction of a revolutionary product – the Thermoform 55 Brailon Duplicator, also known as the “Thermoform machine.” This innovative system, combined with its specially formulated sheeting material, Brailon, allowed users to produce multiple copies of braille quickly and efficiently. Before its introduction, braille documents had to be created one sheet at a time using a Perkins Brailler or slate and stylus.

The Thermoform machine was distributed worldwide, and its applications quickly expanded beyond braille duplication to include durable tactile graphics. This innovation made braille textbooks and reading materials more accessible and affordable for the blind and visually impaired community across the globe. Over the years, upgrades have maintained the Thermoform machine’s position as the most reliable and cost-effective solution for producing both original and duplicated braille and tactile graphics.

As high-tech, computer-based braille embossers and braille printers emerged, ATC adapted to these technological advances. The company developed specialized braille paper and plastic labeling materials to optimize these new systems. Today, ATC continues to offer the highest-quality, affordably priced braille paper and braille labels, remaining the largest worldwide producer of both products.

In addition to its consumables, ATC is the parent company of Braillo Norway, a manufacturer of the finest production and commercial braille embossers in the industry. ATC sells, supports, and maintains these machines across North America, while Braillo maintains dedicated distributors and support centers worldwide. More information about Braillo can be found at braillo.com.

Recognizing the importance of tactile graphics in education, ATC also became the parent company of Zychem Limited, manufacturer of the award-winning Swell Form machine and Swell Touch paper. This innovative system expanded access to tactile teaching materials for the blind and visually impaired. More information about Zychem and its products is available at zychemltd.com.

Since 1962, ATC has pursued a single goal: to develop and provide high-quality, affordable products that enrich the lives of individuals who are blind or visually impaired. This mission continues to guide the company today and into the future.