Vacuum Forming

Step 1

The vacuum forming process starts with a sheet of plastic which is clamped into position.

Step 2

The sheet is then heated by two heaters one above the sheet and one below the sheet.

This method is called sandwich heating and gives a more consistent temperature throughout the sheet avoiding any cold areas which in turn gives you a sharper and more defined vacuum form.

Step 3

Once the sheet is heated to the correct temperature it will become pliable, the vacuum forming tool is raised and a vacuum is applied which pulls the now malleable plastic sheet down onto the vacuum forming tool

Step 4

The vacuum is kept on while the plastic is cooled using large fans and water spray so that it retains the shape off the vacuum forming tool.

Step 5

Once the plastic is cooled the vacuum is released and the plastic part removed by gently applying a short blast of air between the vacuum forming tool and the plastic component.