Deforming Processes Vacuum Forming

Machines

The Process A mould is placed on the platen which is lowered. A plastic sheet is clamped into place above the mould. The heater is pulled over the plastic sheet. When the plastic sheet has softened the platen is moved up. A pump expels the air which creates a vacuum causing the plastic to be forced over the mould. The platen is lowered and the mould removed. Waste material is trimmed.

The Process 1

The Process 2

The Process 3

The Process 4

The Process 5

The Process 6

The Process 7

The Process 8

The Process 9

The Advantages Ideal for batch production. Can be automated. Moulds can be modified.

Disadvantages Difficult to achieve uniform thickness of material as it is stretched over mould. Webbing will occur with poorly designed moulds. A draft angle needs to be incorporated into the design so the mould can be removed. Usually requires trimming or cutting to size.

Materials Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene ABS Polyester Copolymer PETG Polystyrene PS Polycarbonate PC Polypropylene PP Polyethylene (sheet and foamed sheet) PE Polyvinyl Chloride PVC Acrylic PMMA

Webbing

Products Baths & Shower Trays Yoghurt Pots Ski-Boxes Boat Hulls Machinery Guards Vehicle Door Liners Refrigerator Liners Sandwich Boxes Parts of vehicle cabs Exterior Shop Signs    

Products

Animation http://www.bpf.co.uk/downloads/files/vacuumform1.swf