Forming process where a first plastic sheet is heated and then pulled down against a mold by vacuum. Beskrivning The process Before processing can begin, a mold [1] is designed with the same shape as the finished workpiece. The mold is usually designed with a draft angle of 3 degrees to facilitate removal of the finished product from the mold. The plastic disc [2] to be processed is then clamped and a heater [3] then heats up the plastic sheet to a temperature suitable for processing. A vacuum pump is then activated to create a vacuum in the space [4] between the plastic sheet and the mold. This leads to the plastic disc being drawn down against the mold and assuming the shape of the mold. Shaping is often done with a mobile platform for the mold which is pressed up against the heated plastic before vacuum is activated. Vacuum forming Process photos Process films Advantages and disadvantages In comparison with alternative methods Cost effective: Low tool cost Useful for large batches Design Flexibility Time-efficient Deeper pieces may get warped Possible distortion of the bubbles and air pockets Slower cycle Limited forms can be produced
