Vacuum forming is a very economical method for producing plastic parts. The vacuum forming process can produce parts in various configurations in small and large quantities at a reasonable price. This process involves the controlled heating of plastic materials to a temperature where it is flexible enough to be altered by the shape of a mold with the help of vacuum. The mold can be made of wood, fiberglass/epoxy or aluminum. In this method, the heated plastic sheet is forced against the mold by the air pressure differential created by pulling a vacuum between the sheet and the mold.
Vacuum forming can be used for projects like:
There are several secondary processes available for vacuum formed parts. Finishing prior to customer delivery can include removing excess material, assembly, silk screening, cutouts, and more.