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How to Use a Simple Vacuum Forming Machine 

 

To make molds using a vacuum forming machine, complete the following steps:

 

  • Gather the vacuum forming machine, your vacuum source, frames, masking tape, and some heat resistent gloves.

 

                    

 

  • Take them to the area of your heat source, which will probably be your home oven.

 

  • Put a couple of blocks in the oven, spaced apart enough to hold the frames, while allowing enough room for the plastic to sag.

 

  • Preheat the oven to the temperature indicated for the type of plastic you will be forming.  Check with the manufacturer of the plastic.

 

  • While the oven is preheating, plug your vacuum into the side of the box and tape it off for a good seal.  Make sure the vacuum is plugged in and in a position where you can easily and quickly turn it on.
     

 

  • Put your item on the forming area exactly as you would like it to appear in the formed plastic.

 

  • Put the plastic in the frames and secure it with the binder clips.

 

  • Put on your gloves.

 

  • When the oven is ready, put your plastic in.  Watch it very carefully and don't walk away or become distracted.  At first, the plastic will tighten up and then it will begin to sag.  The amount you let the plastic sag is will vary on the item you are trying to form. 

 

  • Turn on the vacuum.

 

  • When the plastic is ready, quickly pull it out and put it on the vacuum forming machine.  Do this as fast as possible.

 

  • Let the vacuum suction work for a litlle while, then turn off the vacuum.

 

  • Let the plastic cool, then remove the frames.

 

  • Take the plastic out of the frames, and remove the object.

 

  • You should now have a formed piece of plastic or a mold.