This session we will together start to build a vacuum forming machine. We will complete it later at Hacklab on Wednesdays during open house hours.
To-do
- Draw the box and a hole for the vacuum cleaner
- Laser cut the parts
- Get/buy/make an oven for the plastic and control/read the temperature
- Buy suitable plastic sheets (Thermoplastics such as Polystyrene @250°C, PETG (clear, deforms faster), or ABS. Common thickness is 60/1000″ or 1,5 mm)
- Design and 3D-print an object to be used as a mold (we can also try using everyday objects)
- Assemble and test
- Ensure centering. Frame against gasket or plastic against platen?
- Look for an infrared thermometer
Notes
- Required length of sheet = width * 2 * height of object
- Remove the plastic when it has cooled to ~70°C or it might stick to hard
- Pinching -> reduce the heat
- Drill holes in the buck (the object) if air gets trapped
- If using a wooden buck, sand it smooth first with grit 400 or smoother sand paper
- Baby powder could be a good mold release
- Plastic polish can be used to polish the vacuum formed item
Links
A4 HIPS 0.5mm and 0.75mm white
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=diy+vacuum+forming
Using vacuum forming to make casting molds for chocolate or jello: