1. Deforming Processes
Vacuum Forming

2. Machines

3. 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.

4. The Process 1

5. The Process 2

6. The Process 3

7. The Process 4

8. The Process 5

9. The Process 6

10. The Process 7

11. The Process 8

12. The Process 9

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

14. 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.

15. 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

16. Webbing

17. 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    

18. Products

19. Animation