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Belovac Vacuum Forming Machine (view source)
Revision as of 18:40, 26 February 2019
, 18:40, 26 February 2019no edit summary
This machine is working but requires maintenance and improvements.
This machine is working but requires maintenance and improvements.
==Usage==
== Vacuum Forming Process ==
'''Vacuum Forming''', is a type of '''Thermoforming''',which is the process of heating a plastic sheet and stretching it over a mold. As the plastic cools, it hardens, permanently retaining that shape.
'''Vacuum Forming''', is a type of '''Thermoforming''',which is the process of heating a plastic sheet and stretching it over a mold. As the plastic cools, it hardens, permanently retaining that shape.
Depending on which platen/frame that is used, the machine can accept 3 sizes of plastic sheets. 12inx12in, 24inx24in and 24inx48in. The usable area in those sheets after being secured in the frames being 9.25inx9.25in, 21inx21in, or 21.5inx45.5in.
Depending on which platen/frame that is used, the machine can accept 3 sizes of plastic sheets. 12inx12in, 24inx24in and 24inx48in. The usable area in those sheets after being secured in the frames being 9.25inx9.25in, 21inx21in, or 21.5inx45.5in.
The "buck," or form, may be any sturdy shape that can tolerate a bit of heat. Wood, MDF, metal, and polyester resin work well.
The "buck," mould or form, may be any sturdy shape that can tolerate a bit of heat. Wood, MDF, metal, and polyester resin work well.
Avoid shapes with hollows underneath because they have a tendency to collapse. Shapes with undercuts, or shapes taller than they are wide, will be very difficult to remove from the formed plastic. Paint, shellac, or epoxy resin can cause the hot plastic to stick.
Avoid shapes with hollows underneath because they have a tendency to collapse. Shapes with undercuts, or shapes taller than they are wide, will be very difficult to remove from the formed plastic. Paint, shellac, or epoxy resin can cause the hot plastic to stick.
===Usage Steps===
===Usage Steps===
The process consists essentially of inserting a thermoplastic sheet in a cold state into the clamp area, heating it to the desired temperature either with the heater, and then raising the mould from below. The trapped air is evacuated with the assistance of a vacuum system. Once cooled, the platform is lowered to release the formed plastic part from the mould.
The following instructions are an initial release of how to run the machine.
The following instructions are an initial release of how to run the machine. Please provide feedback or feel free to make edits.
{| class="wikitable" border="2"
{| class="wikitable" border="2"