3D Print Your Own Mini Vacuum Former
There are so many ways to turn stock material into a usable part. One of the most interesting is vacuum forming, because it lets you create a three-dimensional part from flat plastic sheet. It is perfect for hobbyists and makers. If you want to give it a try, you can even 3D print your own mini vacuum former.
Vacuum forming is a really simple process. You grab a sheet of thermoplastic plastic, like HIPS or ABS, heat it up so that it is almost melted, then place it on a vacuum table over a form. The vacuum creates low pressure underneath the heated plastic, causing the higher atmospheric pressure to push the plastic against the form. Once the plastic is cool enough to resist deformation, you can pull it off the vacuum table and the form. Now you have a plastic part that matches the shape of the form!
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