Thermoforming: Vacuum Forming (thermoplastics)

Question 1

Define vacuum forming

Answer 1

It uses air pressure to force a softened plastic sheet down over a mould

Question 2

What is vacuum forming used to make?

Answer 2

Simple parts from one sheet such as packaging, luggage, simple toys, car bumpers, signs

Question 3

Describe the 5 step process of vacuum forming briefly

Answer 3

1. A straight sheet of thermoplastocs is clamped at the edges, above a mould supported on a grid.
2. A heater is brought over the sheet and the heater softens the plastic sheet.
3. The mould is lifted up and the plastic sheet drapes over the mould.
4. The vacuum pump is turned on under the mould. Air is pulled through holes in the mould and the grid. Air pressure forces the softened sheet into the shape of the mould.
5. The plastics cools quickly. The moulded sheet is unclamped and lifted off the mould.

Question 4

Define thermoforming

Answer 4

Thermoforming means using heat to shape plastic over a mould