The Vacuum Form Process
A “mold” (solid form with many small holes drilled in it) is made of the desired shape and placed on the machine’s bed (table). A sheet of thermo-formable plastic is secured to the frame of the machine which is then heated. The plastic sheet is heated until it is soft, pliable and reaches the optimal forming temperature. Once this occurs the plastic is rapidly lowered and vacuum suction is applied; pulling out the excess air while drawing the plastic tightly against the mold. Then rapid cooling of the plastic allows it to be released from the mold and retain its shape. The end result is a hollow duplicate of your mold. The possibilities are endless!