What is a Vacuum Forming Mold

Vacuum forming molds are the basis of the vacuum forming process and have a number of applications across a wide variety of industries. They are made from a variety of materials and can even be used by hobbyists to create toys and crafts. Traditionally used in heavy industries to design prototypes and produce thousands of models, vacuum forming machines and molds have become increasingly popular with individuals wanting to produce their own works.

Identification

According to Formech International, a producer of vacuum forming machines, molds can range from simple carved wooden pieces to complicated aluminum forms that can be used to create items such as car dashboards or airline cockpit controls.

Materials

Plaster and wood molds are used for low temperature plastics requiring few parts, while jobs requiring higher temperature plastics and industrial production numbers use aluminum based resins or aluminum molds. Realistically, almost anything can be used as a mold so long as it can withstand the temperatures of the plastic being used, according to Professor Ted Selker of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (see Resources).

Process

The process for using a vacuum forming mold is fairly simple. The mold is put in place on the machine first, on an apparatus that can be raised or lowered. A thermoplastic sheet is inserted into the machine and then heated. The mold is raised from below into the hot plastic, and the plastic molds around it. The vacuum then draws all of the air out of the plastic and sets it to the mold's shape. After setting, air is pumped back in to separate the mold from the plastic.

Types

There are two types of molds used by vacuum forming machines: male (positive) and female (negative). Male form molds project upward toward the plastic sheet, while female forms molds project downward. The top surface of the mold is what comes into contact with the plastic and is therefore better finished, and that is the determinant for using a male or female mold.

Benefits

Vacuum forming molds can be used in many industries. They are used by companies in the fields of aeronautics, agriculture, automotive, construction, computers, design, electronics, and many more. They are versatile and easy to produce.