Lessons Learned, The real deal on vacuum forming, from:GENES_WORLD Options

[gene/ZR1]

Ray
Yes I have uesd plaster molds with success, I glue on a thin piece of wood veneer to the bottom of the mold to spread the pressure.
Vac pump source http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch...t?q=vacuum+pump.
Should work fine.
I have done modifications to my system,so when you get started give me a buzz.
The platen has to be correct,very simple.
I pull bodies from any angle,no problems.
Yes I use an arched metal cover to transfer heat to the top of the petg.

This will be a new adventure and you will enjoy this even more.

g;

Ordered the heating element & Booklet today, now I'll need to get a vac-pump.

Gene, have you try a plaster mold on your system ? I wonder how hard the pump pulls down & will it damage a plaster mold ?
I see that you arranged your mold from front to back vs side to side ? any advanged in one vs the other ? I plan on using a smaller plastic area,( like you have) over the heating element. How much heat escapes on the sides ? Could you put a cover over areas not heating plastic/frame ? Have you tried lexan with your system?
Should be fun !1
Ray

[one27ray]

Ray
Yes I have uesd plaster molds with success, I glue on a thin piece of wood veneer to the bottom of the mold to spread the pressure.
Vac pump source http://www.harborfreight.com/catalogsearch...t?q=vacuum+pump.
Should work fine.
I have done modifications to my system,so when you get started give me a buzz.
The platen has to be correct,very simple.
I pull bodies from any angle,no problems.
Yes I use an arched metal cover to transfer heat to the top of the petg.

This will be a new adventure and you will enjoy this even more.

g;

Thanks!

I do the balsa wood on the bottom too, works great ! Do you use a two stage pump ? I have to check with the local harborfreight to see what they have on hand for pumps. I'll give you a call for sure !
Ray

PS happy Birthday Edo

[32deuce]

Hi Gene,
After reading this again I think I am better off building a new system for Lexan. What are the specs of the pumps (HP, CFM, inches of vacuum) and could you put the part #'s in writing? Hard to see on the photos.

Also, where is the best place to hook up the gauge?

Thanks!

Z