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What materials can I use with the vacuum formers?

Vacuum formers should only be used with thermoplastics such as:

  • PVC clear sheet available from eStore.
  • Styrene sheet, available in many colours from eStore.
  • Foam sheet for vacuum forming can be purchase in specialist shops.

Some plastics can release highly toxic fumes when heated. Do not heat other types of plastics on the vacuum former.

Suitable mould materials are:

  • Wood, such as plywood and timber, works well.
  • Plaster works well.
  • Styrofoam works for some shapes but will not withstand multiple time in the vacuum former.

Unsuitable mould materials

  • Hollow thin plastic shapes would be deformed out of shape.
  • Hollow thin cardboard shapes would be deformed out of shape.
  • Standard expanded polystyrene is unsuitable as it will melt when in contact with the hot plastic. This is the white polystyrene that is often used as packaging foam.

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