In vacuum forming, what is done to the plastic sheet before it is molded?

In the vacuum forming process, the first step involves heating a plastic sheet to make it pliable. This is crucial because the plastic needs to be in a malleable state to easily conform to the shape of the mold that is used. Once the plastic sheet has been sufficiently heated, it is then placed over a mold. A vacuum is applied, which draws the heated plastic down onto the mold, allowing it to take on the desired shape as it cools and solidifies.

This process ensures that the final product has a precise shape with good detail reproduction from the mold surface. The heating of the plastic sheet is critical because if the sheet is not heated properly, it may either crack or not form correctly. Following the molding process, the material may be further processed, but the initial heating and application of the vacuum are key to achieving successful vacuum formation.