Kris Posted June 17, 2010 Report Share Posted June 17, 2010 I am building a vacuum former and read the few threads here about the subject. I wanted to see if anyone who uses one here could tell me the type of plastic (styrene, ABS, etc.) and thickness they use. From what I've read it seems Styrene is a good choice. Just not sure on the thickness. Also ... share any pics of your vacuum former if you would like. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CMARTIN269 Posted June 17, 2010 Report Share Posted June 17, 2010 there was a video from the TU get together on the homepage,shows how to make a inexpensive vacum form. I would have to look around to find it now since the sight has changed,but it is here.It is very informative. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
atrophius Posted June 18, 2010 Report Share Posted June 18, 2010 http://www.tk560.com/stormtrooper.html ^ I have linked this website before for the vacuformer, and i think they list that they use .060 thickness. Now that is for stormtrooper armor, I imagine you might want thinner. hope that gives some sort of direction. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RayburnGuy Posted June 18, 2010 Report Share Posted June 18, 2010 I've used PETG (high impact acrylic) in .030" with good success. It's thin enough that it forms easily and plenty rigid after forming. And the forming doesn't effect the clarity either. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kris Posted June 21, 2010 Author Report Share Posted June 21, 2010 I purchased some clear styrene in .050 thickness to try out. Since this will be my first attempt at vacuum forming I thought I would go with something they say is easy to use ... we shall see. RayburnGuy ... where do you get your PETG from? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RayburnGuy Posted June 21, 2010 Report Share Posted June 21, 2010 I purchased some clear styrene in .050 thickness to try out. Since this will be my first attempt at vacuum forming I thought I would go with something they say is easy to use ... we shall see. RayburnGuy ... where do you get your PETG from? I got mine from Regal Plastics in Dallas, Tx. Depending on where your from you might want to do an internet search and see if you can find a supplier that's close to you. Saves on shipping costs. If you want to order from Regal Plastics just let me know and I'll give you all the info. I bought a 4' x 8' sheet of the .030" and it was only $18.50. The shipping and tax ($17.77) was almost as much as the sheet of plastic. That's why I say it's best to find a supplier that's as close as possible. Let me know if I can help. Good luck with the vacuum forming and let us know how the .050" works out. RG Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...