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Post by ecbill on Apr 21, 2020 14:12:07 GMT -7
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Post by wbj on Apr 21, 2020 15:49:31 GMT -7
I would suggest that you build a small vacuum box, a simple L channel metal frame (used with bulldog clips to hold the plastic in place), hook up that shop vac to the vacuum box. Then get a toaster oven (to place the L channel frame w/plastic clipped on)as your heat source. Stay away from that heat gun when using less than .030" plastic. Do a search as there is loads of info out there today on vacuum forming. If the Mattel unit you have had a functioning heat element. I would say just adapt an alternate vacuum source. If you specific questions just let me know. Been playing with formers for a long time.
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Post by nosubfor3 on Apr 22, 2020 3:58:45 GMT -7
Figured it’s time to reach out to the brain trust at Nitro Slot on bringing my vacuum former back to life. Here are some pics of the machine. It’s an old Mattel unit from the 60s. Seals on vac pump are leaking. Probably will just pull the piston and connect a shop vac. Heater is long dead and been using the hot air paint stripper. Success rate with this heater is not very good. It’s fan distorts the plastic and pretty much requires a 3 hand operation. Looking for alternate ideas to heat the plastic enough to soften it for forming. So far I’ve tried a heat lamp but that didn’t generate enough heat. What kind of ideas do you guys have? View AttachmentView AttachmentA rebuild kit is available on line for the old Mattell Vacuform machine. Or you can buy a dental vaccum for machine, www.amazon.com/Excellent-Quality-Forming-Machine-Equipmemt/dp/B0067FFW6ESearch for better price. |
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Post by Eagle Racing on Apr 22, 2020 4:38:25 GMT -7
I use to do that before I got into resin casting. I built my own out of wood, and used the oven as heat source. Not the best way, but it is what I had at the time. Then I started using a paint stripper gun. Those you have to keep gun moving or you end up with thin spots when you hit it with vacuum. I used lexan sheets to forum with. I have one of the dental vacuum former machines. They are nice.
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Deleted
Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Apr 22, 2020 7:52:47 GMT -7
I have a couple 5 X 5 inch dental vacuum machines.
they work well. PM me if you are interested in one.
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Post by nosubfor3 on Apr 23, 2020 3:29:48 GMT -7
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Post by ecbill on Apr 23, 2020 7:28:44 GMT -7
Have to agree with you. It doesn't seem like a good investment to restore the old Mattel former, when the heater is brad. Sent a PM to AL |
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