How to build a simple Vacuum forming table.

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khaag
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How to build a simple Vacuum forming table.

Post by khaag » Thu Jun 04, 2009 10:24 pm

Using this guide, you can build a simple vacuum former with a 12" forming area.

What you need:

4 pieces - 14"x3"x3/4" MDF with the two ends cut on a 45 degree angle so you can create a box [SIDES]
2 pieces - 14"x14"x1/4" MDF for the top and bottom [TOP/BOTTOM]
4 pieces - 14"x1"x1" (can be made by ripping a couple 2x4's on a table saw) [FRAME SIDES]
4 pieces - 12"x1"x1" [FRAME SIDES]

2 - 1/4"x2-1/2" bolts
2 - 1/4" wing nuts
2 - 1/4" washers

1 - Vacuum fitting the same size as the vacuum you intend to use for the table
1 - Roll of foam tape
1 - Tube of silicone

Directions:

To make the plastic holding frame, create 2 squares with the 1x1 pieces. Put the 2 longer pieces parallel and the 2 shorter pieces in between them perpendicular. Repeat this step to make 2 frames.

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Line up the 2 frames and drill 2 holes big enough to fit the bolts through. On the bottom frame on the bottom side, drill half way through with a bit large enough to have the head of the bolt countersunk. The bottom surface must be flat so an airtight seal can be created when suction starts.

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Create the vacuum box by joining the 4 MDF Sides. Use a miter joint (45 degree angle) to create a 14"x14" box. You'll want to cut your MDF boards so they look like this:

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Join them together so the angled edges butt up against each other. When you have the sides together, fasten the top and bottom pieces on using wood glue and finishing nails. On the top side, draw a 1" grid. At each intersection point, drill a 1/4" hole. Put a strip of foam tape on the perimeter of the top.

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Drill a hole big enough in one of the sides for your vacuum attachment. Carefully screw through the attachment to fasten it securely to the table and then put silicone around the edge to create an airtight seal.

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And there you have it! Your very own vacuum forming table to use to create amazing portables! I'll post a video up later on how to use the table.
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AfroLH
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Re: How to build a simple Vacuum forming table.

Post by AfroLH » Fri Jun 05, 2009 9:01 am

Thanks So much for this!

I can't wait to start making some awesome cases!

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Re: How to build a simple Vacuum forming table.

Post by Basement_Modder » Sun Jun 07, 2009 3:31 pm

Going to gather supplies.
Cheers,
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Re: How to build a simple Vacuum forming table.

Post by blaze3927 » Sat Jun 13, 2009 3:17 am

Is that An ESP LTD guitar I see in the background? I have an ESP LTD F-204 bass that looks similar
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Re: How to build a simple Vacuum forming table.

Post by khaag » Sat Jun 13, 2009 10:47 am

blaze3927 wrote:Is that An ESP LTD guitar I see in the background? I have an ESP LTD F-204 bass that looks similar
Sure is. LTD AX-400. They don't even make this one anymore.
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