MAKE A “NO VAC” VACUUM FORMER

This DIY workshop accessory is less than $40!

- JOHN JENNINGS

This simple, inexpensive shop accessory is an easy to build vacuum former that lets you form canopies, cowls and other details up to 7x7 inches in size. The plastic for forming is cheap (or even free) by reusing grocery store packaging or fast food outlets. You probably already have all the tools and half the materials on hand.

The platen (forming surface) is 8x8 inches. My prototype setup creates vacuum using a piston in a 12-long piece of 4-inch diameter PVC pipe. It produces more than enough vacuum for forming, more than is available from a household vacuum cleaner. I tried using a longer piece of PVC pipe but there was no noticeable increase in performance.

TOOLS AND MATERIALS

You’ll need a coping saw, electric hand drill, a 1/16- or 1/8inch diameter drill bit, a 1/2-inch spade drill bit, sanding sticks, pencil, ruler, and a scratch awl. A crosscut wood saw would be nice for cutting the PVC, but the coping saw gets the job done. A scroll or band saw would be ideal, but not really necessary.

As for the building materials, I used mostly what plywood I had on hand. If you have thicker plywood, it will work just fine. The only important dimensions are for the PVC pipe size. The purpose of the pine 2x4 is to raise the platen surface high enough to clear the C-clamps holding the device to the edge of the table and take up any stress on this device. I used Liquid Nails construction adhesive and sealer to hold the PVC pipe to the 2x4 and to glue the other major pieces together. It also stops air leaks. Use generously to stick the PVC to the 2x4. My total cost was $38.05 total for materials at the Lowe’s home improvement store.

THE PLASTIC