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Techniques => How to... => Topic started by: Alan_Perse on May 08, 2022, 20:04:36 PM

Title: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: Alan_Perse on May 08, 2022, 20:04:36 PM
Hi All,

I though I would share some photos of a home made vacuum forming machine I'm building to make a canopy for my Skylark 2.
The Skylark has been pretty much ready to fly for quite some time, it just needs a canopy.
The first few photos are of the vacuum box. The last two are for the frame that will hold the plastic.

Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: rogallo on May 09, 2022, 06:44:46 AM
Looks good  Alan, keep up the good work and show us pics of the finished product.

Bill Scott and JP, any idea where you can get acetate for forming the canopy?

Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: Alan_Perse on May 09, 2022, 08:39:10 AM
Thanks Ralph. The vacuum forming machine is pretty much finished. I just need to finish making the plug for my canopy, and a I need to get some clear acetate. The vacuum box is 30cm x 30cm so any sheet that I can get that’s bigger than that would be great.
Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: Alan_Perse on August 07, 2022, 18:14:24 PM
Hi Guys. Just an update on my Vacuum Forming Machine.
I managed to source some PETG Clear plastic, 0.5mm thickness.
It took four attempts but I managed to form a canopy for my Skylark 2, see below.
Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: Peter on August 07, 2022, 18:55:59 PM
Looks great Alan. Well done!
Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: rogallo on August 08, 2022, 14:49:12 PM
Great job Alan, the Skylark will finally take to the air/

See you in Sept.

Ralph
Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: billscottni on August 08, 2022, 19:50:58 PM
nice work Alan
Title: Re: DIY Vacuum Forming Machine
Post by: Alan_Perse on August 17, 2022, 20:39:31 PM
Thanks all. Yes hopefully I can get the Skylark going. Want to start other projects.