Vacuum molding is an easy technique that businesses can use to make a plastic mold of almost anything. Vacuum molding is essential for industries that make use of custom vacuum moldings to create product molds and prototypes. The process can also be used to create hard-to-replace parts or oddly shaped objects.

Vacuum molding equipment works by using suction to form sheets of plastic to a specified shape. Different vacuum molding machines come in varying sizes, from small machines appropriate for hobbyists to heavy-duty equipment for industrial use.

If your business needs to create custom plastic forms on a regular basis, you should determine whether it's more cost-effective to purchase your own vacuum molding equipment or make use of a custom vacuum molding supplier that can make your molds for you. Purchasing vacuum molding supplies and equipment is an expensive venture, but it could save you money over time.

1. Look for a vacuum molding shop that can handle custom forming for you

2. Shop around for affordable vacuuming molding equipment that meets your needs

3. Stock up on the vacuum molding supplies you need for your business

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find a business that offers custom vacuum moldings

If you use vacuum molding on an occasional basis, you might be better off hiring a custom shop to do your vacuum molding for you. It saves you the cost of specialized equipment and supplies, let alone all the storage space you'll need for the large machinery.

I recommend: Spencer Industries provides custom vacuum molding, in addition to other custom plastic forming services. Formtech Plastics can handle vacuum molding projects up to 48 inches by 72 inches.

Seek out vacuum molding equipment for sale

If you decide to purchase a vacuum molder for your business, shop around to find the best equipment for the best price. A number of retailers offer new and used vacuum forming machines for sale. When you've determined what capabilities you need in your vacuuming molding equipment, you can narrow the field and find the right seller for your business.

I recommend: Use the vacuum molding equipment directory at Fiberglass World to find vacuum molding equipment for sale. Bel-O-Vac sells vacuum molding machines in a number of configurations. KD Capital Equipment sells used vacuum forming machines, in addition to other plastics machinery.

Shop around for vacuum molding supplies

Once you've found the right vacuum molding equipment, you'll need to get your hands on supplies for your projects. Because so many different types of objects can be molded with vacuum molding equipment, make sure you're getting the right materials for the job at hand.

I recommend: You can find plastic sheeting and other vacuum molding supplies at Action Sports Technology. ThomasNet lists companies that manufacture and sell vacuum pumps.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Because vacuum molding can be used for so many different types of projects, make sure you're working with the right equipment and supplies (or the right custom molding shop). Not all vacuum molding projects are created equal, so double check the machinery's specifications and the thickness of the plastic sheets against the object you plan to vacuum form before proceeding.