While the mass production machines cost well over 100k you can build your own simple former for less than a 150.
Vacuum forming machine plans.
Ideal for prototyping packaging and short run production of larger parts.
Download the free google sketchup plans for a nice vacuum former design from http www seafax co uk.
Proto form vacuum forming machine plans 65.
Information is included to build three sizes 24x24 24x36 and 24x48 inches.
Read more about building your own vacuum form machine.
There are plenty of large sheets of 02 03 thick pet g plastic that is great for vacuum forming clear canopies available from amazon.
If you want larger canopies or other vacuum formed parts build a larger plenum and plastic holder.
Highly detailed construction plans for a larger vacuum forming machine used to mold flat plastic sheets into complex shapes by using heat and vacuum.
This is a very detailed build with lots of pictures and links to suppliers.
Ideal for prototyping packaging and short run production of larger parts.
The results from this machine are fantastic.
The plans are delivered digitally in pdf format.
If you want to make your own vacuum form machine this is a must read web site.
Construction plans for a larger vacuum forming machine.