Questions about working with plastic.

[Mad Matt]

Ok ok don't panic I'm making a suit of futuristic powered armour.

I have to redesign the backpack but this is basically what I'm planning already redid the gun but these pics were already online.

http://www.geocities.com/madmattsarmory/powarm2.html

I just finished reading all about vaccuuforming but was wondering if there is a more time effective way to make some of the parts without vaccuuforming.

Any suggestions on how and out of what to make the moulds for the parts.

Can plastic be worked like metal when heated.

Also I want it to be fairly sturdy but still want the vaccuforming to work. I need suggestions on what type and thickness of plastic I can use. I guess I can't go too thick or I'll loose detail.

Any help is appreciated.

[Halberds]

Most home vac. forming use low heat and thin plastic like PET.

For thicker parts in ABS one needs a substantial heat source.
I use the infrared propane heaters, turned face up to soften the plastic.
http://www.northerntool.com/images/prod ... 729_lg.jpg

The vac. supply needs to be a large capacity rotatory vane pump capable of 14" Hg.
One will need a frame and clamp system as well as a sturdy plenum .
Don't over look the sealing of the two.
A foot switch also helps to control the process.

For nice detail you will need 1/8 to 3/16" plastic. If you use clear polycarbonate, you can paint the inside and it will show through very nice and not scratch off. Remember that every little detail on your form will show on the plastic, so be carefull to make the best form.

I do not recommend polypropylene or polyethylene due to the high temps and heat bubbles.

Keep us posted.

Hal, one who has spent years in the plastic industry.

[Alcyoneus]

Vaccuum drawing of kydex, etc is at around 380 degrees or so. If you aren't going to that extent, you really only need to get it 'plastic' or a bit floppy, say around 150-200. Trial and error.

[Maeryk]

Matt, search the net about making "storm trooper armor". There was a very detailed article I remember reading once about a guy who vaccu-formed a set of it, and he put a lot of details in the article.

Maeryk