3D Printable Vacuum Former|6 Versions +STEP files

These vacuum formers are designed to be fully 3D printable and easy to assemble. It works with a standard household vacuum cleaner and is perfect for forming small plastic parts using PS, PETG or even 3D printed PLA sheets.

After receiving a lot of positive feedback on the original MiniVF vacuum formers and many requests for larger versions, I decided to expand the collection with multiple new sizes and configurations.

You can now choose between several AXLE models designed for different sheet sizes and applications:

• MiniVF3R_AXLE - 200 × 100 mm
• MiniVF4_AXLE - 250 × 250 mm
• MiniVF5_AXLE - 300 × 300 mm
• MiniVF6_AXLE - 400 × 400 mm
• MiniVF6R_AXLE - 400 × 200 mm

Model naming:

• R = Rectangle (non-square build area)

For now, all new models are released as AXLE versions since the self-aligning mechanism provides the best user experience and most consistent results.

BASIC versions may be added in the future if there is enough demand. The same applies to additional rectangular (R) or larger variants.

You can download the STEP files by clicking the green button “Download STL/CAD Files” 

Necessary materials:

• DIN912 M3x08  (AA037 at Maker's Supply) 
• Vacuum cleaner (I use Miele Blizzard CX1)
• Heatgun / hairdryer to preheat the sheets (I use VONROC HA501AC)

• Vacuum cleaner attachment:
  → Design one yourself with the included STEP files
  → Generate your own: https://makerworld.com/nl/models/1202311-the-ultimate-vacuum-nozzle-generator-samples#profileId-1215500 
      → In the generator: ‘connector settings’ is for your own vacuum cleaner.
      → At ‘Nozzle settings’, you can use these dimensions to fit perfectly in my vacuum former:
           → nozzleWallTickness: 1.0
           → narrowLength: 30 (or longer)
           → topWidth: 34
           → topDepth: 14
           → edgeRadius: 4.0

           → Disable: ‘enableAngledTop’

If you don’t have access to plastic sheets, you can simply print your own using your 3D printer.

This opens up a lot of creative possibilities:

Surface Finishes:

By printing sheets on different build plates, you can achieve different surface textures:

• Smooth (glass or smooth PEI)
• Textured (textured PEI plates)
• Carbon fiber-style patterns (using a sticker on a plate)
• Matte or satin finishes

Colors & Patterns:

You can also experiment with:

• Different filament colors
• Multi-color prints
• Layer-based patterns or gradients

Useful info I got from testing:

1. When printing your own molds:
   → Make sure to always print them in PETG when your sheets are printed in PLA (or vice versa) 
   → PETG does not stick to PLA

    

2. Distance of the heatgun to the sheet (based on my own experience with my heatgun):
   - 30 to 100 mm (when it sags down enough, it's hot enough)

    

3. Removing the mold after vacuum forming:
   → Place the formed sheet with the mold in the fridge for 5 minutes. After which you can easily take the mold out.

I attached exploded view drawings and here is a dedicated build instruction video MiniVF3 (AXLE-version is same as all the uploaded ones on this page):

I also made a project video about my exploration with vacuum forming:

DISCLAIMER:

I have personally tested and successfully used the following models:

• MiniVF2_BASIC
• MiniVF3_BASIC
• MiniVF3_AXLE
• MiniVF3R_AXLE

The remaining models are based on the same proven design principles and should work as intended, but have not yet been physically tested.

Please note that vacuum forming becomes increasingly difficult as the sheet size grows. Larger sheets require more heat, more even heating, and generally make it harder to achieve a perfect pull.

Do you want to print a smaller vacuum former? Download my compact 3D printable vacuum formers:

https://makerworld.com/nl/models/2752057-3d-printable-vacuum-former-2-versions-step-files#profileId-3053617