Blacksmithing Area

2019-03-26T15:33:15Z

Mariano:

Blacksmithing Area

2019-03-26T06:08:30Z

Mariano:

File:Blacksmith.png

2019-03-26T06:05:53Z

Mariano:

Forge

2019-03-25T20:00:49Z

Mariano:

The Hot Metals Shop is one of the areas that has an area host here at PS:One. The current Area Host is Ron Olson.

{{Infobox HostedArea
| image = IMG 1984.JPG
| areaname = Hot Metals
| hostedsince = 2014-05-07
| location = West side of new area
| toolcategory = [[:Category:Hot Metals]]
| hostname = Ron Olson
| hostphone = 312-772-3864
| hostemail = hotmetals {at} pumpingstationone.org
| hostother = tachoknight {at} gmail.com
| hosthours = [https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4@group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago Check the calendar]
| hostcerts = by request
}}

== Area Rules ==

<ol>
<li>Use the required safety gear for the tool you are using. Know where the closest fire extinguisher is as well as the first aid kit. And pay attention to what you are doing.</li>
<li>Clean up after yourself - sweep, throw out little garbage bits, put large scrap pieces in the scrap storage locations.</li>
<li>Label your projects - Name, phone number, email, and date it each time you work on it.</li>
<li>Put things back when you're done - Lets try to make sure everyone can find the tool they are looking for once you are finished.</li>
<li>Respect all the tools - They are hungry beasts and will maim you. Don't be goofing off in the shop. Only use tools you are certified to use.</li>
<li>If something breaks, put a note on it and contact the Area Host, don't just leave it for the next person to find.</li>
<li>Make awesome things!</li>
</ol>

=== Project Storage ===

<ol>
<li>Projects too large for your locker cannot be left in the shop in a manner that makes any tool unusable. If you have to store your project in the shop, you can store it temporarily in the 'temporary' storage area.</li>
<li>You must have a label with your name, phone number, and email on your project and any materials that belong to you. Every time you work on it, write the date on your label.</li>
<li>If a project is untouched for 30 days, the project will be considered abandoned and be made available to the membership as scrap or thrown away.</li>
<li>Your project may not be stored in the space for more than '''60 days TOTAL time''', whether you worked on it daily or once every other week. </li>

</ol>
For best results, have all the materials on hand when you start a project and set aside time to finish it quickly so we don't have projects laying all over the shop, half done, for months.

== Safety ==
Some safety equipment is currently available:

* goggles
* gloves (including welding gloves)
* respirator
* ear protection
* painter suits
* welding masks
* fire extinguishers

Users are encouraged to use this equipment as recommended for each tool.

If you see someone using the equipment improperly, either show them how to do it right, or ask them to stop and seek certification. Notify the Area Host if anyone is abusing, damaging, or messing with the tools in an inappropriate fashion.

If the smoke/CO detector goes off, stop what you are doing. Do not shut it off and go back to work until you take a break for at least 15 minutes to be sure there aren't any harmful fumes.

== Tools Available ==

All equipment in the workshop has been tagged [[:Category:Shop Equipment]].

All equipment requires certification to be used. Please see the individual tool pages for information on who can certify you to use these tools.

=== Using the tools ===

If it belongs to PS:One, please be nice to the tools. If they belong to a member who is awesome enough to loan us their personal gear, make sure you treat it extra nice and also, get their permission first.

Please be respectful and aware of others working in the shop at the same time you are. If you are throwing sparks, throw them away from other people. If you are walking around with hot metal, say something so others know where you are and don't get branded. If you are going to start making a lot of noise, let other people know so they can get some ear protection, don't just deafen them.

== Authorizations ==

=== Hot Metals Shop Safety ===

All Hot Metals Shop users are required to take this course as a before they can become authorized on other tools in the shop. All authorizations go over this material before the proceeding to the "main" course.

Subjects that will be covered:

* Safety
** PPE
** Shop work area
* Emergency supplies locations
** Fire extinguisher & blanket
** First aid & burns kits
* Gas Tank safety
** Storage
** Moving
** Restraints
* Gas Tank Regulators
** Fitting and removal
** Valve operation and setting a flow rate

=== Welding Prep ===

* Mig machine basics
** Layout and controls
** Gun maintenance (tip and case replacement)
** Welding wire installation
* Material Preparation
* Class project - prep materials for mig welding class

=== Mig Welding ===
Mig welding is done either during Hot Metal office hours, or during the Hot Metals Authorization Party. Check the [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for dates and times

=== Tig Welding ===
Tig welding authorizations can be done during Hot Metal office hours or during the Hot Metals Authorization party. Check [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for dates and times.

Note that it is a requirement to have gone through Tier 1 authorizations first. Why? Because if you're working with the Tig machine, you likely want to work with aluminum and if you want to work with aluminum, you want to use the proper tools for cutting and shaping the parts before welding.

=== Plasma Cutting ===
Authorization on the plasma cutter takes place during Hot Metal Office hours. Check [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for dates and times.

=== [[Blacksmithing Area|Forge/Blacksmithing]] ===
Learning how to safely light and work with the forge takes place during '''B'''lacksmithing '''O'''ffice '''H'''ours. Check [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for '''BOO''' dates and times.

Note that sometimes [[Blacksmithing Area|blacksmithing]] classes are held which also count as authorization, and typically give a lot more information about working with the equipment. You want to go to those, seriously.

== Tidy Space ==

* [[Hot Metals Shop/Tidy Space/2014-05-8|2014-05-8]]

== Budgets ==

* [[Hot Metals Shop/Budget/2014|2014]]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1TjPnp8mb6m2YSyxrAGlldM_yFoU1KAp9CTc48mY3Yxg/edit?usp=sharing 2015]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1U2Fbt7A6MRIJDtxureCsYdJSPdvS3_Hci7lGH7yl9fI/edit?usp=sharing 2016]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1501JtRvzGkHepMiZdtJqnz147LO-94dcbHerGBykf-g/edit?usp=sharing 2017]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wA9pg9Pg7fQfSDYSMwLCp7FLkqqStqHJpd2Ksitv_xY/edit?usp=sharing 2018]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yPjYVGn1i8iXLQbiPejB-4ImAyGSX7V_ed7sPdg0euM/edit?usp=sharing 2019]

== Goals ==
* [[Hot Metal Shop Plans for 2019]]

[[Category:Equipment]]
[[Category:Hosted Areas]]
[[Category:Member Manual]]
[[Category:Projects]]
[[Category:Tutorials]]

Category:Hot Metals

2019-03-25T19:59:55Z

Mariano:

The Hot Metals Shop is one of the areas that has an area host here at PS:One. The current Area Host is Ron Olson.

{{Infobox HostedArea
| image = IMG 1984.JPG
| areaname = Hot Metals
| hostedsince = 2014-05-07
| location = West side of new area
| toolcategory = [[:Category:Hot Metals]]
| hostname = Ron Olson
| hostphone = 312-772-3864
| hostemail = hotmetals {at} pumpingstationone.org
| hostother = tachoknight {at} gmail.com
| hosthours = [https://calendar.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4@group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago Check the calendar]
| hostcerts = by request
}}

== Area Rules ==

<ol>
<li>Use the required safety gear for the tool you are using. Know where the closest fire extinguisher is as well as the first aid kit. And pay attention to what you are doing.</li>
<li>Clean up after yourself - sweep, throw out little garbage bits, put large scrap pieces in the scrap storage locations.</li>
<li>Label your projects - Name, phone number, email, and date it each time you work on it.</li>
<li>Put things back when you're done - Lets try to make sure everyone can find the tool they are looking for once you are finished.</li>
<li>Respect all the tools - They are hungry beasts and will maim you. Don't be goofing off in the shop. Only use tools you are certified to use.</li>
<li>If something breaks, put a note on it and contact the Area Host, don't just leave it for the next person to find.</li>
<li>Make awesome things!</li>
</ol>

=== Project Storage ===

<ol>
<li>Projects too large for your locker cannot be left in the shop in a manner that makes any tool unusable. If you have to store your project in the shop, you can store it temporarily in the 'temporary' storage area.</li>
<li>You must have a label with your name, phone number, and email on your project and any materials that belong to you. Every time you work on it, write the date on your label.</li>
<li>If a project is untouched for 30 days, the project will be considered abandoned and be made available to the membership as scrap or thrown away.</li>
<li>Your project may not be stored in the space for more than '''60 days TOTAL time''', whether you worked on it daily or once every other week. </li>

</ol>
For best results, have all the materials on hand when you start a project and set aside time to finish it quickly so we don't have projects laying all over the shop, half done, for months.

== Safety ==
Some safety equipment is currently available:

* goggles
* gloves (including welding gloves)
* respirator
* ear protection
* painter suits
* welding masks
* fire extinguishers

Users are encouraged to use this equipment as recommended for each tool.

If you see someone using the equipment improperly, either show them how to do it right, or ask them to stop and seek certification. Notify the Area Host if anyone is abusing, damaging, or messing with the tools in an inappropriate fashion.

If the smoke/CO detector goes off, stop what you are doing. Do not shut it off and go back to work until you take a break for at least 15 minutes to be sure there aren't any harmful fumes.

== Tools Available ==

All equipment in the workshop has been tagged [[:Category:Shop Equipment]].

All equipment requires certification to be used. Please see the individual tool pages for information on who can certify you to use these tools.

=== Using the tools ===

If it belongs to PS:One, please be nice to the tools. If they belong to a member who is awesome enough to loan us their personal gear, make sure you treat it extra nice and also, get their permission first.

Please be respectful and aware of others working in the shop at the same time you are. If you are throwing sparks, throw them away from other people. If you are walking around with hot metal, say something so others know where you are and don't get branded. If you are going to start making a lot of noise, let other people know so they can get some ear protection, don't just deafen them.

== Authorizations ==

=== Hot Metals Shop Safety ===

All Hot Metals Shop users are required to take this course as a before they can become authorized on other tools in the shop. All authorizations go over this material before the proceeding to the "main" course.

Subjects that will be covered:

* Safety
** PPE
** Shop work area
* Emergency supplies locations
** Fire extinguisher & blanket
** First aid & burns kits
* Gas Tank safety
** Storage
** Moving
** Restraints
* Gas Tank Regulators
** Fitting and removal
** Valve operation and setting a flow rate

=== Welding Prep ===

* Mig machine basics
** Layout and controls
** Gun maintenance (tip and case replacement)
** Welding wire installation
* Material Preparation
* Class project - prep materials for mig welding class

=== Mig Welding ===
Mig welding is done either during Hot Metal office hours, or during the Hot Metals Authorization Party. Check the [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for dates and times

=== Tig Welding ===
Tig welding authorizations can be done during Hot Metal office hours or during the Hot Metals Authorization party. Check [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for dates and times.

Note that it is a requirement to have gone through Tier 1 authorizations first. Why? Because if you're working with the Tig machine, you likely want to work with aluminum and if you want to work with aluminum, you want to use the proper tools for cutting and shaping the parts before welding.

=== Plasma Cutting ===
Authorization on the plasma cutter takes place during Hot Metal Office hours. Check [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for dates and times.

=== [[Blacksmithing Area|Forge/Blacksmithing]] ===
Learning how to safely light and work with the forge takes place during '''B'''lacksmothing '''O'''ffice '''H'''ours. Check [http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=hhlp4gcgvdmifq5lcbk7e27om4%40group.calendar.google.com&ctz=America/Chicago PS:One Google Calendar] for '''BOO''' dates and times.

Note that sometimes [[Blacksmithing Area|blacksmithing]] classes are held which also count as authorization, and typically give a lot more information about working with the equipment. You want to go to those, seriously.

== Tidy Space ==

* [[Hot Metals Shop/Tidy Space/2014-05-8|2014-05-8]]

== Budgets ==

* [[Hot Metals Shop/Budget/2014|2014]]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1TjPnp8mb6m2YSyxrAGlldM_yFoU1KAp9CTc48mY3Yxg/edit?usp=sharing 2015]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1U2Fbt7A6MRIJDtxureCsYdJSPdvS3_Hci7lGH7yl9fI/edit?usp=sharing 2016]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1501JtRvzGkHepMiZdtJqnz147LO-94dcbHerGBykf-g/edit?usp=sharing 2017]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1wA9pg9Pg7fQfSDYSMwLCp7FLkqqStqHJpd2Ksitv_xY/edit?usp=sharing 2018]
* [https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yPjYVGn1i8iXLQbiPejB-4ImAyGSX7V_ed7sPdg0euM/edit?usp=sharing 2019]

== Goals ==
* [[Hot Metal Shop Plans for 2019]]

[[Category:Equipment]]
[[Category:Hosted Areas]]
[[Category:Member Manual]]
[[Category:Projects]]
[[Category:Tutorials]]

2019-03-19T16:37:34Z

Mariano:

{{Template:EquipmentPage
|owner = PS:One
|hostarea = Hot Metals
|certification = yes
|hackable = no
|model = Belovac BV E-Class
|serial =
|arrived = 2018
|where = Hot Metals
|doesitwork = yes
|contact = [[User:Rtystgeeke]]
|value = tbd
|image = Belovac Vacuum Former Main.jpg|300px
}}

== Overview ==

This vacuum forming machine has been donated by SAIC and is currently installed in Hot Metals area. A Danger Committee was formed and the machine is ready for member use pending authorization.

=== How to Get Authorized ===

'''Authorization for this machine is on demand'''. Please send a request on the Google Group to see when an Authorizer (below) is available.

Please review the information on this page, in particular the Safety section.

Please bring your own materials, as there is no guarantee there will be any available. A few sheets of thin 12in x 12in ABS/HIPS would be ideal.

=== Current Status ===

This machine is working but requires maintenance and improvements (see list below).

== Vacuum Forming Process ==

'''Vacuum Forming''', is a type of '''Thermoforming''',which is the process of heating a plastic sheet and stretching it over a mold. As the plastic cools, it hardens, permanently retaining that shape.

This device can handle any thermoformable plastic up to 3/8" thick.

Depending on which platen/frame that is used, the machine can accept 3 sizes of plastic sheets. 12inx12in, 24inx24in and 24inx48in. The usable area in those sheets after being secured in the frames being 9.25inx9.25in, 21inx21in, or 21.5inx45.5in.

The "buck," mould or form, may be any sturdy shape that can tolerate a bit of heat. Wood, MDF, metal, and polyester resin work well.
Avoid shapes with hollows underneath because they have a tendency to collapse. Shapes with undercuts, or shapes taller than they are wide, will be very difficult to remove from the formed plastic. Paint, shellac, or epoxy resin can cause the hot plastic to stick.

The oven must be used only for vacuum forming. Please do not attempt to use this machine to dry materials or anything other than its intended purpose.

Other related tools/skills:
* ShopBot Auth - to create molds out of MDF with the CNC.
* Woodshop Auth
** [https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/Rockwell_14_inch_bandsaw Band saw] - To cut flashing (excess material) from thick finished parts with Vertical Band saw.
** [https://wiki.pumpingstationone.org/Porter_Cable_Panel_Saw Panel Saw] - to cut sheets of plastic to correct frame size.
* 3D Printer Auth
** to create mold to cast plaster buck

===Usage Steps===
The process consists essentially of inserting a thermoplastic sheet in a cold state into the clamp area, heating it to the desired temperature with the heating elements, and then raising the buck/form/mould from below. The trapped air is evacuated with the assistance of a vacuum system. Once cooled, the platform is lowered to release the formed plastic part from the buck/form/mould.

The following instructions are an initial release of how to run the machine. Please provide feedback or feel free to make edits.

{| class="wikitable" border="2"
! Steps
! Diagram/Picture
|-
|
''' Power On Procedure '''
# Turn on Wall Power
|[[File:Bvf main power.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Turn on Machine Power
|[[File:Bvf machine power.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Insert sheet of material into Frame.
|[[File:Bvf_frame_open_small.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Close the frame latch to the secure the material.
|[[File:Bvf_frame_latch_small.jpg|310px]]
|-
|
# Push bar forward to close frame clamps and secure overall frame.
Note: Do not use as handle when pushing/pulling frame into position.
|[[File:Bvf_frame_clamps.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Secure Buck/Form/Mould to Vacuum table. If it is heavy enough and does not stick, it may not need to be secured.
Note: it is recommended to have the mold be a bit taller than desired part, to allow space for cut separation.
# Check seals around material and mold.
Note: If material is not thick enough, it may slip out of the frame.
|-
|
# Select desired Valve configuration on bed/platen/platform.
|[[File:Bvf_platform_valves.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Select Number of Heating Elements to turn on.
Note: currently only using middle/center
|[[File:Bvf_heater_select.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Select '''On''' Percentage Duty Cycle (0%-100%) for Heating Elements. It is on a 15 second timer.
Note: This controls the cycle time of the heating elements being On (at dial), then Off (top of timer).
|[[File:Bvf_heat_duty_cycle.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Connect Pneumatic Hose. This allows one to raise/lower the platform.
Note: It can be borrowed from the CNC Plasma Cutter, if not in use.

Note: The main valve with yellow handle, behind the CNC Plasma cutter, above the large tank, may be closed if there is no air.
|
[[File:Bvf_pnuematic_hose_01.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf_pnuematic_hose_02.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Turn on Heating Element
Note: You will see the Timer begin to rotate.
|[[File:Bvf control panel.jpeg|300px]]
|-
|
# Move material frame into heater.
|[[File:Bvf_heat_1.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Close Vacuum Valve (facing valve, rotate clockwise, with handle position pointing to the left at final position.)
# Turn on pump, to begin to build vacuum.
|
[[File:Bvf_vacuum_valve.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf control panel.jpeg|300px]]
|-
|
# Visually check if heating element is on and if material is warming
Note: The heating elements will visibly glow red.
# Visually check if material is sagging and ready.
|
[[File:Bvf heat 1.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf heat 2.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Pull Material frame forward (towards front/away from heaters).
# Inspect Plastic is ready (sufficiently heated/soft).
|[[File:Bvf_frame_forward.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Make certain area is clear before raising bed/platen/platform.
# push lever up to raise vacuum bed/platen/platform.
Note: It is a 3 position pnuematic valve. Center position, holds platform at current position.
|
[[File:Bvf_platform.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf_platform_lever.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Open Vacuum Valve (rotate counter clockwise, with handle position pointing down at final position).
# You should see the plastic part quickly take the shape of the mold.
# Monitor pull of material over mold.
|
[[File:Bvf_vacuum_valve.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf_vacuum_pull.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
# Close Vacuum Valve to Turn off Vacuum, when part is ready.
# Allow part sufficient time to cool, before separation. This time frame is dependent on the thickness of your material.
# Push bed/platen/platform lever down to lower platform and pull mold away from formed part.
|
[[File:Bvf_vacuum_valve.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf_platform_lever.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
'''Shutdown Procedure'''
# On Control panel, Turn Heater switch to Off position.
# On Control panel, Turn Vacuum switch to Off position.
# Open Vacuum Valve (rotate counter clockwise, with handle pointing down), to release any remaining vacuum in the tank.
# Push platform lever down, to release air pressure from pneumatic hose. (Hose will momentarily whip around at next step if air is not released)
# Disconnect pneumatic hose. Return to CNC Plasma Cutter.
# Turn off machine power.
# Turn off Main Wall power.
# Make certain material frames are closed and not left open. (where they can snap shut accidentally)
|
[[File:Bvf machine power.jpg|300px]]
[[File:Bvf main power.jpg|300px]]
|-
|
'''Cleanup Procedure'''
# Cleanup any unused material or scrap.
# Throw away failed part pulls in dumpster. '''Do not leave in Hot Metals area.'''
|}

==Safety==

The Vacuum Former has an oven surface for heating and softening the plastic. It is made of multiple panels (total 6) infrared radiant heating elements, draws a total 80,000 watts (top and bottom), and reaches full operating temperature depending on Active heating time set on the timer.

The most likely source of problems would be for someone to leave the plastic under the heater for way too long and set it on fire. To help avoid this error, we are only using the center top panel for heating. '''Warning:''' Ignoring safety protocol is cause for revoking authorization.

Fumes from most plastics are not expected to be significant when the machine is used properly (''i.e.,'' nothing is on fire). If fumes do turn out to be a concern, the machine can be retrofitted with a fume hood. Then connected to the existing exhaust duct for the Forge. To improve air quality, turn on the forge exhaust and open the front door by the plasma cutter computer.

===Warnings===
{| class="wikitable" border="2"
! Danger/Warning
! Description
! Mitigation
|-
|[[File:Hot sm.png|150px]]
|'''HOT SURFACE''' - Metal Frame holding material and handles will be hot.
|'''Wear Gloves''' during operation
|-
|[[File:Fire sm.png|150px]]
|'''FIRE''' - Material may catch fire while heater is left on.
|'''DO NOT Leave Unattended'''
|-
|[[File:Crush sm.png|150px]]
|'''CRUSHING''' - Make certain there is nothing obstructing the platform, before pulling the pneumatic lever raising the mold to frame. Make certain steel material frames are not left open. They can fall forward, quickly snapping shut.
|'''Clear All Obstructions'''
|-
|[[File:Shock sm.png|150px]]
|'''ELECTRIC SHOCK''' - High Voltage machinery (3 Phase Power) required to run motors and heating elements. Visually check that power cabling is secure, grounded and undamaged before operating and touching metal enclosure.
|'''Check Cabling'''
|}

==Machine Information==

Company page: http://www.belovac.com/manual_deep_draw.html

===Training Resources===
* [http://www.bpf.co.uk/plastipedia/processes/vacuum_forming.aspx Overview of Process]

=== Videos ===
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVvMgkn8st8 About Vacuum Forming Process]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r94oDj7CMRw Makerbot Post Processing: Vacuum Forming]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bD10sMJJbf8 Overview of newer model]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTFnsG814Pc Custom Vacuum Box creation]

==Materials==

NOTE: Materials are not provided. Member must bring their own materials for use with this machine. Please consult material selection guide to select appropriate plastic sheets for thermoforming.

Example Materials for use with the machine below:

===Materials for Buck/Form===
These are an example of some materials that can be used for molding. The material needs to be heat resistant. It should also have a flat base for stability on the platform.

* [https://www.amazon.com/SELECTION-5lb-Plaster-of-Paris/dp/B077MD57S3/ Plaster of Paris]
* [https://www.alumilite.com/store/p/1055-Vac-Master-50.aspx Vac-Master Resin with Aluminum]
* MDF Form ( Shaped by Shopbot CNC or purchased pre-shaped )
* Aluminum/Steel Part

===Materials for Forming===
Information on safe thermo-formable materials in sheets.

Material Selection Guide - https://www.toolcraft.co.uk/vacuum-forming/advice/vacuum-forming-help-material-selection-guide.htm

'''Incomplete List'''
* High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)
** [https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017S4BEIM/ Example 12inx12in HIPS sheets]
* Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
** [https://www.amazon.com/ABS-Plastic-Sheet-Thick-Thickness/dp/B004WP24XU/ Example 12inx12in ABS sheets]

'''Plastics Distributors''' taken from [http://www.tk560.com/vactable4.html tk560.com]

Order full sheets 4'x8' and cut to desired size with panel saw.
*[http://www.professionalplastics.com/cgi-bin/pp.pl?pgm=co_disp&func=displ&strfnbr=3&prrfnbr=85378&sesent=0,0 ProfessionalPlastics.com]
*[http://www.indplastic.com/index.cfm?id=138046&fuseaction=browse&pageid=142 IndPlastic.com]
*[http://www.usplastic.com/catalog/default.asp USPlastic.com]

== Tips & tricks ==

=== Creating an appropriate Buck/Mold ===
* Part should have a flat base
* No overhangs
* Pay attention to draft angles

===Troubleshooting===

How long does it take to heat the plastic sheet?
* This depends on which material and thickness is specified.

How do I know when the plastic is ready to form?
* Generally speaking it is necessary with any new material to establish the correct heating cycle. Plastic is ready to form when it becomes soft and pliable especially nearer to the clamping frame. This is known as glass transition temperature (Tg). Once you have established the time you can set the heater timer for accurate and repeated heating cycles.

Why is the plastic webbing on the mold?
* Material is too hot.
* Insufficient vacuum.
* Excess of material. Use reducing windows.
* Poor mold design.

Why can't I achieve good definition on the finished part?
* Material too cold
* Mold too cold.
* Insufficient vacuum.
* Insufficient vacuum holes in the mold

Why Is the plastic thinning over the mold when formed?
* Sheet cooled whilst forming.
* Mold design with insufficient draft angles.
* Too thin plastic gauge.
* Pre-stretch required.
* Plug assist required.

Why does the plastic bubble and pit when heated?
* Material is Hygroscopic which needs to be pre-dried prior to forming.
* Overheating.
* Mold or plastic sheet too dusty

Why does the plastic stick to the mould when I try to release?
* Mold not fixed on baseboard.
* Insufficient draft.
* Mold undercuts.

== Maintenance and Repairs ==
* Get Running - ''DONE''
* Add equipment sticker to machine for wiki info
* Fix platen/frame rubber seals
* Build basic test mold for demos and training. (PS1 Logo or Mask)
* Move vacuum gauge to before the valve, to measures the vacuum the pump is pulling (right now it's after the valve, so doesn't read anything useful)
* Install Additional/Larger Vacuum Tank to the system for more capacity
* More powerful Vacuum Pump
* Temperature Monitoring
* Mount Control Panel Box to machine
* Put on locking casters, or more permanent blocks/skid (machine is very heavy)
* make the platen stationary and the heater roll (complicated)
* Reduce the footprint of the machine (complicated)

== Authorizers ==
{| class="wikitable" border="2"
! Member
! Authorization Times
|-
|Andrew Camardella
|By Request
|}

=== How to Become an Authorizer ===
Get an ok from the area host. Successfully run an authorization supervised by an authorizer.

== List of Currently Authorized Users ==
{| class="wikitable" border="2"
! Authorized Member
! Authorized By
| Date
|-
|Andrew Camardella
|Self
|Sometime
|-
| Dan Sharp
| Andrew Camardella
| 1/12/19
|-
|Greg "Nerobro" Teiber
|Andrew Camardella
|1/12/19
|-
|Adam Stein
|Andrew Camardella
|1/12/19
|-
|Mariano Muñoz
|Andrew Camardella
|11/22/18
|}

[[Category: Hot Metals]]