Pressure Forming is the process of creating a mould or part by applying air pressure to a heated sheet of plastic. It is capable of producing parts or tools with a high degree of detail and texture.
The plastic sheet is first placed in the press machine above the mould. Heat is applied from above. When the correct temperature is reached, compressed air forces the sheet onto the mould. A vent allows the air to escape. Once sufficiently cooled and hardened, the plastic sheet is removed from the mould, creating a plastic shell that can be modified and adjusted to meet specifications.