This is my attempt at an inexpensive vacuum press so that I can understand how it functions. It is made out of vinyl sheeting and a some pvc parts. Before I got into board building, I was very much into pneumatics (compressed air), so I understand all the principles behind the vacuum press. Still however I understand that theory and reality can sometimes be two different beast. For this reason I went simple and cheap to develop a grasp on the vacuum molding process.
Parts:
Vinyl Sheet - Free (left over from banner making supplies)
1/2" pvc bushing - $.40
3/4 pvc bushing -$.50
Automotive Goop: Contact cement - $5
Shrader Valve (tire valve) - Free (left over from another project)
Mini Tire inflater - Free
Misc hose - Free (also left over)
Total:~$6
I modified the compressor to be a vacuum pump in a similar manor to this
Instuctable Vacuum Pump. Besides that everything else is pretty self explanatory.
