www.TK560.com

[Everwolf]

http://www.steltercreative.com/STELTER1/Vacuum_Forminx.html

They sell vacuum forming machines but they are pricey at $4500 for a 2x2.

But the lift is pneumatic. I am sure that someone on here could tell us how to duplicate it.

Watched a video on youtube of how it works.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XPeSn23tuE

Seems cool.
_________________
Everwolf

"Pain heals, chicks dig scars, glory lasts forever." -Shane Falco

[fz1]

To duplicate:
First your clamp frame should move withought any binding up and down when lifted from both sides with 2 people.

Second Measure the travel needed from your cylinders.

third. Check BIMBA. They have about the best price on new or check e-bay or used machinery supply houses for some that can work. Do not buy hydraulic type as they need more pressure sometimes.

fourth. Decide if you want mechanical control or electric control. Find a 2 port 5 way valve to control operation. Make sure to use flow controls on the air inputs to the cylinders. This controls the speed of travel.
Electric valves come in many styles and control voltages. Again used is fine. You can use single acting spring return. This save some cost also.

fifth. Air pressure supply regulated. This keeps everything stable.

This should help you understand how simple it is to do. You can also control most operations of the machine with the right valves including vacuum but that takes a control valve rated for vacuum usage. Standard valves will leak when used for vacuum.
Even temp control can be controlled. I still have some nice temp controllers from some used machines.
Glad to help. Hope this makes it easier for you.

[Fredo]

Read this post by harley guy- finally done, steel production table- I think its on about page 13 now. It should answer some of your questions..............Fredo

[fz1]