The most suitable method for batch production of my product is VACUUM FORMING.  This is because all of the necessary facilities are readily available.  It is used to manufacture a variety of products in thermoplastic materials.  These products range in size from garden pond liners to food trays used in supermarkets.  

The first thing which is done in the process is the mould being attached to a support plate.  The platen and mould are then lowered and rigid thermoplastic sheet material is clamped onto an air tight gasket and usually heated from above.  Once the thermoplastic sheet is softened enough, then air is blown in to raise the sheet in a slight bubble before the platen is raised bringing the mould into contact with the plastic.

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Any trapped air remaining between the platen and the heated plastic sheet is then evacuated by a vacuum pump.  Atmospheric pressure acting over the top surface completes the forming process by pressing the plastic sheet onto the mould.  Once the plastic sheet is cooled down to below it’s freeze point the air flow is reversed to lift the forming off the mould.  

Moulds can be made from a variety of materials such as wood, medium density fibreboard ...

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