Medical Appliance Technician how-to

How to Vacuum-Form a Brace

Even forming gives strong braces.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Even forming gives strong braces. In short: prepare; heat; drape, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Prepare the model.

  2. Heat the plastic.

  3. Drape over the model.

  4. Apply vacuum.

  5. Cool.

  6. Mark trim lines.

Safety reminders for medical appliance technicians

  • Use dust masks and ventilation
  • Wear eye protection
  • Use heat-resistant gloves
  • Follow tool safety

Orthosis · Prosthesis · Positive model · Thermoforming · Lamination · Socket: see the full medical appliance technician glossary.

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