VacTran appears to be a specialized software for the design, modeling, and analysis of vacuum forming or thermoforming processes. It is used to simulate how a heated plastic sheet conforms to a mold under vacuum pressure.

The search results show it was developed by G. N. Thermoforming Equipment, Inc. and is often mentioned in academic or industry contexts for its ability to predict issues like wall thickness distribution and webbing in complex thermoformed parts.

Key Capabilities (Based on Software's General Function)

While details for version 3.49 are unavailable, the core functionality of VacTran includes:

• Process Simulation: Modeling the heating and deformation of a plastic sheet.

• Thickness Analysis: Predicting the final wall thickness distribution of the formed part, which is critical for strength, weight, and cost.

• Defect Prediction: Identifying potential forming defects like excessive thinning, webbing, or wrinkles.

• Mold Design Aid: Helping engineers design molds and optimize process parameters (like sheet temperature, cycle time, vacuum pressure) before building physical tools.