Method for forming a fibre article

A method for forming a fibre article, the method comprising:

• locating a fibre preform between a first diaphragm and a second diaphragm, the preform comprising a heat-activatable binder;
• drawing a vacuum between the first and second diaphragms so as to hold the preform captive between the diaphragms;
• positioning a first heater plate in contact with the first diaphragm whilst the preform is held captive between the diaphragms;
• positioning a second heater plate in contact with the second diaphragm whilst the preform is held captive between the diaphragms;
• whilst the first heater plate is in contact with the first diaphragm and the second heater plate is in contact with the second diaphragm, drawing a vacuum between the first diaphragm and the first heater plate so as to increase the contact between the first diaphragm and the first heater plate;
• whilst the first heater plate is in contact with the first diaphragm and the second heater plate is in contact with the second diaphragm, releasing the vacuum between the first diaphragm and the first heater plate;
• and
• whilst the first heater plate is in contact with the first diaphragm and the second heater plate is in contact with the second diaphragm, drawing a vacuum between the second diaphragm and the second heater plate so as to increase the contact between the second diaphragm and the second heater plate.