Acrylic blanks

[smoker1954]

IT IS NOW GETTING COLDER OUT , I AM IN THE GARAGE TURNING A PEN OUT OF ACRYLIC AND IT SNAPS. COULD IT BE DUE TO THE WEATHER GETTING COLD OUTSIDE? IT DOESN'T HAPPEN WHEN I DO WOOD. ANY SUGGESTION WILL BE HELPFUL. I AM NEW AT PEN TURNING..THANKS

 

[Holz Mechaniker]

There at too many variables to just point to cold temps. The blank could have been dropped and a hairline crack happened. Poor casting. just to name a few

 

[ed4copies]

YES, if it is cold, it becomes more brittle.

 

[Ted iin Michigan]

Also - there are a lot of different types of acrylics. Some tend to be more brittle than others. And on top of that, some acrylics aren't even acrylics.

 

[SDB777]

Welcome aboard!!!!


As others have said....too many variables.





Scott (shoulda got one of ours) B

 

[Charles]

Also, Make sure your tools are SHARP, if not they will catch.

 

[marshall1225]

Just turned my 1st acrylic pen in the garage. Was a bit chilly but a sweat shirt was all I needed. I was extra careful not to apply to much pressure during the assembly and made sure it was always straight. I was careful during the turning and did not take to much off at once. Not sure if this is the key to saving acrylic blanks but I was careful not to hurry.