Turning Lucite

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ed4copies

Local Chapter Manager
Joined
Mar 25, 2005
Messages
24,523
Location
Racine, WI, USA.
In this thread: Plastic?

the question was asked, how are the numerous types of plastic blanks different from each other. I gave a short (possibly terse) answer and I was surprised how much interest the thread got.

Our new librarian (and one of my good friends), Wayne suggested that we try to get answers that were "library-worthy" and incorporate this as an article. Honestly, I think that is such a good idea that I am starting a few of these threads and I will incorporate the information into an article for Exotics and make it available to the IAP Library.

Lucite is a tradename. The product is commercially cast and sold as pen blanks.

I believe Lucite is slightly less "chippy" than Acrylester, and the "end product pen" is, usually very translucent. As a result the patterns can be very dramatic, making the pen desirable.

I will let others give more information on Lucite.

ExoticBlanks has introduced a "look-alike" called "Lucitylic". This is an acrylic product that is less expensive, turns much easier and the final product looks like Lucite.
 

Haynie

Member
Joined
May 20, 2011
Messages
3,516
Location
Page Arizona
I really like turning Lucite. Here is what I have learned

1-Best to sand off the corners before turning. Less chipping this way
2-If you don't sand the corners down then expect sharp chips to fly everywhere. You will be reminded why it is important to wear the face shield
3-I have not had an issue with cutting Lucite to size but still wrap the cut area with tape to avoid chipping
4-I lube with WD40. Water did not allow as clean a drill hole
5-Go slow at the end of the hole or stop short to avoid losing part of the blank. The lube helps here too
6-Sharp tools and sharp bits.

Something in the turning world I have experience with. Lucite pens look amazing when all shined up.
 
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