Plexi

[theartist07]

I've been looking into bending some of my own stands from plexiglass. I found some videos and learned about the heat strips. Does anyone have any info they would share on this. It really do look to hard to make your own "system". Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Jim

 

[slink74659]

I'd be interested too. I'd like to make a few stands too. Just to say I did it.

 

[theartist07]

http://www.briskheat.com/p-152-rh-plastic-bending-strip-heater-05in-x-36in-13mm-x-915mm-120v.aspx

This is one i found, they also give a drawing for the wood layout, or jig. Think i'll check out the local hardware store also. I found a couple videos on youtube also. Just thought i'd share that.

Jim

 

[hilltopper46]

I've made some with a shop heat gun - mines a Craftsman. It helps to have a block of wood or something to support the plexi as it cools to the shape you want it. it's funny, as it warms near to the point of moldability, it gets looser and looser but still springs back, then all of a sudden gets to where you can tie a knot into it if you want. That's when you shape it, but if you don't hold it in the desired shape, gravity can do funny things to it while it cools.

 

[low_48]

If you use polycarbonate, some call it lexan but that is a product name, you can bend it cold. I put it in the sheet metal brake at work and bend a tight 90 degree bend, with no cracking or breaking.

 

[Dario]

I made a few using a disposable lighter...just make sure you keep it moving.

Make a pattern with a cardboard and test the angle and length you need. shape a strip of plexi and sand all the ends before bending (easier to do than after).

 

[theartist07]

Thanks for the replies, i'm going to try it. Another member here was kind enough that he's going to do some trading with me on a strip, all i'll have to do is put the plug on the end. I'm still open to all thoughts. I tried the torch and the lighter but came up with bubbles, which just don't work for me.

Thanks All,
Jim

 

[cozee]

Check for your area for a local plastics supplier. They should have all the info and equipment (and plastic!!) you'll need. I used to bend acrylics for other projects with a heat gun with good results but with a heating strip I had gotten from my local supplier, bending became much easier and more spot on as the strip heats the area you want to bend and not the surrounding area as did the heat gun.