Turning Lucite...

[mark james]

I am looking for folks who have turned Lucite and may have suggestions.

I just got received a few blanks (Exotic Blanks), and would dearly like not to ruin these.

I am doing my reading, so I know the basics (sharp tools, don't melt it while drilling and turn it into goo...). This also is a GREAT resource:

http://content.penturners.org/library/general_reference/The_Acrylic_Revolution.pdf

I have turned PR, Alumilite, AA, Inlace, etc... But never Lucite.

So, if you have any experience or suggestions, I will gladly listen and learn.

Thanks!

 

[edstreet]

I have.

There are several ways to handle it but I think the best is with non-standard drill bits. The jobbers cause wall friction and heat buildup, which is your enemy. Going slow or fast you will melt. Using pullout you will also melt.

Forstner bits has a reduced shank and the chips does not abrade the walls, cleaner cut and clear out.

The other way, which we see in shops like Edison (video's posted) is undersize drill then ream to size.