Acrylic Sheet Heat Forming

The process is straightforward.

Acrylic sheet heat forming.

You can see my other artwork at http. Be sure that the marked line is above the heating element. I have used this technique for years with sizes up to 16 inches in diameter. Lower molecular weight acrylic forms more easily and with great detail but is more sensitive to differential heating.

Acrylic sheet is opaque to most wavelengths in the infrared spectrum the surface exposed to the heater absorbs almost all the energy. When they come into contact with the heat source there is likely to be an explosion. The only major variable that can affect the forming process is the thickness of the plastic sheet. Set the sheet of acrylic across the rests on the strip heater and turn it on.

To set up your plastic or acrylic sheet to bend simple curves for your miniature and model projects you need to first remove the protective covering from the material you wish to bend. These gases are potentially explosive if allowed to collect in an unventilated area. Temperatures can be off as much as 75 f 42 c possibly allowing the acrylic to overheat. Modify the timing as necessary.

Higher molecular weight acrylic has better heat strength during forming but is more difficult to form due to its higher melt strength and elastic memory. Since plexiglas acrylic sheet is an excellent insulator the surface exposed to the heater may overheat before the rest of the sheet is hot enough for forming. In the vacuum forming machine the sheet is heated until it becomes pliable while being held in place by the clamping frame. Preparing hot air gun w.

The rest of the sheet is heated largely by conduction. Turn the sheet of acrylic over on the heating element every 30 60 seconds in order to avoid damaging it. Bending shaping plastic with hot air gun heat gun. Set up plastic or acrylic sheet in a simple bending jig.

And because air is not forcibly circulated in a standard kitchen oven the fumes will accumulate. Once soft mold them into any shape you desire. Acrylic sheets give off highly flammable fumes when decomposed overheating. Work on a smooth glass surface as the heated plastic won t stick to glass.

Just heat the sheets above 150 degrees f for 2 3 minutes until they turn from translucent to clear using a heat gun. Most kitchen ovens do not have accurate temperature control. Upon cooling they will be strong and permanent. This article uses a sheet about 1 4 thick so all times are about 10 to 15 minutes per step.

For thicker sheets it will take longer and for thinner sheets it will take less time. This is one way i heat form acrylic glass. Wear gloves as you do this to avoid burning your hands. Use long thin 1 inch or so in width test strips to practice your technique and learn how your particular heat source affects your chosen thickness of plastic.

Ideal for perspex acrylic plexiglass polycarbonate.