° Polycarbonate ??/ The material is probably going to be 1/2 inch thick ??/ Some one some where said if you paint your form black it will also help in the shape shifting if you will??/ Polycarbonate you can't paint it can you ??/tygerdawg said:
Sorry typo??/ Late entree 1/4" material looking for something with a tint and I keep thinking about distortion after the first bend and the let off (cooling off reflex's) what's the second bend going to do the first when attempting to reheat for the second bend, dose this stuff (material)want to replicate its original shape on temperature cooling ??/ I'm starting to think the the exact shape is going to have to be a negative mold with a Vacuum in vacuum process at temperature variance and then what's the release shape (re-lacks at ambient Temperature) going to look like at what rate of cooling ??/ is it going to have to be rapidly cooled ??/ Its starting to sound to expensive to litigate the cost??/ and still have several attempts before perfection ??/tygerdawg said:
Plexiglass, also known as acrylic glass, is a lightweight and shatter-resistant plastic material. It is a type of thermoplastic, meaning it can be melted and reshaped, making it easier to form into different shapes compared to traditional glass. Additionally, plexiglass is more durable and has better UV resistance than traditional glass.
The most common methods of forming and shaping plexiglass include thermoforming, which involves heating the material and then molding it into shape, and injection molding, which uses a mold and high-pressure injection to shape the material. Other methods include vacuum forming, blow molding, and CNC machining.
Plexiglass has many benefits, which make it a popular choice in manufacturing and construction. It is lightweight, transparent, and shatter-resistant, making it a safer alternative to traditional glass. It is also more cost-effective, as it can be easily molded into complex shapes, reducing the need for labor-intensive processes. Additionally, plexiglass has better weather resistance and is more durable, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Plexiglass is used in a wide range of applications, including windows, skylights, signage, protective barriers, and even as a substitute for traditional glass in aquariums. It is also commonly used in the automotive, aerospace, and medical industries due to its lightweight and shatter-resistant properties. Additionally, plexiglass is used in furniture, display cases, and various household items.
When working with plexiglass, it is important to wear protective gear such as goggles, gloves, and a dust mask to avoid inhaling any dust particles. The material should be cut and shaped in a well-ventilated area to prevent the buildup of fumes. It is also essential to handle plexiglass carefully, as it can be easily scratched or cracked if not handled properly.
