Bending and Forming Plastics with Heat
When it comes to forming plastics there are several different methods that can be used. One of the most common methods is bending and forming with heat. This is a technique that requires carefulness and understanding of the different materials' properties. In this article we will take a look at which materials can be bent, what temperature requirements exist and how to avoid common mistakes.
Materials that can be Bent
We offer a wide range of materials that can be bent, such as PC, PMMA, PVC and PE. These materials all have different properties and require different approaches. PC and PMMA are for example very formable and can be bent with relatively low heat, while PVC and PE require higher temperatures.
An important factor to consider when bending plastics is the material's Shore hardness. For example PE-HD has a Shore hardness of 65° D, while PE-UHMW has a Shore hardness of 66° D. This difference in Shore hardness can affect the material's formability and bendability.
Temperature Requirements
When it comes to bending plastics with heat the temperature is a critical factor. If the temperature is too low the material will not be formed correctly, while a too high temperature can result in the material being damaged or destroyed. For example PC requires a temperature of around 120-140°C to be bent, while PMMA requires a temperature of around 80-100°C.
A good rule is to always follow the material's recommended temperature interval to avoid damage or incorrect forming. But what happens if you do not follow these recommendations? Can you still achieve a good result or will the material be damaged forever?
Tools and Equipment
When bending plastics with heat special equipment and tools are required. A common tool used is a bending machine, which can heat up the material to the right temperature and then form it into a specific shape. It is also important to have access to a good heat source, such as an oven or a heat gun.
Another important factor is the choice of forming tool. This tool must be made of a material that can withstand high temperatures and not be damaged by the heat. Common materials for forming tools are for example steel or aluminum.
Spring-back and Minimum Bending Radius
When bending plastics with heat it can happen that the material "springs back" after forming, that is it returns to its original shape. This can be due to the material's elasticity and can be avoided by using a suitable forming technique.
Another important factor is the minimum bending radius that the material can handle. If the bending radius is too small the material can be damaged or destroyed. For example PE-HD can be bent with a minimum bending radius of around 10 mm, while PE-UHMW requires a bending radius of at least 20 mm.
Line Bending vs Oven Heating
There are two main methods for bending plastics with heat: line bending and oven heating. Line bending means that the material is heated up locally along a specific line, while oven heating means that the entire material is heated up in an oven.
Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Line bending can provide a more precise forming, while oven heating can provide a more even heat distribution. But which method is best for your project?
Common Mistakes
When bending plastics with heat there are several common mistakes that can be made. A common mistake is not to follow the material's recommended temperature interval, which can result in damage or incorrect forming.
Another common mistake is not to use a suitable forming technique, which can lead to the material "springing back" after forming. But how can you avoid these mistakes and achieve a good result?
If you have questions about how to bend and form plastics with heat, or if you need advice on which materials and tools are best suited for your project, you can always contact us. We have long experience of working with plastics and can help you find the right solution for your needs.
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