What is thermosetting plastic p
Plastic that can only be heated and formed once, it’s the perfect plastic for items that must withstand high temperatures such as the handle or a saucepan
What is thermoplastic
Plastics that can be softened and reshaped again and again. Each type of plastic is softened at a different time. Some thermo plastics can withstand temperatures over 100c, although most will softened below
What are the advantages of plastic
Very durable
Can be formed into complex shapes
Resist corrosion
Poor conductors of heat and elec
Water resistant
Chemical resistant
Many types+many colours
What are the disadvantages of plastic
Expensive
Not biodegradable
Not environmentaly friendly
Use lots of energy to produce
Can be a fire hazard
Name two types of thermoplastics
Acrylic
PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
What do you cut plastic with
A scroll saw or hacksaw
Filing and smoothing
After being cut, the rough edges of acrylic must be filed and polished to be a smooth as the surface
What procedures must you take when drilling plastic
Hold firmly using a vice or clamp
Use waste wood underneath so it doesn’t splinter
Use fast speed slow feed
How do you bend plastic
Apply heat precisely using electric strip heater. The heat softens the acrylic, which can then be formed into a particular shape
What’s a former
A former is a simple mould that assists the accurate bending of the acrylic. It helps ensure the correct angle is obtained
