Plexiglass is 17 times stronger than regular glass, at half the weight. It was invented in 1843, and was introduced as a transparent sheet in 1937. Plexiglas played an important role in World War II as bullet-resistant glazing used in warplanes. It is much more durable and flexible than glass. With this flexibility, plexiglass is easier to install than traditional glass. Plexiglass is available in various thicknesses, bends when heated and is formed in varying shapes.
Instructions
1. Inspect the plexiglass for smoothness. Remove the plastic cover on both sides before attempting to bend it. Brush off any debris or other small pieces, particularly around the edges.
2. Mark the plexiglass at the desired bending point. Put on gloves and safety goggles. Prepare a heat gun.
3. Secure the plexiglass in a vise. Move the heat gun from side to side across the mark on the plexiglass. Do not heat in one place for too long, or the plexiglass will burn.
4. Move the heat gun in a straight motion along the line; test periodically to see if the plexiglas is ready to bend and form. Continue until the plexiglass begins to bend. Form it to the desired shape, and bend by hand. Turn off the heat gun once the bending has started.
5. Finish forming the plexiglass, and remove it from the vise. Let the plexiglass cool down upon completion, and finish bending it to the desired shape.
