Bending acrylic enables you to bring your creative visions to life with this adaptable thermoplastic material. Acrylic can be bent by applying heat without changing its color. It’s important to note that acrylics are heat resistant up to 160 degrees Celsius, and excessive heat exposure can damage the material. Here are 5 simple methods for bending acrylic.

 

Materials needed:
  • Acrylic Panels
  • Ruler
  • Scrap wood
  • Quick-release bar clip/Clamp
  • Heat-resistant gloves
  • Heat gun
  • Acrylic bending machine
  • Scissor-type acrylic angle bender

 

5 Steps to bend acrylic sheets

1. Cut your acrylic sheets to your desired size

Before starting your project, it’s important to determine your desired size. Acrylic suppliers usually offer laser-cutting services which guarantee neat and polished edges.

2. Prepare your acrylic sheet for bending

For easier removal of the protective film, it is advisable to take off the two protective films before heating. Moreover, it is important to prioritize safety by wearing heat-resistant gloves when utilizing any heating tool.

3. Applying heat to acrylic sheets

Here’s the 3 equipment you can use to bend acrylic sheets:

    • Heat Gun – Before starting, ensure that the acrylic is securely clamped onto scraps of wood to prevent any unnecessary movement. Apply heat to the acrylic and gently move the heat gun to distribute the heat evenly.
    • Bending Machine – Place the acrylic on top of the bending machine and ensure that the heat is evenly distributed by flipping it.
    • Scissor-type acrylic angle bender – When creating 3D letter cutouts from acrylic, heat it evenly by holding the bending tool upwards and clamping it to every corner of the letter.

Do not exceed 160 degrees Celsius to prevent bubbles and to avoid damaging the material.

4. Apply Pressure

When the acrylic panel starts to bend by itself, you can apply pressure to shape it into your desired design. It’s also helpful to use a tool or triangular ruler to ensure the angles are correct.

5. Allow the acrylic to cool

After achieving your desired design, it is important to allow it to cool before using or displaying it to maintain its new shape.

 

Where to buy acrylic sheets 

If you want to hone your creative skills by using acrylic sheets but are unsure where to find acrylic glass in Manila, visit Acrybest. They are one of the trusted suppliers of acrylic sheets in the Philippines and can be found in all Polylite stores nationwide. For quicker transactions, don’t hesitate to contact us.