Lexan/Polycarbonate...

[KerriAnn]

ive always used acrylic, and im about to make a psu cover w/ lexan instead. does anyone know how hot lexan needs to get before it becomes bendable?

 

[Zepper]

I think there was something about that on one of the modder's sites. I thing it was http://www.blingmethod.com ,
.bh.

 

[Zepper]

There are several sites where you can buy PSU covers made of clear plastic. Perhaps a better solution?
.bh.

 

[KerriAnn]

yeah, but i have like 4 sheets of 18" x 48" lexan... so i might as well learn how to use it...

 

[eddiedane]

Kerri, it bends at/around 280 degrees F. Probably the best method to bending it is using either a strip heater or a heat gun. If you use the heat gun, set it at about 500 degrees F and hold it about 6" off the material and constantly/slowly move it back and forth as you heat it (never stop in one place) if you get it too hot you will blister it and bubbles will form.

strip heater method

heat gun method

more good acrylic information

It really helps to have a straight edge to bend it along or force it against to get a clean/straight bend.

Hope this helps.

 

[KerriAnn]

thanks... i almost forgot about this thread!
i figured out the temp the hard way, after carefully cutting out my psu cover, i put it in the oven for a little too long, and wound up with something that looked alot like a sheet of white cotton candy.
i have been menaing to buy a heat gun, but i don't know anything about them...