Akilae
04.05.2021 12:01:02
Re: Bending plexiglass for curved windshield
See full version: Bending plexiglass for curved windshield
Re: Bending plexiglass for curved windshield
Re: Bending plexiglass for curved windshield
Now you've got me thinking I can make a windshield and not juxt my salon entry hatch. I don't have access to the CNC system, but I figure I could make a mold, cover it with felt, and let the plexiglass form around it. here
You asked where I got my windshield. Well, after some research, I found that most places wanted about $400.00 to heat form a windshield and you still need the moldings for the top & bottom edges. (I have about $160.00 in mine).
The plastic I used is 1/8 inch Lexan which is very flexible, but won't crack or split when bent cold. The moldings are a little more tricky. It involves annealing extruded aluminum stock and then shaping it around a wooden buck.
The following photos show the process I used to bend aluminum for the windshield moldings. here
Anyone got experience in this? I'm about to go for the hot air gun, but thought I would ask first. If this doesnt work I will try casting new lenses in acrylic resin, but that's all a bit fussy and sticky.
The coloured lenses on my deck level nav lights are horribly crazed. They are very old, and I can't get replacement lenses. But I like the fittings a lot, so would like to make replacement lenses. I am trying to bend 5mm thick perspex around a former to achieve a curve with radius of about 30mm ( it is a wooden rolling pin that happens to be the right size). So far I have tried boiling water, but that isnt hot enough. I have tried the oven, but the temperature seems to rise too rapidly and the perspex goes straight from being stiff and unbendable to floppy and fizzy and filled with bubbles.
Anyone got experience in this? I'm about to go for the hot air gun, but thought I would ask first. If this doesnt work I will try casting new lenses in acrylic resin, but that's all a bit fussy and sticky. here
Normally, boat windows are contained in a rubber window frame. To dismantle the window you have to disassemble the complete window, including the rubber window frame. This requires two pairs of hands: one person bends the rubber frame, while the second person pushes the window out. In the case of older acrylic windows, bear in mind that the window can break, which can lead to injuries. Always wear gloves when you push the window out. When the window is disassembled, the rubber window seal can be removed. It is advisable to clean the window frame well in soapy water using a mild household detergent, such as green soap. You can make rigid window frames smooth by greasing them with fabric softener. Leave it on overnight and the rubber will become smooth again. here
Lubricate the rubber window frame with Vaseline on both sides, this allows you to correct the position of the boat window in the frame when the rubber seal is placed in position.. Then apply the window rubber around the new window. Check that the rubber fits well all around and that the corners also fit snugly around the corners of the window.
The new window has exactly the same dimensions as the old window. Measure the window well, measuring twice to be extra sure. In our webshop, you fill in the sizes you require and we deliver the window in a rectangular shape. This may mean that you have to saw the rounded shape of the corners yourself, the tips in the cutting acrylic sheet and sawing polycarbonate blogs give the most important tips for sawing. Stick masking tape over the window foil and draw the cutting line on it. This prevents the window from being damaged during cutting. [links]
Acrylic boat windshields do not last forever. If a window is damaged, full of scratches, or almost opaque, it is time to install new windows. In our webshop, you will find various materials that are extremely suitable for boat glass replacement, whether you choose good and affordable or extremely durable and inexpensive. In this article, we offer advice on the choice of material and instructions for disassembly and assembly. Every handy do-it-yourselfer can replace plexiglass boat windshields by following these tips.
Two plastics are suitable for boat windshield replacement: cast acrylic sheet and polycarbonate. Acrylic sheet is the cheaper of the two while polycarbonate is the best choice if the window must be strong and impact resistant above all else. If the colour/transparency of the boat windows plays a role, then it is good to know that both plastics are available in different shades. Bear in mind that with polycarbonate, the tint will be darker with the thicker sheets. Both acrylic sheet and polycarbonate are available in various colours and in sheet thicknesses from 3 to 12 millimetres. Only in the case of tinted polycarbonate will the transparency become less as the sheet thickens. You can request a sample from us to determine the correct shade/material thickness.
Typically, boat windows are made from specialty textiles rather than glass. These textiles are designed to withstand everything the open water throws at them. Several different kinds of clear textiles are available today and knowing your marine window material options helps you ensure you’re getting the right product for your needs. here
Here’s a quick look at the most popular marine window materials on the market today:
Taking proper care of your boat keeps it seaworthy for longer. Choosing the right materials for your marine windows is one important choice boat owners need to make to do just that. [links]
When it comes to marine vinyl window materials, remember to consider the cost of each material and how that relates to its longevity. Some materials will last longer than others, which make their additional cost make sense over than cheaper materials that will require frequent replacement. Alternately, if you can maintain a more affordable and versatile fabric like polycarbonate or a clear polished pressed vinyl properly over time, why not choose the more cost effective solution (and get benefits like a roll up window?) How you use your boat and what your needs are will dictate which material is best for you.