Acrylic Tank Question

[Blind Tree Frog]

Stupid question that's been bugging me, but what are the correct ways of curving acrylic, either for a bow front style tank or curved corners?

 

I know it's just proper application of heat and a mold to form over, but I figured I'd see if anyone has any more detailed information as i search for it.

[TJG]

http://www.tapplastics.com/shop/product.php?pid=291&

 

if you really want to have bent corners on a diy tank your going to need something like that

[fade2black]

The correct way is using a thermoforming oven and a mold. There are many ways to actually do it, but that is the correct way. For bent corners you just need a strip heater. I made one a few weeks ago and it isn't too hard, you just need to make sure the bends are perfectly straight and perpendicular or nothing will remain square.

 

 

 

 

[Blind Tree Frog]

I've seen that tank.

 

 

So poor man's technique with a torch and a piece of PVC could work, but it won't be easy. Thanks.

[fade2black]

Just keep in mind that acrylic is extremely flammable. I have had sheet catch on fire in my laser before, so using a torch is dangerous. I don't recommend it, but do so at your own risk.

 

You can build your own strip heater for about $50 too. Get this heating element and make your own enclosure for it frmo MDF. That is what I did and it works perfectly. I'll post some pictures when I get home.

[qfour20]

Another option is a "strip" heater:

 

Here's one by Moroso at Jegs

 

hth

 

-q

 

**edit** Please disregard, as the link f2b posted is probabbly a better bet.