Using a Strip Heater

Plastics such as acrylic can be formed (shaped) in different ways. One of the most popular methods of shaping plastic materials like acrylic is to fold (bend) it on a ‘strip heater’, at different angles. An example of a strip heater is shown below. A heating element extends along the length of the strip heater and gives off intense heat when it is turned on.




STAGES INVOLVED IN USING THE STRIP HEATER

	STAGE ONE: The position of the fold is marked with a china-graph pencil. With this type of pencil the line can be removed easily later.

	STAGE TWO: The strip heater is turned on. Some dials allow the user to vary the amount of heat generated by the heating element.

	STAGE THREE: The plastic is placed across the rests, above the heating element and the plastic is turned over every 30 seconds - one minute. This stops the heat rising from the element damaging the surface of the plastic.

	STAGE FOUR: When the plastic becomes flexible it is placed in a ‘jig’. The jig is made to the correct angle, in the example opposite - 90 degrees. A square section block is then pressed against the plastic to hold it in position as it cools.

1. Using diagrams and notes, describe the stages involved in the use of the strip heater. 2. Explain the safety rules you feel are necessary for the use of this 'hot' equipment.