RIDGID WL1200 Owner's Manual download pdf (Page 38)

How to Turn Plastics

Types Of Plastics

There are two general groups of plastics. The first in-

cludes all phenol plastics molded under heat and pres-

sure. Bakelite and Formica are examples. In the second

are all catalyst setting plastics of various bases sold under

such trade names as Lucite, Catalin, Cast Bakelite, Marb-

lette, Tenite and Trafford. Those in the second group are

most generally used for craftwork. They are easy to turn,

being a little harder than wood but much softer than any

of the soft metals.

Mounting The Work

Rods can be mounted between centers, using wood

mounting centers. When the spur center is used, slots

should be sawed across the work.

Use Of Wood Turning Chisels

Standard wood turning chisels are excellent for turning

plastics by means of scraping methods. The tool rest

should be slightly below center and the chisel handle

should be held a little higher than the cutting edge to give

a negative rake. Scraping tools should be used. The area

contacted by the tool should be kept to a minimum. A

large contact area, such as the full edge of the spear-point

chisel, will cause chatter and probable chipping.

Properly worked, the chip comes off in a continuous rib-

bon. In cold weather, plastic may become brittle and

should be tempered in warm water for about ten minutes

before turning.

Use Of Formed Tools For Production And Similar

Operations

When a number of identical pieces are to be produced, all

having a distinctive surface pattern, preformed tools will

speed the work and assure uniformity. Patterns like those

illustrated can be created by grinding thin (.020 to .010)

gauge aluminum strips. A holder, like the one shown, can

then be used to support any one of your prepared strips -

and guide it against the workpiece.

Polishing Plastics

Start with sanding. First use 150-grit dry paper to remove

tool marks; then finish off with 150-grit and 400-grit pa-

pers, in succession, used wet. Press lightly to avoid over-

heating and marring of the work. Buffing gives the final

polish, using the polishing compounds commonly sup-

plied for this purpose. Do not press too hard or hold wheel

at one spot too long - keep moving around - otherwise the

plastic might become heat marked.

How to Use Your RIDGID Wood Lathe (continued)

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RIDGID WL1200 Owner's Manual Page 38

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