Casting with Acrylic Resin: October 27, 2012
Harry Newman demonstrated the process of embedding objects such as buttons, sea shells, watch gears, small computer components, and other colorful objects in acryllic plastic and then turning and polishing those castings to produce unique pens, bottle stoppers, and tops.
The acrylic is cast in several layers, some colored, to support and fully embed the object. Air bubbles need to be removed.
The acrylic is turned at 1250 RPM with sharp tools. You need to take smooth shavings to avoid the rough surface that results when a tool chatters and tears out small chunks of plastic.
Wet sanding with plastic polishing pads provides the crystal clear plastic with a glass-like surface. The rounded surface acts like a magnifying glass and emphasizes the embedded stepper motor armature.
by WVWA, a chapter of the American Association of WoodturnersReturn to the Events page