The special plastic bits have a different point angle (typically 90
degrees vs. 118 degrees for a standard bit) making them work better with
the relatively brittle Plex.. Go slowly with it.
If you can get it, I also recommend using "Lucite L", which is a type of
plastic which is similar to Plexiglas but machines much more smoothly
without the melting seen in standard Plexiglas. I've turned Lucite L on
a lathe and it cuts like butter, with nice clean shavings instead of
sticky melted blobs. Drills nicely too.
Good luck.
-Tom
Computer Collector Newsletter wrote:
>It's only "slightly" off-topic because what I'm building is a new case for my
>Apple 1 "Replica 1" board.
>
>I've heard some horror stories about whole (expensive!) sheets of plexiglass
>simply breaking in half when incorrectly drilled through. The guy at the
>plastic supply company tried selling me a special drill bit, but I'm hesitant
>about that. Does anyone has hands-on experience and tips (vs. just
>speculation) about working with this stuff? This computer will be on display
>as some public events, so the final appearance is very important.
>
>
>
--
Thomas Hudson
http://portdistrict5.org -- 5th District Aldermanic Website
http://portev.org -- Electric Vehicles, Solar Power & More
http://portgardenclub.org -- Port Washington Garden Club
http://portlightstation.org -- Light Station Restoration
http://klanky.com -- Animation Projects
Received on Sun Jan 16 2005 - 00:39:10 GMT