Line Bending

Question 1

Line bending

Answer 1

Line bending is used to make simple bends in a sheet of thermoplastic polymer. A simple enclosure can be made from two U-shaped parts then attached together using a suitable adhesive.
Line bending involves heating the material along a line using a heating element. The plastic softens as it heats allowing it to be bent. As the plastic cools it will retain its shape.
A wooden former is often used to ensure accurate bending.

Question 2

Disadvantages of line bending

Answer 2

Materials may become burnt if exposed for too long depending on the make of the machine production time may change depending on material and is difficult to correct once bent.

Question 3

Advantages of line bending

Answer 3

.Straight bends are produced very efficiently
.Set up costs are low
.No tooling is involved