Repairing Polycarbonate Face Shields

[Michael Mills]

Hello Creekers,

I tried this method on my visor that had light scratches/scuffs and it worked perfectly.
http://maic.jmu.edu/journal/10.2/r&d/heafitz/heafitz.htm (http://maic.jmu.edu/journal/10.2/r&d/heafitz/heafitz.htm)
I used a mapp gas torch (I’m sure a propane torch would work also) so I backed away about 10-12 inches. It was amazing how quickly the polycarbonate was restored to an "as new" condition. It took about three minutes to do the entire shield.

Question - For those who use protective mylar lens covers, is there a problem with dust getting between the covers and the face shield?
Mike

[David Walser]

I'd never have thought of using a heat gun to fix the scratches in a face shield. I've used my buffing wheel (with Don Pencil's PL compound) to remove the scratches from my face shield, but it takes a long time and it's difficult to get a uniform surface. The heat treatment method for removing scratches sounds like it would be much quicker and that it would be easier to produce uniform results.

[Rick Prosser]

I have noticed dust under the edges of the mylar (1/4" or so), but having it installed tight - have not noticed any problems. I expect more scratches around the edge, so the heat treatment will come in handy - thanks.

[Josh Reet]

Hello Creekers,

I tried this method on my visor that had light scratches/scuffs and it worked perfectly.
http://maic.jmu.edu/journal/10.2/r&d/heafitz/heafitz.htm (http://maic.jmu.edu/journal/10.2/r&d/heafitz/heafitz.htm)


Well, if it's good enough for deminers, it's probably good enough for me.

Seriously, what a job! Talk about stressful.

[Richard Madison]

If you miscalculate a bit (with your heat source) it would also be amazing how quickly the faceshield has a hole in it. Some folks like the Novus 3-step polishing system to restore plastic faceshields. Have read that it also works well on CA finishes.

[curtis rosche]

for get miscalculating. i would be willing to bet that the amount of heat it takes will change the properties slightly and that it wont be as effective at saving your face from a flying object

[Bernie Weishapl]

I use the beall buff system on mine and the tripoli. Works pretty good.

[Mike Peace]

I tried a 1500 W heat gun 1-2" from surface for less than 10 sec and constantly moving like the article said. Oh well, it was worth a try. Totally distorted the vision. I found a cheap replacement at HF for less than $4. Same certification at the Willson I had. Now I can see again. I would have bought a spare but I got their last one.