flare tip for propane torch/bending plastic, lexan

[David Ragan]

Anyone know where I can get one of these?

Have always used a heat gun for bending acrylic, etc.

But, was reading in some old ShopNotes about using a flare tip for propane torch. Hmmmm. A new tool attachment. But, can't find one.

[Myk Rian]

What brand/type torch?
My Bernz-o-matic kit has one.

[David Ragan]

Is there any other kind?

Couldn't find anything on Benzomatic site (is this named after the infamous benzene molecule?)

[Myk Rian]

For $30 you can get a HF kit with hose. Gets good reviews.

[David Ragan]

Yes, @ HF they have an entire set for $30. They call it a flat tip.

Amazon has flat tip attachement for $8. I was searching under wrong word.

Thanks, Myk!

[David Ragan]

I found it at True Value. Little thing slides onto torch tip. Flame Spreader $7

[Lee Schierer]

In my opinion you are wasting your time. I've tried the flame spreader and even though it spreads the flame slightly, there is still a very distinct flame point right at the center. The softening point for acrylic is 176 degrees F so a heat gun is less likely to scorch the plastic than a 3600 degree propane torch flame.

[David Ragan]

In my opinion you are wasting your time. I've tried the flame spreader and even though it spreads the flame slightly, there is still a very distinct flame point right at the center. The softening point for acrylic is 176 degrees F so a heat gun is less likely to scorch the plastic than a 3600 degree propane torch flame.

that is disappointing. How do you bend plastic?

[fred marcuson]

that is disappointing. How do you bend plastic?


https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=160&v=ovqnIBQuezA

one way is in the vid .

[David Ragan]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=160&v=ovqnIBQuezA

one way is in the vid .

Cool video and heat machine....looks pricey. TAP is where I get special stuff from, though.

[Larry Edgerton]

I have a setup for bending Versatex, Kevlar heat blankets that heat to 450 degrees. Works on Lexan as well. Maybe you can find someone in your area that has one that will heat it for you. They are expensive, my setup was $1,300 but is quite a bit larger than the one in the video.

Something you could try, sandwich your stock between sheets of 1/4" durarock or similar and heat it that way. I did that before I got the blankets.

[David Ragan]

Here it is-$7 @ local Hdwe store. No, I have used, it--but, it I ever need one.....

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