STRIP HEATER

• CR Clarke 1000
• Thermoplastics: Acrylic, Polypropylene, HIP, Styrene
• Bending and forming
• Workshop Category: W2
• Workshop Risk Category: Green: Low Risk

Suitable for thermoplastics <8mm thickness <1000mm length.

Hot wire strip heater is used for heating thermoplastics to make them malleable for bending, either around a jig or freehand. Jigs must be made from a material that can withstand a higher temperature than the heater i.e Timber, MDF, metals. Usually used to form acrylic

Start with a Risk Assessment to ensure a safe work area:

1. Heat proof gloves must be worn
2. Remove loose fitting clothing, jewellery, and tie back long hair
3. Give the work your undivided attention
4. Make sure the area is clear of people
5. Ensure machine is free from combustibles and clean

Operational Safety Rules:

1. Prior to turning on machine ensure plastics to be formed are pre-cut, clean, and any protective sheeting is removed
2. Adjust heater wires to ensure they are correct spacing for your bend, larger distance between wires will result in larger radius fillets
3. Turn on the strip heater with the orange switch on the front of the machine, it will take around 3 minutes to heat up. Ensure protective wire cover is closed during this time – the machine will not heat up when whilst the cover is open
4. Never leave plastic heating in the machine for long enough for it to melt. Check plastic regularly by lifting cover and bending heated section of material. If plastic is darkening or blistering remove immediately
5. When malleable, remove piece of plastic and form to desired angel
6. Turn off machine when finished