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linkxsc Newbie
Joined: 16 Aug 2010 Posts: 9
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Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2012 4:52 pm Post subject: Microwave for heating plastic? |
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Hey so I'm building a vacuum former again, instead of a flip flop liek my previous ones I'm doing an oven over the platen one. What I'm wondering though, sicne i dont feel like tearing apart a bunch of waffleirons and toaster ovens again. Could one cut the end off of a microwave and use that as the source for heating the plastic (ofcourse, it would be controlled remotely, with the operator on teh other side of a wall and a couple motors to raise and lower the plastic)? or would that be considered too dangerous? |
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IMMark Expert
Joined: 18 Nov 2010 Posts: 189 Location: Columbus, Ohio
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Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2012 5:34 pm Post subject: |
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I would say no.
High on the dangerous scale, and some plastics won't absorb microwaves.
They pass through it without heating it. The way most plastics "melt" in a microwave, is from the food inside them getting over heated and thus melting the plastic...not from the microwaves themselves.
I am sure there are others that can get more technical, but I think you would be better off, going with the tried and true nichrome wire method.
Mark |
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linkxsc Newbie
Joined: 16 Aug 2010 Posts: 9
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Posted: Mon Jun 04, 2012 2:32 pm Post subject: |
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Figured as much, Guess back to goodwill to buy used toasters and stuff again. |
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jdougn Guru
Joined: 18 Mar 2009 Posts: 714 Location: Louisville KY area
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Posted: Mon Jun 11, 2012 6:15 am Post subject: |
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The Nichrome wire is a great suggestion. It's not very expensive and gives nice even heat when installed properly. Maybe a little more time consuming overall though. _________________ DougN - Just in case you're wondering, I got my "rating" legitimately... by posting aimless drivel, useless advice, and pointless questions. |
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