Tools Utilised to Work With Perspex

For any individual working with Perspex in Sydney for the first time, it is important to have a sound idea about the tools that would be required for the purpose. Since Perspex is entirely transparent, any mistake on it can be impossible to conceal. The aim should be building things to make them look professional. And for that, having the right tools is a must.

Let’s have a look at some important tools generally used for working with Perspex:

Router : 

This is perhaps the most essential tool that can be used to achieve professional results while working with any type of acrylic, be it Perspex or Plexiglass. A router that can accept ½ as well as ¼ inch shank bits is beneficial. It must have guide collars pre-fitted to the body. It should also have a variant which can be mounted under the work table so that the cutter protrudes from the surface.

Solvent Cement : 

This is the adhesive which chemically melts Perspex and cements it by allowing molecules to combine and form clear, strong and watertight joints. The most commonly used method for Perspex fabrication is called capillary cementing. In this method, the parts that must be connected are held in place after which, the adhesive is allowed to flow in between them.

Scrapers : 

Scrapers are tools made from steel that feature a sharp edge which can be used for scraping away tool marks from Perspex for making its edges square and smooth. Scrapers can also be utilised to make glue joints fit properly and prepare better surfaces for the purpose of flame polishing.

Scoring Tool : 

This is the best tool for cutting Perspex without leaving behind any heavy scratch or creating a weak area. It works really well for ¼ and ⅛ inch thick material. However, larger pieces would require an individual to apply more pressure.

Blow Torch : 

The blow torch is essentially a plane propane flame torch meant to be used for polishing the edges of Perspex in order to give them a bright and clear finish. Since flame polishing requires a good amount of practice, it is generally advised to test one’s skills on some scrap prior to working with the main project.

Apart from the above mentioned primary tools, there are several other devices like clamps, squares, bandsaws, strip heaters, hole saws, etc. that may be required for working with Perspex in Sydney.