Mirror Bending
Thanks to its thermoplastic properties, Plaskolite mirror sheet can be bent to nearly any desired form. Proper techniques and timing are critical. The Plaskolite mirror sheet fabrication guide walks fabricators through the process.
Mirror Bending
Line or strip bending is best accomplished by applying an intense narrow band of heat approximately 3mm away from the mirror substrate. 1.15mm nichrome (nickle-chrome) resistance wire is a commonly used heating element.
Place the mirror face toward the heating element. Do not attempt to heat the paint side. Doing so will prolong heating times and cause blushing, a dulling of the mirrors reflective finish.
Adjust your power source so that the wire becomes a medium to bright red color.
Peel all masking several inches away from the bend area. Masking left in place, either poly or paper, will increase heating time and yield poor results.
Acrylic will become bendable at 143 degrees C to 163 degrees C. Bending should be done at the coldest possible temperature requiring gentle force to make the bend. 3mm mirror should become pliable enough to bend within 20 to 25 seconds.
Timing is critical. Under heating will cause a warpage along the bend line and undue stress which may lead to cracking. Overheating will cause blushing.
Cooling should be done as quickly as possible by air circulation.