filing plastic

[Wakefield Turntables]

Can someone tell me if there is a specific type of file for plastic. I'm trying to file a neat square edge on some plastic.

Thanks

A

[brian2957]

I would just use a fine file Andy . It will probably block up with the plastic so keep a fine wire brush handy to clean it . Take your time and make sure the piece of plastic is well secured .

[walpurgis]

It depends on how much you want to take off. Files rather tend to rough the surface up too much for my liking on plastic. I've used fine 400 grade wet/dry paper glued to strips of hardboard rather than a file. You can then use 600 grade to finish, it leaves an almost polished finish.

[Wakefield Turntables]

I would just use a fine file Andy . It will probably block up with the plastic so keep a fine wire brush handy to clean it . Take your time and make sure the piece of plastic is well secured .


It depends on how much you want to take off. Files rather tend to rough the surface up too much for my liking on plastic. I've used fine 400 grade wet/dry paper glued to strips of hardboard rather than a file. You can then use 600 grade to finish, it leaves an almost polished finish.

Gents, your both Scholars and Saints! ;) I've got that stuff in my garage so will take you up on your advice, again many thanks.

[Qwin]

What type of plastic?
A hard type like Acrylic or Polycarb, or something softer like Nylon or Polyprop?
Generally a fine file generates too much heat on the plastics surface and can clog, a sharp coarser file works better, especially on the softer types.
Finishing with wet/dry if a smoother finish is required.

[Wakefield Turntables]

What type of plastic?
A hard type like Acrylic or Polycarb, or something softer like Nylon or Polyprop?
Generally a fine file generates too much heat on the plastics surface and can clog, a sharp coarser file works better, especially on the softer types.
Finishing with wet/dry if a smoother finish is required.

Blimey, this was for the G99 restoration project. This one is now "to-bed" so to speak and I'm on with the next one. Thanks for the advice anyway Ken.