Yes, "fire polishing" does work on Acrylic but is next to impossiable to do
with Polycarbonate. I have found that a small diameter flame is better than
a larger diameter flame. You do have to be carful not to get the material
very hot. It will burn with a pale blue flame (guess how I know) and you can
get "gas pits" that will ruin the finish. These will require removing about
1/32" or more before you can try finishing the edge again. You can get
simular results with a polishing wheel on either material. Regardless of
which polishing method you use you should wet sand the edges with 220 grit
emory paper followed with 400 grit emory until you get a very smooth surface.
Do all of the edges not just the ones that will show. This will help extend
the life of your side curtain. Once you have done a set you might decide
that it is so easy and cheap you are not concerned with their life time.
Bob (and Annice)
In a message dated 10/3/99 4:10:21 PM, wsthompson@thicko.com writes:
<< After the new curtains are cut to fit, you can get a great finished look to
the edges by lightly sanding them smooth, then carefully running a propane
torch across the edge. This will restore the translucency to the edge, and
give it a very 'finished" look.
Make sure you practice on a scrap piece, as there's a knack to getting the
edge just warm enough without melting it.
WST >>
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