Plastics are thermoformable materials, meaning their shape can be altered in the presence of heat. When plastic is heated locally and linearly, it becomes very easy to create a fold at the desired angle. Once the plastic cools, it retains the given shape. This method is particularly suitable for creating precise angles in plastic, whether for manufacturing, design, or artistic applications. Some plastics respond better to heat than others. The most commonly used plastics for folding include acrylic (plexiglass) for exceptional transparency and clarity, ABS known for its robustness, PETG ideal for its flexibility and impact resistance, and polycarbonate (Lexan) which combines transparency with impact resistance.
The selection of plastics for folding depends on various factors, including the material's reaction to heat and the required strength. Commonly used plastics for folding include acrylic (plexiglass) which offers exceptional transparency and clarity, ABS known for its robustness, PETG ideal for its flexibility and impact resistance, and polycarbonate (Lexan) which combines transparency with impact resistance.
