Beginnersluck
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just wanted to know if anyone has experince molding/shaping/"welding" plastics and would it be possible to make my own plastic body...?
want to build plastic/fiberglass like body
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OzFab
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You need the right kind of plastic for this. Some plastics are easy to shape but not easy to weld; others are easy to weld but difficult to shape. Obviously, you need to find one that can do both. Do you have experience with plastic welding?
Fibreglass is lighter & easier to use (if you don't mind being itchy as he// for the next few days) but is usually based on a mould.
Having said that, it is possible (not easy, but possible) to create the desired shape without a mould & join several pieces together
You need the right kind of plastic for this. Some plastics are easy to shape but not easy to weld; others are easy to weld but difficult to shape. Obviously, you need to find one that can do both. Do you have experience with plastic welding?
Fibreglass is lighter & easier to use (if you don't mind being itchy as he// for the next few days) but is usually based on a mould.
Having said that, it is possible (not easy, but possible) to create the desired shape without a mould & join several pieces together
Beginnersluck
New member
No I don't have any plastic experience. Can you do a combo of easy shape and easy weld. I'll probably stay away from fiber glass,
OzFab
Well-known member
That's why I said "you need to find the right plastic".
Two things you can try:
1. contact local trade schools/colleges & ask about a course in plastic welding/moulding
2. contact local businesses & ask them as many questions as you can. Maybe (if you're available) ask if you can work with them for a day or two. Don't give up after the first call; some will be receptive, some won't
Two things you can try:
1. contact local trade schools/colleges & ask about a course in plastic welding/moulding
2. contact local businesses & ask them as many questions as you can. Maybe (if you're available) ask if you can work with them for a day or two. Don't give up after the first call; some will be receptive, some won't
souperman000
New member
I think you would probably need a vacuum former the form the right shape. Like Fabroman said, contact those places to see if they will let you use their equipment. The actual forming might take a few tries to get it just right.
OzFab
Well-known member
Not so much use thier equipment but watch them use it to get a bit of insight
souperman000
New member
agreed
Beginnersluck
New member
well thanks guys hopefully ill get some good work done learn some stuff and have a better go kart
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