using a torch to heat vinyl

[lunagirl]

I am going to be installing commercial vinyl wallcovering on 27 columns and upon researching how to make achieving tight bends around corners easier, I have learned that heating the material w/ a propane torch makes the job alot easier. But I am concerned about causing discoloration on the wallcovering. Does anyone have some insight on this matter? Thanks

[IamVince]

I would use a heat gun before a torch.

[lunagirl]

Thank you but apparently using a torch is much quicker, which I need.

[Woodshed]

You don't get it very hot, just warm enough to make the bend. If you have some scrap practice on it and you will do OK. I have even used the electric burner on electric stove to warm thick tiile to be able to make it easier to mark and cut.

[lunagirl]

Thank you Woodshed!! :)

[usmcpop]

I've used a heat gun to heat and bend 1/4" thick acrylic sheet. If you're not careful, it'll bubble and boil on you. They are HOT! Easy does it. :eek:

[Knowledgeworker]

I have used both, but had better luck with the heat gun. I had a tendency to overheat with the propane. My experience was for personal use, where production was not a consideration.

Good luck.

Jim

[hankj]

Lunagirl,

Don't confuse heat gun and hair dryer! My Milwaukee heat gun will shrink a 3" tube in seconds. It's plenty hot with the added benefit of no open flame.

But, a propane torch with a flame spreader would certainly be efficient.

Whichever way you go, let us know how it works out for you.

Thanks,

Hank

[whateg0]

We use heat guns at work to de-solder fine-pitch ICs at work. They get plenty hot! I've used my Milwaukee heat gun to bend 3/16" acrylic with no problem. But you still have to be careful. I've used a butane torch to do it, too. Given a choice, I'd use the heat gun. If a torch does have an advantage, it's that you can see a flame and judge your distance by it. Either one will cause the material to bubble if you get it too hot. I know it's not the same, but I put vinyl for upholstery in the dryer on a low setting for a few minutes. When I take it out, it stretches and forms very easily.

Dave

[Rocky D]

Here, the skill is knowing when to quit. :eek:

[usmcpop]

As kids, we had all kinds of fun with old plastic bottles like detergent bottles and such. Just put 'em on a stick, light them, and let them drip. The VEEP-VEEP-VEEP sound as they fell through the air was wicked! So was the pain when the melted plastic hit your skin. MY big bro still has a welt. Beware of hot plastic!