[Milsurplus] Working Plexiglass

[KD7JYK DM09]

: I've never before worked with Plexiglass, nor do I know
: where to buy it, or if the supplier will cut it like the
: building material stores will do for lumber.
: Can someone advise me?

In Nevada, the big home improvements stores, Lowe's, Home Depot, Ace
Hardware et cetera
have it in the windows/screening department and will cut to size.

Also check out plastics and signage shops in the yellow pages, I get bits
and pieces from a small fraction of an inch to about a half inch.

I haven't used it often, but I cut it slowly on a table saw or with a
chop-saw with a fine toothed carbide blade.

I've used regular high-speed steel drill bits with 120º angle on the point
and slow RPMs on the drill, but it can want to bind, too much binding can
cause chips around the hole and shattering of the material at the worst.  I
have HEARD that there are special drill bits with a shallower point for
drilling plastics, I have not researched this.  When you drill, use light
pressure and feed slowly to prevent heat and grabbing.

I regret that I recently tossed about 20# of various sheets in various sizes
and thicknesses just last year, of course now I need a piece myself as well.

Kurt