Can a wood lathe be used on solid acrylic tubing?

Question

im wondering if a wood lathe (such as an older craftsman type) can be used to lathe a peice of solid acrylic ranging from 1/2" to 3" in size

Answer 1

if run at a slower speed

Answer 2

Yep.

Have turned various "plastics"  ( w/ old craftsman lathe).

Same basic  turning techniques except for slower speeds.

More scraping than shaving to avoid chattering.

Use a ball bearing dead center.

A cup center will just melt in.

Depending on piece , used drill chuck. faceplate, spur & s***w  live centers

Tools have to be sharp as always & turn as close as possible to final contour since you can do very little  "shape"sanding .

A few drops of water will help clear the cuts & if  finish sanding is needed ,you can use wet/dry paper.

Up the speed a little & buff w/ auto polishing compound & finish off w/ dry soft cloth.

Tip  I got for plexiglas was to "flame" lightly w/ a torch get a high shine.

Best regards

Answer 3

Yes - but on a slower speed.  And watch the heat being generated, if the cutting tool gets too hot it will melt the acrylic instead of cutting it - causing a not so nice look.