Advanced Technology ClearCore - Manual (Page 2)

ATI-Clearcore Fabrication Manual Revision 0 Effective Date: 11/16/05
Page 2
forming is necessary to prevent stress. Parts not cooled properly may have a tendency to
warp. Bubbles or blisters are a sign of excessive heat, moisture in the sheet, or Uneven
heating. Bumps are caused by air trapped between the form and the material.
Edge Polishing
It is possible to polish out the edges with the same techniques used to fabricate acrylic.
Flame polishing, however, is not recommended. Rounding of corners or smoothing out
irregular cuts can be done with medium metal files. Edges should be well machined
sanded or hand scraped using a stationary polishing head 8-14 inch in diameter wheel
with 2-3 inch width of muslin. 1
st
buff using a medium coarse buffing compound, then
use rouge as a finishing compound. Products such as 3M Finesse it
tm
and Novus plastic
polish are suitable.
Surface Polishing
It is possible to remove scratching from the surface using the same methods used for
acrylic fabrication. 1
st
use the same technique mentioned for edge polishing. If the
scratches are too deep for that type then you can use water with fine grit sandpaper (240-
320 grit) and then use 400 grit as a 2
nd
step and then use 500 grit as a final step. You need
plenty of water for this procedure. Products such as 3M Finesse it
tm
and Novus plastic
polish are suitable, follow products application recommendations.
Laminating
It is possible to laminate Clear Core
tm
to typical substrates used for High Pressure
Laminates. Gypsum board, paperboards, and concrete are NOT recommended.
Typically MDF, Particleboard, Plywood, Hardboard are suitable materials. Clear Core
tm
has been tested using DAP / Weldwood non flammable (Neoprene Rubber Formula) with
good results. Neither flammable solvent, nor gel based contact cements are
recommended, and should be considered only after the customer has done sufficient
testing to assure suitability to their application. Extra care must be taken to insure that all
solvents or water have been dried according to manufacturer’s recommendations prior to
joining. Spraying produces the best glue line and is recommended. Cold Press adhesives
suitable for high-pressure laminates can also be used. Counter balancing of the core
material similar to high-pressure laminates (HPL’s) is necessary to prevent warping of
the laminated sheet. Use the same methods and counterbalance material used with HPL’s
for good results. For optimal results, counter balance with the same thickness acrylic
sheet as Clearcore
tm
.
Important Notice. Many items have protective film on the BOTTOM and TOP of the
sheet to protect against scratching during handling and shipping.