Corian advice and/or tips?

[frogjunk]

I recently acquired a few corian blanks. This is new territory for me, and I'm wondering if any of you have any helpful tips.

 

[Paul in OKC]

Turns easy and finishes nicely. For me no issues, just drill slowly backing out often, which I normally do anyway, so have fun!

 

[Bryguy]

I have turned loads of Corian. You will find it very easy to work with. I use carbide tools. Drilling can be an issue, but drill slow and reverse out a lot and you should be OK.

 

[randyrls]

Doug; If your blank is square, remove the corners on a power sander. Corian is very strong and prone to breaks when pressing in fittings. I expand the ends of the brass tube. Take a rod just smaller than the brass tube and rotate in a a circular motion to expand the brass tube so the fittings will slide in. You may have to add a layer of tape to the bushings. When installing fittings I put a small drop of loctite on the inside of the tube and push fitting in and twist it around several times. It is important to put the glue on the tube and NOT the fitting because the glue will "smoosh" out onto the fitting and ruin the fitting.

 

[randyrls]

Doug; Added; Many acrylics tend to "blow-out" when the drill bit breaks thru the far end of the blank. Use the cut long, drill short, cut off end method to prevent this.

 

[wouldentu2?]

I turn with HSS tools, only sand wet at least to 1500, polish with Novus 3 and then 2. Buff if you have that equipment.

Yes it dulls that sharp edge faster but it also turns well with tools less than sharp.

 

[qquake]

Most Corian that I've seen is only 1/2" thick (unless something has changed), so you may be limited to slim style kits.

 

[walshjp17]

Most Corian that I've seen is only 1/2" thick (unless something has changed), so you may be limited to slim style kits.

You can glue to pieces together to make larger pens. I have used both epoxy and thick CA with good results.

 

[frogjunk]

Thanks, everybody for your helpful words and sage advice! I feel a lot more confident with this new material now.

 

[frogjunk]

With some trepidation, and following your advice and tips, I have completed my first corian pen. Turned without difficulty and finished beautifully. Thanks for your help! (Those are not scratches, by the way. Reflections from my shop light.)