How Do You Reshape a Thermoplastic

These thermoplastics can all be shaped and formed by immersing in hot water (160°-180°) until soft and pliable, then applying to a mold or form. Dry heat (usually in the form of a heatgun or hair dryer) can also be used for the initial forming or later to build up areas or to reshape.

Can you reshape thermosetting plastic?

The cross-linking process eliminates the risk of the product remelting when heat is applied, making thermosets ideal for high-heat applications such as electronics and appliances. Due to all these reasons Thermosetting polymers cannot be reshaped and reused.

How do you soften thermoplastics?

Water should be heated to a temperature of at least 60ºC; we found that a temperature between 80ºC and 85ºC softens the thermoplastic sufficiently and allows extra time for molding before reheating is needed.