Omar Khalid
Plastic frames often need adjustments to ensure a perfect fit. Before making adjustments, it is important to identify the type of plastic used in the frame. Ordinary Zyl frames can be heated using conventional heat sources, while Optyl frames require a higher temperature of 200 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. It is crucial to exercise caution when heating plastic frames, as excessive heat can cause damage or melting. Warm water, hair dryers, and hot air blowers are commonly used methods for applying heat. Some frame materials, such as stainless steel or plastic/acetate with embedded steel rods, are more adjustable than others like memory plastic and titanium. With proper care and technique, you can adjust your plastic frames for a comfortable fit.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to heat plastic frames | Before performing any adjustments |
| Types of plastic frames that can be heated | Ordinary zyl frames |
| Types of plastic frames that should not be heated | Carbon, polycarbonate, kevlar, and memory plastic frames |
| Heating methods | Salt pan, hot air blower, hot water, or a hair dryer |
| Heating temperature | 200 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit for Optyl frames |
| Risks | Heat can damage frames and frame finishes |
| Alternative methods | Bending with fingers, using warm water |
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What You'll Learn
Heat Optyl frames to 200-300°F to reshape them
Optyl frames are made from a thermosetting plastic with a 'memory effect', meaning they can return to their original shape after bending. This makes Optyl frames lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic. However, this unique property also requires special care during adjustments.
When heating Optyl frames, it is crucial to only heat the specific part of the frame that needs adjustment. The frame should be heated to a temperature between 200 and 300°F, which is high enough to make the Optyl pliable. Heating Optyl to this temperature range can be tricky, as it can easily toast other materials. It is important to note that underheating can cause Optyl frames to snap, while overheating can lead to warping.
There are two common methods for heating Optyl frames: using a "salt pan" with heated glass beads or employing a modern hot air blower. The traditional "salt pan" method involves placing the Optyl frame on a bed of heated glass beads, allowing experienced opticians to gauge the necessary heating duration intuitively. In contrast, the hot air blower is a more contemporary approach.
Once the Optyl frame reaches the desired temperature range of 200-300°F and becomes pliable, it can be carefully reshaped as needed. After making adjustments, the frame needs to be held in place while it cools down and sets into its new shape. It is important to avoid exposing adjusted Optyl frames to high temperatures, as this can cause them to revert to their original form.
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Use a salt pan or hot air blower to heat plastic frames
Heating plastic frames is necessary before performing any adjustments. However, it is important to note that not all plastic frames are suitable for heating, and some may be damaged by the application of heat. If you are unsure about a specific frame, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer for guidance.
One method of heating plastic frames is by using a salt pan, also known as a salt pan frame warmer. This method involves placing the frame in a pan filled with heated glass beads or salt, which can be adjusted to the desired temperature. The salt pan method has been traditionally preferred by older opticians, but it may not offer precise temperature control, potentially leading to overheating and damage to the frame. Non-iodized popcorn salt or finely blended regular non-iodized salt is recommended for this purpose.
Another option for heating plastic frames is by using a hot air blower, which is becoming increasingly popular among opticians. This method directs hot air through a vent onto the specific part of the frame that requires adjustment. Some hot air blowers offer adjustable temperature settings, allowing for more precise control to avoid melting the frame. They are particularly useful for certain plastic frame materials like optyl, polamides, and grilamides, which may be more sensitive to the rapid heat transfer of a salt pan.
Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages. The salt pan method provides even heating and is useful for spot heating and controlling the heat pulse. It is also easy to repair and takes up minimal space. On the other hand, hot air blowers offer instant heating, quiet operation, and do not require the cleanup associated with silicone beads. Ultimately, the choice between a salt pan and a hot air blower depends on personal preference, experience, and the specific requirements of the frame material.
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Avoid heating polycarbonate, kevlar, carbon, and memory plastic frames
When it comes to heating plastic frames, it is crucial to exercise caution and avoid certain types of materials that should not be heated. Here are some important guidelines to follow:
Polycarbonate Frames
Avoid using heat to adjust polycarbonate frames, especially those designed for sports or safety purposes. Polycarbonate frames cannot be safely modified with heat. Instead, if adjustments are needed, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer for specific instructions or explore alternative methods that do not involve heat.
Kevlar Frames
Kevlar frames are not suitable for adjustments using heat. Kevlar is a material known for its heat resistance and is commonly used in applications where high temperatures may be encountered. Therefore, attempting to adjust Kevlar frames with heat can be ineffective and potentially unsafe.
Carbon Frames
Carbon fibre frames are generally resistant to both hot and cold temperatures due to their construction with epoxy resin, a thermoset material. While carbon fibre can withstand very high temperatures, its ability to withstand heat is limited when used in an epoxy resin matrix. Exposing carbon frames to excessive heat, such as from a heat gun, may compromise the integrity of the epoxy resin and lead to permanent damage.
Memory Plastic Frames
Memory plastic, also known as Optyl, requires a specific heating process for adjustments. To restore it to its original shape, it needs to be heated to a precise temperature range of 200 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, and any adjustments must be held in place until it cools down. Applying heat outside this temperature range or without proper control can result in undesirable changes to the frame's shape.
In summary, it is essential to identify the frame material before applying any heat. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations and exercise caution when adjusting frames made of polycarbonate, Kevlar, carbon, and memory plastic to avoid irreversible damage.
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Soak plastic frames in warm water before adjusting them
If you need to adjust a pair of plastic glasses frames, it's important to be cautious. Some frame materials, like stainless steel or plastic/acetate arms with embedded stainless steel rods, are readily adjustable. Other materials, like titanium, memory titanium, memory plastic, and aluminum alloy, are harder to adjust. If you're uncertain about your frame material, check the details tab for the specific frame SKU. You can also contact the manufacturer and ask about adjustment procedures.
If you have a plastic frame, you will likely need to heat it before performing any adjustments. There are two types of heating elements that can be used: the "salt pan," which contains heated glass beads, and the hot air blower. The older method is the glass bead pan, while the hot air blower is more modern. The frame should be heated until softening or movement is felt, and then held in place until it cools.
However, it's important to note that heat can easily damage frames and frame finishes. Some older materials will react in odd ways when exposed to heat. As such, it's recommended to soak plastic frames in warm water for 30-60 seconds before adjusting them. This can help make the plastic more pliable without risking damage from excessive heat.
After soaking the frame ends in warm water, you can then gently bend the temple arms down, either at the hinge or behind your ear. Be sure to preserve the natural curve behind your ear and avoid overcorrection. If the frame still feels too stiff, you can try soaking it in warm water for a little longer before adjusting.
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Use a hairdryer to heat the arms of plastic glasses frames
Most plastic frames will need to be heated before adjustments can be made. If you are unsure about the type of frame you have, it is recommended to call the manufacturer and ask about adjustment procedures before heating it. Some older materials will react oddly when exposed to heat.
If your glasses are too loose or too tight, you can use a hairdryer to gently heat them up and then tighten or loosen them to achieve a better fit. This method is only recommended for plastic-based frames. Opticians use heat to warm the plastic so they can shape it as needed, but caution must be exercised as too much heat can damage the glasses, especially the anti-reflective coatings on the lenses.
To use a hairdryer to heat the arms of plastic glasses frames, direct the hairdryer at the arms and gently warm them up. Be careful not to overheat the frames as this can cause damage. Once the plastic is softened, you can adjust the arms to your desired position. Hold the arms in place until they cool down and harden, securing the new shape.
Alternatively, you can immerse the temple ends of your glasses in warm water for 30-60 seconds before making adjustments. This method is less likely to damage the frames but may not be as effective as using a hairdryer.
It is important to note that some frame materials, such as memory plastic, titanium, and aluminum alloy, are challenging to adjust. Stainless steel or plastic/acetate temple arms with embedded stainless steel rods are more adjustable. Always be cautious when applying heat to any glasses frame, as it can be easy to accidentally damage the frame or its finish.
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Frequently asked questions
Heating up plastic frames makes the plastic soft and pliable, allowing for adjustments to be made.
Two types of heating elements can be used: the "salt pan," which contains heated glass beads, and the hot air blower. The hot air blower is similar to a hairdryer but hotter.
Optyl frames should be heated to 200-300 degrees Fahrenheit. For other types of plastic, take care not to underheat or overheat. Not enough heat and the plastic will crack, too much heat and it will melt.
Some alternative methods include immersing the frames in warm water, using a kettle to heat up water and then dipping the frames in, or rubbing the frames vigorously between your fingers to generate heat.
