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Tetra
Contour Light Guide Forming Instructions
®
Heating and Forming
For large bends, use either an industrial
oven or heating blanket. For small bends,
use a heat gun.
Bend Type
Planar
Inside Corner
Outside Corner
Option A: Large Bends
r
Preheat the heating equipment to
300°F (149°C). Heat light guides
approximately 6-15 minutes until
soft and pliable. Bend the light
guide over a printed pattern, routed
template, or use free-forming. A
clean flat insulated surface (wood
or laminated countertop) will help
to prevent twisting or bowing. See
the chart above for minimum bend
radius guidelines.
Allow the light guide to cool by natural convection or lightly forced cool air (i.e. fan). Remove the Bend-Aids for
reuse. In order to remove any minor surface flaws, perform a light sanding using 400 grit sandpaper. Flared or
deformed ends can be trimmed. The light guide is now ready for light engine installation.
NOTE: DO NOT remove the Bend-Aids until the light guide has completely cooled.
NOTE: DO NOT subject heated light guide to freezing or quenching in water.
Minimum Inside
Bend Radius (r)
0.75 in. (19mm)
1 in. (25mm)
1½ in. (38mm)
Option B: Small Bends
Part 1: Move the section back and
forth while rotating about the
diameter until it is soft and pliable.
Gently bend to the desired angle.
It is recommended to use a heat-
deflecting shield to distribute
the heat evenly. Avoid localized
overheating that may result in
distortion or damage (i.e. bubbling)
of the light guide.
CAUTION
Avoid direct contact between hot materials and exposed skin
or combustibles. Use heat resistant gloves while heating and/
or handling any hot materials.
CAUTION
DO NOT use an open flame to heat the light guide.
Heat gun
Part 2: The workable forming time
is about 2–3 minutes. The light
guide must remain in the desired
position until completely cooled. See
the chart above for minimum bend
radius guidelines.
2
Installation Guide
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