Folding PE parts-a dumb question (I hope not!)

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Techniques
1

I am still in the prosess of learning to use PE parts and my new “Bug” hold and fold. Some, (but not all) of the parts that need folding have groves where they need to be folded. Would I fold towards the lines or away? The part in question has no other detail to tip me off.

Thanks

2

Not every PE mfr does things the same way. In some case one way is correct in some it isn’t. Usually you want the “lines” hidden from view, sometimes a PE mfr will put additional detailing on the same surface. My rule of thumb, which ever way gives the correct appearance and the tightest tolerances. This again is one of those “experience” situations where the more you do it, it becomes second nature.

3

Yep, sometimes you have to look very closely. I have a PE set for a SdKfz. 222 type turret and it has what appears to be fine grooves where the piece is to be folded, but these are actually textured weld lines which are on the “outside”. The “inside” surface is devoid of any “fold lines”. I am still trying to work out the best way to approach this.

4

If there are no details on the piece, the bend is, almost always, towards the line.

-Fred

5

Ok, as I work with the parts now, I am finding that these do indeed fold towards the lines as they form a sort of hinge. I just did one that required no less than 7 folds! I just have to figure out a sequence that works as it was a very complicated 3-D part!