I have read the old threads in the forum and just wondered if anyone had come up with a new method to minimize the dust and hazing when cutting black styrene (HIPS) in .020" and .040". I cut some fairly large pieces in fairly large quantities so I would like to avoid the expense of release paper if possible
I have tried high speed with lowest power required to cut. Both full air assist and down to almost no air assist. I realize the underside is probably always going to have marks due to the trapped heat/gasses but it would be great if the top side could come out unblemished. At this point, it seems I am getting some heat damage (glossing and A in the pictures below) plus hazing clouds (B in the pictures below). Masking tape worked but is a real hassle even with the 2-3 inch wide version. Wetted newspaper worked and had faster cleanup but application was slow and subject to bubbles (fast "cleanup" though).
If release paper is the best option, I would appreciate a recommendation. Will a low tack version work with styrene? It has got to reliably form a seal without bubbles.
Thanks in advance.
At "A", the matte finish has been turned to gloss. At "B", there is lots of haze.
Styrene Glossing and Hazing 1.JPG
Same test piece but at a different light angle
Styrene Glossing and Hazing 2.JPG
This white piece of paper was used as a mask. You can see the black soot that is being fuzed to the styrene during cutting. Acetone and MEK won't wipe it off.
Styrene Glossing and Hazing 3.JPG