How to Curve a Plastic Hockey Blade
Curving a plastic hockey blade can significantly improve your stickhandling and shooting skills on the ice. Here are five facts to help you successfully curve your plastic hockey blade:
1. Choose the right type of plastic blade:
Different manufacturers produce plastic blades with varying degrees of rigidity. Some blades are designed specifically for curving, while others may not respond well to the process. It’s essential to choose a blade that will withstand the bending and maintain its performance.
2. Heat the blade before curving:
To make the plastic blade more pliable and easier to curve, heat it before the shaping process. Use a heat gun or immerse the plastic blade in boiling water for a few seconds (follow manufacturer guidelines) to soften the material.
3. Shape the desired curve:
Once your plastic blade is heated and softened, you can begin shaping the curve. Typically, players prefer a slight curve for better puck control. There are different methods to curve a blade, such as using a wooden mold, bending it around a round object, or slowly manually forming the curve with your hand.
4. Use clamps or weights for maintaining the curve:
To hold the shape of the curve while the blade cools down and hardens, use clamps or place weights on top of the blade. This step is crucial to ensure that the curve remains intact and the blade doesn’t revert to its original shape.
5. Let the blade cool and re-harden:
Once you have achieved the desired curve, let the plastic blade cool down and re-harden completely. This cooling process ensures that the blade retains the curved shape and becomes sturdy enough for regular use on the ice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. How much should I heat the plastic blade?
A1. The heating time depends on the manufacturer’s guidelines. However, it is usually around 15-30 seconds using a heat gun or a few seconds in boiling water.
Q2. Can I curve any type of plastic blade?
A2. While most plastic blades can be curved, it is recommended to use blades specifically designed for curving to achieve the best results.
Q3. What tools can I use to shape the curve?
A3. You can use a wooden mold, a round object such as a pipe or a dowel, or shape the curve manually using your hand and applying gentle pressure.
Q4. How long should I keep clamps or weights on the blade?
A4. It is advisable to keep clamps or weights on the blade for at least 30 minutes or refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure the curve sets properly.
Q5. Is it normal for the blade to be slightly flexible after curving?
A5. Yes, it is normal for the blade to have a slight degree of flexibility even after curving. However, it should not be overly flexible or bend easily.
Q6. Can I re-curve a plastic blade multiple times?
A6. Generally, plastic blades can be re-curved multiple times. However, excessive curving and heating could weaken the blade over time, affecting its performance and durability.
Q7. Can I curve a plastic blade to the same curve as a traditional wooden blade?
A7. Due to the differences in material characteristics, it might be challenging to achieve an identical curve. However, with practice and experimentation, you can get close to the desired curve.
BOTTOM LINE: Curving a plastic hockey blade can enhance your stickhandling and shooting abilities. Choose the appropriate plastic blade, heat it, shape the desired curve, use clamps or weights while cooling, and enjoy an improved on-ice performance!
