I want to extend the sockets and harps above the turned bodies of table lamps. 12 in. lengths of white plastc tubing are available for this in a lamp parts store, but I can buy 8 ft. of pvc pipe much cheaper. Can I remove the printing on sch. 40 pvc without spoiling the glossy finish? TIA.
Turn to Safety, Arch Fortiter
I worked in a PVC plant for about 3 years. The ink used there was permanent, permanent in that solvent would take it off but also the glossy finish you find alluring. Hmm, perhaps sanding followed by a gentle and well-monitored Beale buffing?
Lacquer thinner works for me.
Can I
Tried removal on a couple of scrap pieces of different brands. With one brand, alcohol cleaned it right off, and on the rest it did little good. YMMV Old Chief Lynn
I use acetone. Lacquer thinner, as mentioned, normally contains MEK, the stuff used to cement the pipe.
Does take a bit of the gloss off, but not so bad that wax can't recover a shine.
Not sure I'd power buff, either. A couple seconds of neglect would flow the stuff beyond recovery.
Try the Krylon Fusion paint. It is designed to stick to plastic. Just paint over it. You can change colors that way too.
-- Rusty Myers Austin, TX
Test it first. Many inks are fugitive. Meaning, they will bleed through. Dan
I agree. I have been using this stuff for a while, and it is great. It even stick to polished aluminum with proper prep.
Robert
PVC pipe cleaner will remove it (step 1 in the 3 step "through" plastic pipe joint - cleaner, then primer, then glue). Might also muck up the finish a little - it's not supposed to attack the pipe (the primer does that), but does seem to affect it somewhat. Well-ventilated area (the stuff is all solvent). Perhaps that followed by the plastic paint? Or just buff up the pipe on your Beall system to get the shine back?
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