Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

[boatwaters]

I have a low profile lewmar hatch #2678365 made of acrylic. I'm looking to install a solar powered vent on it but to do so I would have to use a hole saw and drill some attaching screws. Is drill through acrylic something that can be done? Putting the vent anywhere else isn't an option unfortunately.

 

[robert graham]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

You can drill it, but go very slowly so it don't get hot and melt the plastic and gum it up. Take your time. good Luck!

 

[boatwaters]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

thanks

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

ditto. go slow and a bit of WD-40, or similar product will also help lube things up a bit and reduce friction and heat. I think we'd love to see a before and after pic, if at all possible. I'm curious to see how it turns out.

****Measure twice, cut once*****

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

There are drill bits specially designed for Plexi/Acrylic ( very pointy ends ).

As far as the larger hole .. I would recommend you remove the hatch and take it to your local Plastics dealer. Should only cost you like 5-10 bucks for a large hole to get cut out.

Yes you can sandwich the hatch and hole saw it..but its not worth the risk if you have not done this before IMHO..

YD.

 

[boatwaters]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

thanks for all the replys, I'll post a pic. I'll try and do it myself so that I know for the future. I'll just go very slow and use some wd-40.

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

There are drill bits specially designed for Plexi/Acrylic ( very pointy ends ).

Might want to check into plexiBits m8 .. just saying ..

YD.

 

[dvx216]

Re: Drill through an acrylic deck hatch

A unibit works the best