How to Bevel Polycarbonate Glasses

A bevel is the edge of a lens that fits into and holds the lens into an eyeglass frame. Opticians use a special tool called a hand stone to bevel lenses. Using a hand stone requires training and practice according to Eyecare Business Magazine. Opticians bevel polycarbonate lenses with the same technique as other types of lenses, but there are a few differences and things to keep in mind.

Things You'll Need

• Hand stone
• small wire brush
• tooth brush

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Instructions

Beveling Polycarbonate

• 1

  Clean off any debris around the beveling wheel. Most hand stones have one or two rotating diamond wheels. Use a small wire brush or toothbrush to clean in and around the wheels.

• 2

  Turn on the handstone. Test the wheel to make sure it is turning properly. Select the proper dial setting for polycarbonate, usually "soft," "fragile" or "polycarbonate."

• 3

  Do not turn on the water. Opticians usually finish polycarbonate lenses dry, not wet like other lenses. Turning on the water will cause the material to gunk up in the wheel and will flaw the process. The exception to this rule is if you are using a special machine with a wet-dry cycle designed especially for polycarbonate lenses. If you are unsure, check the manual of the machine.

• 4

  As the wheel turns, lay the edge of the lens against the the spinning wheel at the proper angle, usually about 45 degrees. Carefully rotate the lens in your hand as it comes into contact with the spinning wheel, creating the size and shape of bevel you need. Refine the shape as you rotate the lens. Occasionally blow off any polycarbonate dust that accumulates on the lens as you work.