Bending acrylic pipe - an artform that has been developed and studied for centuries... don't give up yet.
Some ideas...
You said electric stove... I don't imagine that working too well. I think you need to buy a gas stove. Saves electricity too!
The key to success is the part that you stick in there. I used something called Fuel Line, I think 3/8" (that's ID), I think because I rubbed off the letters so I can't tell for sure. It's available in hardware store, made out of thick rubber, and it doesn't flatten when you bend it.
The next thing is to find the right degree of viscosity when heating up the acrylic. You want to heat an area, not a spot, for a smooth radius.
Finally, I used a 3/4" plastic elbow to bend the acrylic around... I guess you need something to create a round shape, you can't just bend it in the air.
Good luck!