Acrylic
Plexiglas®, Lucite®, Chemcast®, Optix®, and Perspex®
Polymethylmethacrylate: a thermoplastic material compound of polymers of methyl methacrylate. Acrylic is a transparent solid with exceptional optical properties and good resistance to water. Primary applications for acrylic sheet include fabrication, picture framing, boat windows, skylights, displays, signage, lighting and point of purchase displays. The molecular structure of acrylic provides increased protection from sunlight’s ultraviolet rays; the material is noted for outdoor durability and colorfastness. Special U.V. stabilization protects the sheet from yellowing. Acrylic sheet is marketed under trade names such as Plexiglas®, Lucite®, Chemcast®, Optix®, and Perspex®.
.125” general purpose acrylic sheet is approximately 2 to 3 times more impact resistant than double strength window glass, and about 4 to 5 times more impact resistant than wire glass or other glasses. .250” general purpose acrylic sheet is approximately 9 to 10 times more resistant than wire glass or other glasses.
You can cut acrylic sheet by scribing and breaking, by sawing or routing with power equipment, or by using a laser cutter. Scribing works best for straight cuts in thin sheet – 0.236” or less. Power equipment includes circular (table, radial or panel), scroll, saber, band, veneer and hole saws and routers. For sawing operations, keep masking intact to protect the acrylic sheet surfaces and to provide lubrication. Remember that acrylic sheet is a combustible thermoplastic material.
