Acrylic Material

Cast Acrylic vs. Extruded Acrylic


Cast Acrylic

Cast Acrylic is a form of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). It is formed by casting the monomermethyl methacrylate, mixed with initiators and possibly other additives into a form or mold. Cast acrylic is a type of acrylic material that is made by casting a liquid acrylic mixture into a mold. This method allows for a high level of precision and detail, and it produces a material that is crystal clear and has a high degree of optical clarity. Cast acrylic is also known for its superior strength and durability, making it a popular choice for applications that require these properties.

It has better thermal stability, higher resistance to crazing (when a network of very small cracks form) when exposed to solvents, wider thermoforming range than extruded acrylic. Cast acrylic has a better ability to be reworked hot and it is known for its superior surface finish and optical properties. Also cast acrylic is more scratch resistant than extruded acrylic.

Cast acrylic is also preferred over extruded in applications that require machining's, such as turning on Engine Lathe or milling/drilling.

One of the key advantages of cast acrylic is its clarity and transparency. It is a highly transparent material that is often used as a substitute for glass in a variety of applications. It is also resistant to UV light and weathering, which makes it a durable choice for outdoor applications.

In addition to its visual properties, cast acrylic also has a number of practical benefits. It is a strong and durable material that is resistant to impact and wear. It is also a lightweight material, which makes it easy to handle and install.

Cast acrylic is widely used in a variety of applications, including displays, signage, windows, skylights, and more. It is a popular choice for applications that require a high level of precision, clarity, and durability. It is also widely used in the fabrication of custom products, as it can be easily cut, drilled, and shaped to fit a variety of needs.

Extruded Acrylic, with far less thermal stability, tends to melt and clog cutting tools. Even with slow speeds and lots of coolants, extruded acrylic does not produce the surface finish and tight tolerances achievable with cast acrylic. 

Advantages of Acrylic: Excellent optical clarity & transparency Highly resistant to variations in temperature Up to 17 times the impact resistance of ordinary glass Half the weight of glass and ideal for precision machining Highly resistant to many different chemicals Acrylic (PMMA*) has certain properties making it an ideal material for use in a wide range of applications, including medical, life sciences and food/beverage testing. 

  • PMMA – PolyMethyl MethAcrylate. Crylux, Plexiglas, Acrylite, Lucite, and Perspex are trade names for Acrylic.

This type of acrylic is often used for aquariums, awards, financial tombstones, trophies, corporate gifts, and other products that require shaping or machining. It tends to be more clear and made to a higher quality standard, but in doing so makes it more expensive than extruded acrylic.

To learn more visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cast_acrylic