10 Questions You Should to Know about Custom Acrylic Sheet Manufacturer

Acrylic sheets are some of the most commonly used plastic materials used in commercial, industrial, and residential construction projects. Often used as a strong replacement for glass, acrylic sheets can be transparent or opaque and they come in a variety of custom colours to match the aesthetic of the structure to which they’re being applied. They work as a solid alternative to glass—which is heavy, expensive, and extremely fragile.

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Contrary to glass, acrylic sheets are completely lightweight, affordable, and versatile. They can be cut, resized, or reshaped on the spot to fit specific structural parameters and dimensions whereas glass would need to be transported back and forth on and off the jobsite to make modifications. Naturally, people have a lot of questions for acrylic sheet suppliers in terms of how well their products work, cost, and whether they hold up for long periods of time. We have the answers.

1. What Is Acrylic Used for?

Applications for acrylic sheets can vary from home improvement to sporting equipment, aquariums, military technology, sculptures, fluorescent light fixtures, and so much more. Acrylic sheets are so durable and versatile that they serve a multitude of purposes depending on the specific application in question. When it comes to construction, for instance, acrylic sheets can replace glass windows and skylights. They’re easier and more lightweight to transport and install. Plus, acrylic sheets are not fragile like glass and won’t shatter if dropped. They’re completely scratch-, corrosion-, and UV-resistant.

2. Are Acrylic Sheets Expensive?

Technically, acrylic sheets have a higher upfront cost than traditional glass sheets would. But, it’s still a worthwhile alternative for a number of reasons. As mentioned, acrylic is lightweight, durable, and a lot easier to install than glass. Acrylic and glass also share a lot of similar qualities in the sense that they’re both transparent and they both let in a lot of natural lighting. The reason acrylic costs more is because it’s a lot stronger and more weather-, scratch-, and impact-resistant than glass. Plus, acrylic is likely to last longer than glass and can endure exposure to all kinds of weather and environmental elements without showing signs of degradation, so you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.

3. Is Acrylic Plexiglas Durable?

Yes, acrylic Plexiglas is incredibly durable, especially compared to glass. It’s also about 50% lighter in weight than glass, which is another reason why it’s the more preferable choice for various applications. Acrylic Plexiglas can be manufactured using a cast or extruded method (free-form). Either way, it’s incredibly durable and the chemical compounds (polymethyl methacrylate) used in the manufacturing process make it shatterproof as well as temperature-, weather-, and impact-resistant. Even if it does sustain damages or breaks, unlike glass, acrylic Plexiglas pieces would have dull edges, and this minimizes the risk of injury. This is an important safety feature that makes acrylic the perfect material for a variety of applications that require human contact and use.

4. What’s the Difference between Acrylic and Plastic?

Contrary to what a lot of people think, acrylic isn’t an alternative to plastic. Actually, it’s a type of plastic material. The main difference is that acrylic is an industrial-grade thermoplastic that’s typically formulated for applications that require the utmost durability, temperature, and impact-resistance. For instance, if you’ve ever watched a hockey game and you see the players body-checking one another into the baseboards, then you’ve seen acrylic plastic in action. The baseboards, which are made of acrylic sheets, are designed to be able to take a hit without cracking in freezing conditions.

5. Is Acrylic Better Than Glass?

Acrylic is the superior alternative material to glass for a number of reasons. As mentioned, acrylic is more durable while weighing half as much as its glass counterparts. This makes for seamless transportation and installation. Accidents and human errors can happen on construction sites. While they’re not ideal occurrences, having versatile materials on hand makes it a lot easier to fix mistakes. If glass gets damaged, it needs to be replaced and this can cause a lot of delays in an industry where time is money. Acrylic is a lot less likely to get damaged. Even if damages do occur, acrylic can be cut down to size and reshaped onsite to make it more suitable for the project.

6. Is Acrylic Stronger Than Plastic?

Acrylic is a type of plastic. In fact, it’s one of the most uniquely durable and versatile types of plastic material currently on the market, which is why it’s used for such a wide range of applications.

7. Is Acrylic Plastic Toxic?

While the final product itself isn’t toxic for human contact and use, the manufacturing process of acrylic plastic can admittedly be harmful to the environment and workers in the facility. Factory workers must wear protective gear to avoid coming into direct contact with acrylic plastic in its liquid form as it can release toxic fumes into the atmosphere. Still, this is nothing compared to the very toxic fumes released by other similar commercial and industrial building materials. Compared to other materials on the market, acrylic actually has a relatively low fume output and in its final form, it’s classified as a non-hazardous material by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

8. Does Acrylic Get Discoloured After Too Much Sun Exposure?

Discolouration isn’t a concern for acrylic plastic because it’s formulated to withstand extensive sun and UV ray exposure. Acrylic plastic is derived from natural gasses, which makes it UV-resistant. This quality is the main reason why acrylic plastic is typically used for skylights, greenhouses, shed windows, and any other structures that need to sustain long-term sun exposure.

9. Is Clear Acrylic Weather-Resistant?

Clear acrylic sheets are incredibly weather-resistant. Like their colour counterparts, there’s absolutely no risk of discolouration due to extensive sun and UV ray exposure. These panels have a general lifespan of about 10+ years and can withstand all kinds of weather conditions including snow storms, heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and more.

10. How Many Different Types of Acrylic Sheets Are There?

There are three types of acrylic sheets currently available on the market:

• Extruded acrylic sheets
• Cell cast acrylic sheets
• Continuous cast acrylic sheets

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Whether you’re a professional manufacturer or a DIY enthusiast exploring new creative avenues, acrylic plastic is an undeniably valuable material. Its versatility, clarity, and ease of use make it suitable for a wide range of projects, from sleek signage to intricate artwork. In this guide, we’ll delve into essential     acrylic plastic safety tips to equip you with the knowledge and precautions necessary to work with this material.

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Can Working with Acrylic Be Harmful?

Acrylic plastic, like many materials, has the potential to be harmful if not handled appropriately and with care. Though non-toxic at room temperature, acrylic transitions from a solid to a gaseous state when it reaches its melting point of 130-140°C. So, when engraving, cutting, or otherwise manipulating acrylic via lasers and other heat sources, it’s important to be cautious of the vapor, dust, and fumes that are emitted in the process. Here are some acrylic plastic safety tips to take into consideration in an effort to mitigate risk.

 1. Wear Proper PPE

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when working with acrylic. Wearing safety goggles protects your eyes from dust and flying debris, and slipping on gloves shields your hands from cuts and abrasions. Additionally, consider wearing a mask to prevent inhalation of fine acrylic particles and toxic gasses. A face shield covers a larger surface area and can be layered over both goggles and a mask to create a safe barrier.

2. Ensure Your Area is Well-Ventilated

Adequate ventilation is crucial when working with acrylic. Whether cutting, sanding, or heating the material, ensure that your workspace allows plenty of airflow to prevent the buildup of fumes and dust. Consider working outdoors or using a ventilation or fume-extraction system to maintain a healthy work environment. Make sure      the doors and windows are never shut, even in the winter, and avoid using the air conditioner.

3. Carry & Handle with Care

Acrylic may be durable, but it can still be fragile. Handle sheets and pieces with care to avoid chipping, cracking, or breaking. When transporting acrylic, use proper supports and padding to prevent damage during transit.

4. Make Sure You’re Using the Right Tools

Using the correct tools can make a significant difference in safety and efficiency when working with acrylic. Opt for tools specifically designed for acrylic fabrication, such as acrylic scoring knives, circular saws with carbide-tipped blades, and slow-speed      drill bits that cut holes without cracking or melting the material. Avoid using tools intended for other materials, as they may cause damage or produce inferior results.

5. Store & Maintain Properly

Proper storage and maintenance are essential for prolonging the lifespan of your acrylic materials. Store sheets vertically to prevent warping and distortion, and avoid exposing acrylic to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight for extended periods. Regularly clean acrylic surfaces with mild soap and water to remove dust, dirt, and debris.

6. Dispose of Waste Properly

Proper disposal of acrylic waste is essential for environmental safety. Dispose of scraps, offcuts, and unused materials in accordance with local regulations. Consider recycling acrylic waste whenever possible to reduce environmental impact.

7. Keep Your Work Area Clean and Clutter-Free

Maintaining a clean and clutter-free work area is an important factor of acrylic plastic safety. Clearing away debris, scraps, and unused tools helps to prevent tripping hazards and reduces the risk of accidents. Keeping surfaces clean and organized also promotes better visibility and control, allowing you to focus on your work and minimize the likelihood of mishaps.

8. Monitor Temperature During Heating

When heating acrylic for bending or shaping, it’s crucial to monitor the temperature carefully to avoid overheating. Excessive heat can cause the acrylic to soften too much, leading to deformation or bubbling. Use a thermometer to gauge the temperature and apply heat evenly to prevent localized overheating.

9. Avoid Excessive Pressure When Polishing

When polishing acrylic surfaces, apply gentle pressure to avoid causing scratches or distortion. Excessive pressure can lead to uneven polishing and damage to the material’s clarity. Instead, use light, circular motions with a soft cloth or polishing pad to achieve a smooth finish without compromising the integrity of the acrylic.

10. Be Mindful of Static Electricity

Acrylic is prone to static electricity buildup, which can attract dust and debris during handling and fabrication. To minimize static electricity, work in a low-humidity environment and use anti-static products or treatments on surfaces and tools. Additionally, periodically discharge static electricity by grounding yourself or using an ionizer to prevent interference with your work and maintain cleanliness.

Discover Your Acrylic Options with Acme Plastics

Ready to embark on your next acrylic project? Explore a wide range of acrylic options at Acme Plastics. Whether you’re looking for clear sheets for displays and signage or colored acrylic for creative projects, Acme has you covered. With high-quality materials and expert advice, Acme makes it easy to bring your ideas to life safely and effectively.

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