Acrylic is also know by the chemical name poly (methyl methacrylate). There are two basic types of acrylic: cast and extruded. Extruded acrylic is ideal for laser cutting because it forms a flame polished edge during the laser cutting process.
How can you tell the difference between cast and extruded acrylic?
Cast acrylic is more resistant to the same solvents. When laser cutting extruded acrylic , there will come a burr on one side of the part. On the cast acrylic there is almost no burrs. The edges on extruded acrylic parts can look a bit different depending on the direction of the acrylic extrusion.
Can acrylic plastic be lasered?
Both extruded and cast acrylic can be laser cut, however extruded acrylic can be left with a slight burr on the edge of the material after laser cutting whereas cast acrylic is left with an extremely smooth edge.
Is cast or extruded acrylic best for laser cutting?
Remember, cast acrylic is better for engraving, while extruded acrylic is better suited for laser cutting.
How thick of acrylic can a laser cutter cut?
As you increase in wattage, you will be able to increase the thickness you can work with. A 50 or 60-watt machine will allow you to cut through closer to 3/8" of acrylic, and a 75 or 120-watt system will allow you to cut closer to 1/2" or possibly 3/4" with two passes.
Is acrylic laser safe?
While many plastics are banned from laser cutting, acrylic is approved safe and works wonderfully under a laser.11 Jun 2018
Which plastics are safe to laser cut?
Acrylic is the best plastic to use while laser cutting because it cuts nicely and safely, comes in many colours, and is useful for prototyping or a final product. Most places that have laser cutters will use acrylic.12 Sept 2019
What is the difference between clear cast and extruded acrylic?
Available in a broad range of standard and custom colors for a variety of applications, cast acrylic is more pliable than extruded, less likely to bend, chip, or melt during milling. Because extruded material is limited in thickness, cast acrylic is a better option for larger structures, installations, etc.
What's the difference between extruded and cast plexiglass?
There are two types of acrylic materials based on the production process. They are cast acrylic and extruded acrylic. The main difference between cast and extruded acrylic is that cast acrylic is produced by mixing the acrylic liquid ingredients in molds whereas extruded acrylic is produced by an extrusion method.9 Jan 2018
Does cast acrylic scratch?
Also cast acrylic is more scratch resistant than extruded acrylic.