What is Cast Acrylic?

Cast acrylic, also known as cast plexiglass, is one of the most durable and versatile plastic sheet materials available—offering exceptional clarity and strength for a wide range of applications.It is manufactured using the casting method, where methyl methacrylate monomer and other binding agents are poured in liquid form between two glass molds. This process allows for sheet thicknesses ranging from 1.00 mm to 40.00 mm.Cast acrylic is known for its superior resistance compared to glass and is widely used in engineering, architecture, design, and display systems. While it offers many advantages over other types of plastic sheets—such as better optical clarity, chemical resistance, and surface hardness—it also comes with some trade-offs depending on the application.

  • Advantages of Cast Acrylic

    Superior Optical Clarity: Offers excellent light transmission, making it ideal for display cases, signage, and optical applications.

    High Surface Hardness: More scratch-resistant than extruded acrylic and other plastic sheets.

    Greater Thickness Options: Available in a wider range of thicknesses (1.00 mm to 40.00 mm).

    Easy to Machine and Fabricate: Can be cut, drilled, polished, and thermoformed with high precision.

    Excellent Chemical Resistance: Resists many acids and cleaning agents, making it suitable for industrial use.

    Better UV Stability: Less likely to yellow or degrade over time with sunlight exposure.

    Durability: Significantly stronger and more impact-resistant than glass.

  • Disadvantages of Cast Acrylic

    Higher Cost: Generally more expensive than extruded acrylic due to the production process.

    Thickness Tolerance: Slight variations in thickness are more common due to the casting method.

    More Brittle Than Polycarbonate: While durable, it’s not as impact-resistant as polycarbonate in extreme conditions.

    Longer Lead Times: Custom production may require additional processing time compared to ready-made sheets.

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