Acrylic — A Versatile Material

Many of the products that are found on retail shelves and in commercial settings contain some type of plastic. One popular plastic material used by manufacturers is acrylic. This clear polymer is easy to work with and can be used in a variety of applications.

Acrylic fabrication can include a variety of processes, each designed to produce a durable and aesthetically-pleasing product. Understanding how acrylic is fabricated and what acrylic is used for will help you gain a deeper appreciation for this versatile material in the future.

Thermoplastic Properties

One of the reasons acrylic is so easy for manufacturers to work with is because this material has inherent thermoplastic properties. Acrylic becomes incredibly flexible and supple when it is heated. This allows raw acrylic to formed and shaped into any design required by the manufacturer. Molten acrylic cools quickly as well, reducing processing time and helping to maximize the profit of any manufacturing facility.

Versatile Fabrication Techniques

Acrylic is durable enough to withstand exposure to a variety of fabrication techniques. Molten acrylic can be poured into special molds to create unique shapes. Acrylic sheets can be cut, folded, or milled to produce the desired design.

Because of the inherent thermoplastic properties acrylic has, fabrication processes like cold forming, drape forming, and thermoforming can be used to create intricate designs out of pure acrylic.

Benefits of Acrylic

Once a piece of raw acrylic has been fabricated in an industrial setting, it can be put to use in a variety of ways. Acrylic products are resistant to impact and damage from sunlight and extreme temperatures. Acrylic also has excellent optical clarity, which increases the fields in which fabricated acrylic components can be used.

You can find acrylic parts in many different industries, including the automotive and architectural industries. Many marine and aquatic facilities make use of acrylic in their diving windows and aquarium viewing areas because acrylic has the ability to withstand the significant water pressure present in these settings.

Whether raw acrylic will be made into a camera lens or a submarine window, the durability and beauty of acrylic will shine through.

Fabrication techniques are often refined to suit the unique material being manufactured. Acrylic fabrication methods can be applied to other materials within your manufacturing facility as well to help reduce overhead spending and increase profitability over time. Consider using acrylic fabrications as a base material when evaluating your production needs in the future.