Acrylic plastic is a transparent thermoplastic homopolymer commonly referred to as Plexiglas. This plastic has unique properties that make it ideal for a variety of uses, from basic household items to the fiber optic cables that power the world. These properties have made acrylic popular for manufacturing and DIY projects:

✴High impact resistance

✴High optical clarity

✴Inherent weather and UV resistance

✴Excellent dimensional stability

✴Light

✴Excellent chemical resistance

Of all these properties, the most frequently cited benefit of acrylic is its durability. Despite its low price, it is 10 times more resistant to impact than glass. Should acrylic break, it will break into blunt-edged pieces rather than sharp, dangerous ones. These properties have contributed to the popularity of acrylic as a commercial architectural window.

What is acrylic used for?

Whether you're looking for strength, longevity or transparency, acrylic plastic offers a variety of advantages over other materials and is versatile - meaning it can be used for a variety of different applications. Here are some examples.

✴Skylights and commercial windows

✴Retail signage and displays

✴Aquariums and glass containers

✴Manufacturing protective barriers

✴Bulletproof glass

✴Plexiglas windows

✴Greenhouse panels

If you are looking for a clear plastic that is easy to mold and has high impact resistance, then you will eventually need to use acrylic plastic to complete your project.

Acrylic Panels Frequently Asked Questions

What is acrylic sheet?

Acrylic plexiglass sheets are thermoplastics that are typically purchased in sheet form as a lightweight or shatterproof alternative to glass. Acrylic is known by many names; generic names include acrylic, acrylic glass and plexiglass.

Where does the thickness of acrylic come from?

The thickness of acrylic sheets positively affects factors such as impact resistance. For cast acrylic sheets, thicknesses range from 0.06 inches to 4 inches. Specifically, these thicknesses are 0.06", 1 ⁄ 8", 3 ⁄ 16", 1 ⁄ 4", 3 ⁄ 8", 1 ⁄ 4", 1 ⁄ 2", 1", 1.25", 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3" and 4".

How much does a sheet of acrylic cost?

The price depends on the size, thickness and quantity of the acrylic purchased. Therefore, it is difficult to be accurate without asking for a direct quote. For an estimate, please see our extruded acrylic sheet and cast acrylic sheet product pages.

Is there a difference between acrylic and Plexiglas?

Plexiglas is the common term for clear acrylic sheet - making acrylic and Plexiglas the same product. The origin of the term "plexiglass" comes from a brand of clear cast acrylic sheet called "plexiglass", but today plexiglass and acrylic are often used interchangeably.

How to cut acrylic sheets using basic tools

While KUNXIN offers more advanced methods of cutting and machining acrylic, the process is easily accomplished at home using basic tools. While the basic tools are not the best way to cut acrylic, both the scoring knife and Dremel are popular methods for cutting acrylic. If the best cut is needed, then it is best to have the plastic cut by an expert using a professional tool.

How to cut acrylic with a knife

A scoring knife is a simple and easy way to cut thin sheets of acrylic into clean, straight lines. Simply perform the following operations.

▴Use a marker or ruler to indicate the area to be cut

▴Use your scoring knife to create a shallow cut in the area

▴Place the paper on a table or other edge with the cutting side facing up

▴Use a quick, steady motion to bend the paper to the edge to create a straight, clean edge

How to cut acrylic with the Dremel

Dremel is a method for cutting acrylic sheets into complex shapes. After taking all necessary safety precautions, please consider using the following steps.

► Use markers to indicate the area that will be cut

► Clamp the acrylic - this will ensure a clean cut while preventing injury

► Equip your Dremel with a 561 set at 6 or 8

►Cut slowly, using water to ensure the bit does not overheat and distort the acrylic

►Consider sanding the edges of the acrylic sheet to remove any saw marks

While it is possible to cut the acrylic yourself, consider seeking the help of an expert to ensure the cutting process is done correctly the first time. Having a professional work on your acrylic sheet will ensure a clean cut, a proper finish, and most importantly, your overall safety.