Plastics such as acrylic can be formed (shaped) in different ways. One of the most popular methods of shaping plastic materials like acrylic is to fold (bend) it on a ‘strip heater’, at different angles.
What are the Properties of Acrylic?
| Property | Value |
| Technical Name | Acrylic (PMMA) |
| Chemical Formula | (C5H8O2)n |
| Melt Temperature | 130°C (266°F) *** |
| Typical Injection Mold Temperature | 79-107°C (175-225°F) *** |
| Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) | 95°C (203°F) at 0.46 MPa (66 PSI) ** |
| Tensile Strength | 65 MPa (9400 PSI) *** |
| Flexural Strength | 90 MPa (13000 PSI) *** |
| Specific Gravity | 1.18 |
| Shrink Rate | 0.2 – 1% (.002 – .01 in/in) *** |
Overview
Plastics such as acrylic can be formed (shaped) in different ways. One of the most popular methods of shaping plastic materials like acrylic is to fold (bend) it on a ‘strip heater’, at different angles. An example of a strip heater is shown below. A heating element extends along the length of the strip heater and gives off intense heat when it is turned on.Thus making it easier to bend
Acrylic is an incredibly useful plastic for applications requiring transparency where high impact resistance is not an issue. Acrylic is very scratch resistant compared to other clear plastics. It is a lighter alternative to glass and an economic substitute for polycarbonate in applications where strength is not a crucial factor. It can be cut into extremely fine shapes using laser cutting technology because the material vaporizes upon impact with the concentrated laser energy.
ACRYLIC IS WIDELY USED FOR:
- Indoor and outdoor signs
- POP displays and exhibits
- Architectural glazing, skylights
- LED diffusing lighting panels
- Transportation applications
- Brochure holders
- Shelves and retail fixtures
- Transparent manifolds
