Acrylic is a thermoplastic material that is 15 times stronger than glass. With its multiple features, it is no surprise that many industries have adopted this material into their applications. Although the acrylic sheets that we see today usually look identical to each other, acrylic has many types depending on your application. Acrylic is classified and differentiated by their function, their appearance, and how it is manufactured. Know their differences below:
How it is Manufactured:
1. Cast
The main difference between cast and extruded acrylic is how it is manufactured. Cast acrylic is made by pouring and mixing the raw materials into a mold that determines its thickness. These are then placed into an oven to be heated and hardened.
2. Extruded
The extruded acrylic is created by “feeding” the Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) into an extrusion barrel to form consistent sheets for a faster and cheaper cost.
Appearance
1. Clear
Clear acrylic sheets provide optimum transparency with strong impact resistance better than glass. Because of this reason, it is a common alternative for glass applications for high traffic areas.
2. White
White acrylic sheets are great for customized signages and applications. It is a lightweight, weather resistant material that will surely send your business message across.
3. Colored
Colored acrylic sheets offer multiple colors for multiple applications and industries. A common application is brand signages, because the colors remain vibrant and new even when placed outdoors.
4. Light Diffusing
Light diffusing acrylics offer the same qualities as regular acrylic sheets, with the additional function of privacy and security because of less light transmission.
5. Textured
Textured acrylics are pretty common for DIY enthusiasts and professional designers because of its commercial and residential applications. The flat, patterned surface is great for bathroom partitions, tables, and glazed windows, and consequently adds visual interest and engages your other senses.
Function
1. Abrasion Resistant
This special function acrylic is commonly used for surfaces prone to chemical spills or traffic because it has greater resistance.
2. Anti-Static
The anti static coating acrylic sheet is a durable sheet that reduces the electrostatic discharge on its surface. This minimizes possible hazards and eliminates unnecessary damages brought by
3. UV- Resistant
UV resistant acrylic sheets help protect your material from the harmful effects of constant exposure to sunlight and other artificial light sources, like yellowing and brittleness.
Knowing the different types of acrylic helps you distinguish their advantages and disadvantages for your application. Acrybest is a trusted brand of acrylic sheets in the Philippines. You can buy acrylic sheets in all Polylite stores nationwide. Aside from acrylic sheets, Polylite is the home of reliable skylight roofs in the Philippines, twinwall polycarbonate, corrugated polycarbonate and ACP colored panels.
