Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-03-29 Origin: Site
Cast Acrylic:
Made by pouring liquid methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomer into a mold and allowing it to cure under heat or UV light.
Polymerization occurs slowly, resulting in a more uniform molecular structure.
Typically has a higher molecular weight.
Extruded Acrylic:
Produced by forcing heated acrylic pellets through a die (extrusion process) to form a continuous sheet.
Faster production process with less cooling time.
Lower molecular weight compared to cast acrylic.
| Property | Cast Acrylic | Extruded Acrylic |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Hardness | Harder, more scratch-resistant | Softer, more prone to scratches |
| Optical Clarity | Superior clarity, better for displays | Slightly less clarity, may have faint lines |
| Impact Resistance | More brittle, cracks rather than bends | More flexible, less likely to crack |
| Thermoforming | Better for deep draws (heats evenly) | Can warp or bubble under high heat |
| Machining & Finishing | Easier to cut, drill, and polish (clean edges) | Can melt or chip during machining |
| Chemical Resistance | More resistant to solvents & chemicals | Less resistant, can craze with solvents |
| Thickness Tolerance | Wider range, more consistent thickness | Tighter tolerances, but may vary slightly |
| Cost | More expensive (labor-intensive process) | Cheaper (mass-produced) |
Cast Acrylic:
High-end displays, aquariums, signage, lenses, and laser cutting.
Applications requiring superior optical quality and durability.
Extruded Acrylic:
Budget-friendly projects, protective barriers, light diffusers, and simple fabrication.
Better for continuous sheet applications (e.g., retail fixtures).
Choose Cast Acrylic if you need:
Better optical clarity, machining ease, or chemical resistance.
Thicker sheets or custom shapes.
Choose Extruded Acrylic if you need:
Lower cost, consistent thickness, or large-volume production.
Simple bending or forming without deep draws.
Would you like recommendations for a specific project?
