Types of Acrylic Suitable for Laser Cutting & Laser Engraving
Types of Acrylic Suitable for Laser Cutting & Laser Engraving
A Comprehensive Guide
Acrylic is a versatile thermoplastic material that can be laser cut and engraved with precision and detail. It comes in a variety of forms, including cast and extruded acrylic sheets, tubes, and rods. However, not all types of acrylic are suitable for laser processing. In this article, we will explore the different types of acrylic that can be laser processed and their properties.
Cast Acrylic:
Cast acrylic is the most popular form of acrylic that is widely used in laser cutting and engraving. It is made by pouring liquid acrylic into a mold and then allowing it to cool and solidify. Cast acrylic has excellent optical clarity, and it is available in various thicknesses and colors. It is ideal for producing intricate designs and high-quality engraved marks.
Extruded Acrylic:
Extruded acrylic is made by pushing the acrylic through a die, creating a continuous length of acrylic. It is less expensive than cast acrylic and has a lower melting point, which makes it easier to cut with a laser. However, it has a higher tolerance for color variation and is less clear than cast acrylic. Extruded acrylic is suitable for simple designs that do not require high-quality engraving.
Video Display | How the laser cutting thick acrylic works