What’s The Difference Between Cast Acrylic And Extruded Acrylic Sheet?
The process of manufacturing acrylic is a tricky one. You have to know what you want and how to get it. There is a difference between cast acrylic sheets and extruded acrylic sheets. Cast acrylic is made from a liquid that is heated until it becomes liquid, then poured into a mold, then cooled for about eight hours. Extruded acrylic can be made from either liquid or solid material and is the most common type of acrylic found in home decor today.
In this article, we will compare the two types of products so that you can better decide which type of acrylic would best suit your needs!
When it comes to acrylic, there are two main types that you will find on the market — cast acrylic and extruded acrylic. Both have their own unique set of properties that make them ideal for different applications. So, what’s the difference between the two?
What is Cast Acrylic?
Cast acrylic is a type of acrylic that is made by pouring molten acrylic into a mold. The mold helps to give the acrylic its shape and can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, or silicone. Cast acrylic is often used for creating sculptures, jewelry, and other decorative items. It is also sometimes used in place of glass because it is more shatter-resistant.
What is Extruded Acrylic?
Extruded acrylic sheet is a type of acrylic that is made by extruding molten plastic through a die. This results in a long, continuous sheet of material that can be cut to size as needed. Extruded acrylic is often used for applications where transparency and clarity are important, such as in store windows or display cases. It can also be used for things like signs, machine guards, and aquariums.
Differences between Cast and Extruded Acrylic
When it comes to acrylic, there are two main types: cast and extruded. Both have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to know the difference before choosing which one is right for your project.
➮ Cast acrylic is made by pouring liquid acrylic into a mold. This results in a thicker, more durable piece of acrylic. It’s also more expensive and harder to work with than extruded acrylic.
➮ Extruded acrylic is made by pushing molten acrylic through a die. This results in a thinner, less durable piece of acrylic. It’s also less expensive and easier to work with than cast acrylic.
So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your project and what you need the acrylic for. If you need a strong, durable piece, then cast acrylic is the way to go. If you need something that’s easier to work with and less expensive, then extruded acrylic is the better choice.
Conclusion
Cast and extruded acrylic are both great materials for a variety of applications, but there are some key differences between the two. Cast acrylic is optically clearer, has better resistance to heat and chemicals, and can be machined and polished to a higher standard. Extruded acrylic is less expensive, easier to work with, and available in a wider range of colors and sizes. Ultimately, the best material for your project will depend on your specific needs and requirements and extruded acrylic sheet manufacturers you choose.