Acrylic, also known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), is a versatile material that is used in a wide range of applications. It is a transparent thermoplastic that is lightweight, weather-resistant, and has a high strength-to-weight ratio. Acrylic can be manufactured using two different processes: casting and extrusion. The main difference between acrylic and extruded acrylic lies in the way they are produced and the properties they possess. Extruded acrylic is made by pushing molten acrylic resin through a die, which results in a continuous sheet or rod of acrylic. This process is called extrusion. The extruded acrylic sheets are typically produced in large quantities and can be cut to size for various applications. Extruded acrylic is known for its consistent thickness and flatness. On the other hand, acrylic sheets made using the casting process are produced by pouring liquid acrylic into a mold and allowing it to harden and cure. This method allows for more flexibility in terms of size, shape, and thickness of the acrylic sheets. Cast acrylic is often used for specialized applications that require unique shapes or thicker sheets. When it comes to their properties, both acrylic and extruded acrylic share many similarities. Here are some of the key characteristics of acrylic: 1. Transparency: Acrylic has excellent optical clarity, making it an ideal choice for applications that require transparency, such as windows, signs, and displays. 2. Weather resistance: Acrylic is highly resistant to UV radiation and weathering, making it suitable for outdoor applications. It does not yellow or become brittle over time. 3. Impact resistance: Acrylic is more impact-resistant than glass, making it a safer alternative for products that may be prone to breakage or shattering. 4. Lightweight: Acrylic sheets are lighter than glass, making them easier to handle and transport. Despite these similarities, there are some differences between acrylic and extruded acrylic that should be considered: 1. Price: Extruded acrylic sheets are generally less expensive than cast acrylic sheets due to the different manufacturing processes involved. 2. Thickness availability: Extruded acrylic sheets are typically available in a wider range of thicknesses compared to cast acrylic sheets. 3. Physical properties: While both types of acrylic have similar physical properties, extruded acrylic may have slightly lower impact strength and chemical resistance compared to cast acrylic. In summary, the main difference between acrylic and extruded acrylic lies in the manufacturing process, resulting in variations in pricing, thickness availability, and some physical properties. Both types of acrylic have their own advantages and are chosen based on the specific requirements of the application.
Jiangmen Kunxin New Material Technology Co., Ltd has got over 10 years in Polycarbonate sheets and Acrylic Sheets manufacturing and supplying, and achieve two brand "J.K Optics" and "KunXin plas", which specialize in the optical Acrylic and Polycarbonate diffusion sheet and Textured Acrylic Panel manufacturing separately , has been serving the lighting industry & decoration material market for more than 10 years, products included: Light Diffuser.Optical Diffuser Film & Reflector.Light Guide Plate.Clear Acrylic Sheet.Reeded Or Stripe Acrylic Sheet.Textruded Acrylic Sheet;
