Pick Up Suitable Acrylic For Laser Cutting

August 20, 2024

1. Can acrylic be laser cut?

Of course yes. Laser cutting has become the preferred method for many professionals and hobbyists working with acrylic, offering a combination of quality, speed, and versatility that’s hard to match with other cutting methods.

The thickness of acrylic sheets for laser cutting that can be cut depends on the laser’s power. Most standard CO2 lasers used in small to medium-sized operations can effectively cut laserable acrylic sheets up to 1/2 inch (12mm) thick, while more powerful industrial lasers can handle even thicker materials.

Is plexiglass the same as acrylic?

Yes, plexiglass and acrylic are essentially the same material. “Plexiglass” is a trade name that has become synonymous with acrylic sheets. The material itself is called polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and it is sold under various brand names, including Plexiglas, Acrylite, Lucite, and Perspex. They are lightweight, durable, and highly transparent, making them popular for various applications such as windows, signs, and protective barriers.

2. What kind of acrylic is used for laser cutting?

By manufacturing methods

Cast Acrylic

Cast acrylic is well-suited for laser cutting. Unlike extruded acrylic, cast acrylic melts less during the cutting process, resulting in smoother edges and more precise cuts with minimal post-processing required. It’s also versatile, allowing for both cutting and engraving, making it ideal for detailed projects like signage, decorations, and custom art pieces.

Extruded Acrylic

Extruded acrylic is not as ideal for laser cutting as cast acrylic. While it can be cut with a laser, the edges tend to be rougher. Additionally, extruded acrylic is more prone to melting during the cutting process, leading to uneven cuts and requiring more post-processing. But being less expensive, it’s generally better suited for applications where the edge quality is less critical or where other methods of cutting are being used.

By finishes and appearances

Clear Acrylic

The most common type, available in both cast and extruded forms. It’s widely used for general applications like decorations, advertising boards and so on.

Colored Acrylic

Available in a wide range of vibrant colors, colored acrylic is great for signage, decorative panels, and artistic projects. Both cast and extruded acrylic can come in various colors.

Mirrored Acrylic

A reflective surface makes this type ideal for decorative applications, signage, and displays. It’s lighter and more shatter-resistant than glass mirrors.

Textured Acrylic

Features patterns or textures on one or both sides. This type is often used in decorative panels, personal accessories and so on.

In addition to these commonly used types, there are also matte Frosted Acrylic and light-reactive Fluorescent Acrylic. Each of these types can be used with a laser cutter, but the specific choice depends on the visual and functional needs of your project.

3.What is the best acrylic for laser cutting?

To answer this question, it’s helpful to understand what properties make an acrylic suitable for laser cutting. The best acrylic for laser cutting typically has the following characteristics:

Based on these criteria, extruded acrylic sheets are generally considered the best option for laser cutting. Here’s why:

Cast acrylic has better optical clarity compared to extruded acrylic.
It cuts more cleanly, leaving smoother edges that require less post-processing.
It tends to warp less when heated by the laser.
Cast acrylic has lower internal stress, which reduces the risk of cracking during cutting.

The thickness of the acrylic sheet also matters. Thinner sheets (1/8″ to 1/4″) are easier to cut and produce cleaner edges. For thicker materials, you may need multiple passes or higher laser power.

Additionally, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of your project, such as color, finish (glossy or matte), and any special properties like UV resistance.

What are the best settings to laser cut acrylic?

To achieve optimal results when laser cutting acrylic, it’s important to set the laser parameters correctly. While settings can vary depending on the specific laser machine and acrylic thickness, here are general guidelines:

Power and speed

Higher power and slower speed for thicker acrylic sheets. For example, for a 3mm acrylic sheet, around 40-60% power and a speed of around 20-30mm/s is often sufficient, while thicker sheets might require up to 80-100% and go as slow as 5-10mm/s.

Air Assist

Use air assist to remove debris and reduce the risk of fire during cutting. This also helps achieve cleaner edges.

Passes

For very thick acrylic, multiple passes may be required, but usually, one pass is enough if the settings are correct.

4. Where to buy acrylic sheets for laser cutting?

● Ace Hardware (selection may be limited)

Direct from manufacturers

● Plaskolite

● Lucite International

Consider factors like shipping costs, minimum order quantities, and return policies when choosing a supplier. Local pickup can sometimes be more economical for larger sheets. Also, check if the retailer offers custom cutting services if you need specific sizes of laser acrylic sheets.

#acrylic sheets for laser cutting, #acrylic for laser cutting, #colored acrylic, #laser acrylic sheets, #where to buy acrylic sheets for laser cutting