#perspexcuttosize

R&T Plastic Fabricators is a custom perspex fabrication and portable sneeze guard supplier in Australia. We specialize in industrial perspex, windows, screen mesh and fabrications for a variety of uses. Our team of plastics fabricators has over 15 years’ experience in the industry and has extensive experience providing top quality bespoke services to customers around Australia.

If you are looking for a clear Perspex sheet cut to size, then look no further. R & T Plastic Fabricators is a leading manufacturer of plastic. We make products from Plastic Plates, Table Covers, Acrylic Plates, Acrylic sheets with and without the holes, acrylic key rings and badges, Acrylic photo frames, clocks, mirrors and much more.

If you are looking for a clear Perspex sheet cut to size, then look no further. R & T Plastic Fabricators is a leading manufacturer of plastic. We make products from Plastic Plates, Table Covers, Acrylic Plates, Acrylic sheets with and without the holes, acrylic key rings and badges, Acrylic photo frames, clocks, mirrors and much more.

The days are in the past where glass was preferred over other materials. Now is the time for a more durable and versatile product, Plexiglass (also known as acrylic). Being one of the oldest synthetic materials, acrylic plastic is creating waves and is here to stay!

The reason for the widespread popularity of this synthetic polymer is its versatility and the amplified aesthetics that it brings to whatever project it is implemented in. Many people are unaware of the wonders and boons Plexiglass is blessed with. Therefore, we bring you this valuable guide that deals with all the benefits, processes, and everything you need to know about this extraordinary form of plastic.

What is acrylic plastic?

Acrylic plastic is a strong synthetic polymer technically referred to as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). It’s a versatile product that generally comes in sheets but is also available in varying thicknesses, shapes, and styles. This plastic could easily be customised into different shapes and colours as per your business needs.

They have a glass-like appearance but are lighter in weight and cheaper in cost than glass. When exposed to a high level of heat it could be modified into interesting shapes, sizes, and products. The clear surface it provides is even worthier and transparent than glass that creates glares and reflects light.

Since acrylic plastic or Plexiglass can be customised into a wide array of designs, it creates amazing products such as window panes, aquariums, retail signage and displays, greenhouse panels, bullet-resistant glass, and many more useful applications.

Benefits of custom acrylic sheets:

Many businesses are now switching to Custom Acrylic Sheets in the replacement of glass because of the myriad of benefits they have to offer. Some of them are as follows:

1.      Stability and strength:

The major switch to Acrylic is because of the undaunted strength and stability it has to offer. This lightweight material is more durable than glass, wood, and even some metals. It gives the confidence to the businesses that they won’t face any accident in its presence. And in case of an accident, they do not shatter into tiny edgy pieces, rather they break into big blunt pieces.

Therefore they are the best options to make sliding doors, window panes, showroom and shop windows etc.

Moreover, it is half the weight of glass but 10 times more impact resistant than its counterparts and it could bear harsh weather and environmental conditions quite conveniently.

2.      Easily fabricated:

Another wonder of acrylic is that it is malleable when exposed to heat, which allows moulding into desired shapes and structures. Not only this, but they are easy to work upon as if you are working on wood.

The acrylic sheets are more convenient to work upon than glass as they can be transported, installed, drilled, or sawed without any threat of breaking up in the process. Even the sheets could be cut and shaped using traditional tools used to cut wood. Because the polymers in the Acrylic sheet are flexible and provide easy customisation.

3.      Cost-Effective:

Since acrylic sheets are lighter than glass and are more convenient to work upon, it requires less effort and money to produce and shape them, therefore they are a better cost-effective alternative to glass.

Their transportation and shipping charges are also reduced. The actual cost depends on the type and quality of the acrylic sheet you are purchasing. The enormous pool of acrylic sheets consists of normal ones, coloured ones, mirrored sheets, Lucite blocks, fluorescent sheets, and many more.

Moreover, they also let you save on coating and films because you can opt from UV-filtering, UV-transmitting, or impact modified sheets.

4.      Highly transparent:

Do you know Acrylic plastic is 90% more transparent than traditional glass, allowing better clarity and transparency? When exposed to direct sunlight it does not get dull and yellow with constant use and time. Rather its transmittance and aesthetic remain untouched even after a long period. This quality of Plexiglass is not even affected by its thickness. No matter how thick it is, it will always remain clear without any discolouration.

5.      Easy to maintain:

Acrylic sheets are easy to clean and maintain as they are less prone to stains and dust. Where there are some basic guidelines to keep it clean and shining for a long time, cleaning them is an instant job without many hurdles.

Just use a wet and clean microfiber cloth as the dirt particles from the cloth can cause scratches and defects in the sheet. Stay gentle while cleaning it and it will go a long way to serve you and your business purpose.

6.      Easy to process:

Acrylic sheets offer an easy processing procedure as compared to glass sheets. There are endless options to process the acrylic sheets. Whether you saw, mill, engrave, drill, polish, and bend with heat, these sheets can be processed and create beautiful outcomes.

7.      Customise friendly:

 Acrylic sheets offer greater ground for customisation and the chance to be creative and productive. Its versatility makes it the priority in any business application that demands attractive, safe, and cost-friendly options. Whether you demand a different shape and design or want multi-layered sheets with greater depths and textures, acrylic sheets can serve the purpose the best.

Information about acrylic cutting:

Acrylic Sheets Cut-to-Size is a common practice performed to modify the plain rectangular large sheets of Acrylic into desired shapes for application. The acrylic sheets are easy to work upon therefore they could be cut using standard workshop equipment. On the other hand, Perspex cut to size can be machined using conventional high-speed milling machines with extraordinary results.

The process of cutting acrylic:

Acrylic Sheets Cut-to-Size and fabricated on demand are conveniently available with many plastic suppliers like Plastic Online. But following the below steps, acrylic can be cut and polished by individuals as well.

Although sawing the material by hand will not give you clean-finished results like laser-cut acrylic. But in some situations, these would serve the purpose for you.

Firstly you will need to determine the     thickness of the sheets to find a suitable method of cutting them.

For the cutting procedure, you will     need a sharp knife, table saw, hand saw, and power tool cutter. The     thickness of the sheet will determine the right tool for your usage.

Arrange a suitable setup for cutting     the sheets to avoid any injuries in the process. Find a stable flat     surface for the operation.

Then outline the area up to 1/8th     depth for the cut you want to make with a sharp knife. You can use a     pocket knife for this purpose. Then snap the sheet from the edges on the     outlined mark.

For     thicker acrylic sheets: use a     jigsaw for precise cutting. Because it is more convenient to use it, otherwise using a knife can be dangerous and will only     damage the sheet badly. You can also use circular saws for getting     efficient and safe results.

Then for smooth edges, you will need     to give a finishing touch. You can scrape off the loose sides and then     sanding or filing the edges to make them smooth and glossy. You     can use sandpaper to get a polished look.

Which tool to use?

Hand Saw: although     it requires some hard work and excessive polishing to bring finished     results. You can make the task a little easier by using a saw with more     teeth or a jigsaw.

Jigsaw: Choose a     blade with a sharp edge. Jigsaw gives you the benefit of cutting rounded     corners and creating all types of desired shapes.

Band Saw: For     creating unusual shapes use Band Saw. Decrease the number of teeth on the     blade with the increase in plastic thickness.

Laser Cutting: This creates the     cleanest surface and finishes using a computer graphic program and a CO2     laser cutting machine as compared to other equipment.

Cost of acrylic cutting in Australia:

The cost of acrylic cutting in Australia depends on the thickness and type of material and complexity of the design. Cutting and scoring costs are based on linear cutting distances and the engraving cost is determined by the perimeter of the engravings. Cutting of 3mm plastics generally starts from $0.25 per inch whereas 3mm acrylic cutting starts from $0.15 per inch.

Acrylic plastic offers a high-quality finished product giving good value for money invested in the product. As it promises a purer appearance and stronger product than other options available in the market.

Custom acrylic cutting:

Acrylic sheets are popular plastic to serve multiple purposes in a wide number of industries. Plastic Online lets you customize your Foam PVC sheets, Australia in the most convenient way. You can select from the numerous options of plastic sheets, rods, and tubes available at our online store. Select from the interesting range of Plexiglass, choose your desired colours, thickness, sizes, and many such customized options to create the magic you have always dreamed of at an extremely reasonable price.  

Plastic cut to size is one of the best sold and popular plastic products, as it enables our customers to create finished products in the most effective manner. At Plastic Online we provide a wide range of plastic materials such as clear Perspex sheet cut to size, simplifying your manufacturing processes and making it possible to develop the most unique and innovative products.

Here are the types of plastic we provide cut to size:

·        ABS

ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene and is an opaque thermoplastic and amorphous polymer. ABS can be heated to its melting point, cooled, and re-heated again with very little degradation, which makes it easy to recycle multiple times. Popular products made with ABS include LEGO toys, keys on computer keyboards, and plastic face-guards on wall sockets.

·        Acetal Rod

Acetal rod is a semi-crystalline plastic that has good wear properties in wet environments. It barely absorbs moisture and is used in close tolerance mechanical parts and electrical insulators. Acetal rod is resistant to chemicals such as solvents but does not behave well in abrasive wear applications.

·        ACM

ACM stands for aluminium composite material, a material with good dimensional stability and two times lighter than aluminium. ACM is obtained by bonding two pre-painted aluminium sheets to a polyethylene core and is used in indoor and outdoor applications requiring a sleek look and good dimensional stability.

·        Acrylic

Acrylic, also called PMMA Poly (methyl methacrylate) is a transparent thermoplastic homopolymer known by multiple trade names, including Plexiglass and Perspex. It was developed as an impact-resistant alternative to glass and it was first produced in 1928. Acrylic is one of the clearest plastics on the market and is currently used for paint, acrylic nails, lenses, security barriers, medical devices, furniture, and LCD screens.

·        Acrylic Mirror

Acrylic mirror is used as an alternative to glass mirror and is preferred because it has ten times the impact strength of glass. It is a plastic highly reflective mirrored surface with a grey backing on the reverse and is used in the following applications: gym mirror, display cases, retail display, architectural design, cosmetic display, and home use.

·        Decorative Designed Acrylic Panel

This material is a specialty acrylic sheet used by architects, designers, and interior decorators. This type of plastic has made it possible to create attractive furniture and decorative spaces in unique textures and colours. Unlike other plastic materials, decorative acrylic sheets have unparalleled light diffusion properties.

·        Corrugated Flute

Corrugated flute board has revolutionised the storage and shipping of goods due to its ability to protect various items from shocks and damage. It is a stronger alternative to paperboard cartons and comes in different wall thicknesses, known as flutes size:

o   E-Flute: 1/16" thick, 90 flutes per linear foot

o   B-Flute: 1/8" thick, 47 flutes per linear foot

o   C-Flute: 3/16" thick, 39 flutes per linear foot

o   A-Flute: 1/4" thick, 33 flutes per linear foot

·        Foam PVC

Commonly used in the display and exhibition industry, PVC foam sheet has been created by German chemist Eugen Baumann in 1872. Also known as expanded PVC, it comes in a range of densities and is highly resistant to moisture and various chemicals.

·        HDPE Polyethylene

HDPE (high density poly ethylene) is one of the most versatile plastic materials, with a variety of applications, such as cutting boards, piping, bleach bottles, shampoo bottles, milk jugs, and plastic bottles. Aside from food applications, HDPE is found in unexpected applications like snowboards, shoe lasts, beverage containers, and plastic surgery.

·        Nylon

Nylon is a widely-used synthetic plastic material usually manufactured as a fibre. It can be melted to form fibres, filaments, and bristles, but it can also be formed into moulded products that have a high resistance to wear, heat, and chemicals.

·        Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is an amorphous thermoplastic that is naturally transparent and commercially available in a variety of colours. This material is used in applications that require internal transmission of heat and impact resistance (such as bullet-proof glass). Other applications of polycarbonate are eyewear, automotive components, medical devices, greenhouses, protective gear, and exterior lighting fixtures.

·        Polypropylene

Polypropylene is a rigid and crystalline thermoplastic found in medical devices, packaging trays, household products, and battery cases. It is one of the most widely-used polymers today and it has the lowest density among plastics available on the market. There are multiple types of polypropylene available:

o   Polypropylene Homopolymer

o   Polypropylene Copolymer 

o   Polypropylene, Impact Copolymer

o   Expanded Polypropylene

o   Polypropylene Terpolymer

o   Polypropylene, High Melt Strength (HMS PP)

·        Prismatic Light Diffuser

Polycarbonate prismatic light diffusers are produced with a textured finish on one side with the purpose of transmitting and diffusing light while reducing glare. Typical applications are fluorescent light fittings, lighting lenses, and ceiling lighting tiles.

·        Egg Crate

Egg crate panels are a lightweight and cost-effective solution for fluorescent light cover needs (garages, recreation rooms, office buildings, basements, kitchen and bath fixtures, and residential locations).

·        PVC

PVC is the world’s third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer and is used in a huge range of applications, like building and construction, health care, electronics, automotive, etc.

·        UHMWPE Polyethylene

Ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is the first material of choice in total joint replacements due to properties such as biocompatibility, wear resistance, and structural strength. Aside from medical applications, it is used to produce fibre, wires, and marine infrastructure.

Why Custom Plastic Cutting

There are multiple reasons to use Perspex cut to size or any other plastic cut to custom dimensions by Plastic Online Australia:

·        Less error

Humans make mistakes, no matter how skilled and experienced they are. In today’s manufacturing environment, human error is a major concern. The competition is high and the demands of customers are even higher; even the smallest mistake can damage the reputation of a company. This is why Plastic Online uses laser cutting machines to obtain cut to size plastic materials.

These automatised machines are provided instructions by a computer and they do their job seamlessly, ensuring a degree of consistency that is not possible with human hands. Every product will be identical with the one preceding it, every single time.

·        Precise results

Laser cutting has high accuracy and can be used for the production of parts with complex internal and external contours and different shapes.

·        Customers will get the product faster

The method you choose for cutting your materials will have a major impact on the quality of the finished product and on the time needed to manufacture it. By using materials such as Perspex cut to size near, your customers will get their products sooner as Plastic Online takes care of the cutting using the latest technologies and you can focus on other important aspects of manufacturing.

Having to perform intricate design work by hand takes a lot of time, especially on complex projects. Laser cutting, on the other hand, makes it possible to obtain precise cuts in a short time-frame. The speed of laser processing is multiple times higher than by traditional methods, ensuring the readiness of products in the shortest possible time.

·        Keeping things clean

Most forms of mechanical cutting generate heat and can have unwanted effects on the finished product, such as surface scuffing or minor warping. This can make lines appear inaccurate or low quality. With laser cutting performed by Plastic Online, warping is reduced to a minimum as only a small area is affected by heat. Material contamination risk is reduced as well during the cutting due to the lack of contact with physical cutting tools.

How Perspex cut to size near is obtained

Acrylic or Perspex is perfect for laser processing, a process making it possible to obtain the most creative point of sale displays and illuminated advertisements.

No additional processing is required and panels up to 25 mm can be cut efficiently and cost-effectively. The CO2 laser creates matted finishes, while the fibre laser is used to create colour changes.

A CAD file is required in order to cut a particular design from acrylic material. The process is carried out by a machine that emits laser that cuts through the material by burning or vaporizing it. This way, edges are round, surfaces are smooth, and more nuanced designs can be created.

Laser cutting needs to be performed in controlled environments by trained staff as it generates extremely high temperatures. The heat causes the material to produce fumes that can be dangerous to health. Protective gear (mask and goggles) is recommended to prevent inhaling toxic fumes.

Even if nowadays there are multiple solutions to cut acrylic, there are multiple factors involved in the cutting process, such as the brand and type of acrylic to cut, choosing the right acrylic cutting machine, setting up a working table, preparing the acrylic sheet, setting up the laser cutting acrylic machine, and handling the actual process to obtain precise and smooth cuts.

There is an extremely large variety of plastic fabrication methods available, with each process offering distinct advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right method depends on the products you require and on their size. The important thing is that no matter what product you need, whether that is acrylic cut to size or larger high impact polystyrene sheet, there is a fabrication method suitable for you!

This article will give you a tour among the most popular and effective plastic fabrication, cutting, and moulding methods so you can make an informed decision and choose the one that will suit your needs best.

CNC Laser Cutting

CNC stands for computerised numerical controlled. This refers to the automated control of machining tools and 3D printers through the use of a computer. Instead of a manual operator directly controlling the machining operation, a computer directs the process by following instructions from pre-programmed software and code. The instructions can be written by a person or generated by computer-aided design software (CAD).

This computerized manufacturing process involves a laser beam melting the material away creating a cut; the excess is then removed by a high-pressure gas.

Advantages of CNC laser cutting:

-          Making it possible to cut different shapes;

-          No need to exchange tools for different cuts;

-          Easy to make intricate cuts;

-          More accuracy compared to thermal cutting;

-          Faster than traditional mechanical cutting methods;

-          A highly automated process requiring little manpower.

Disadvantages of CNC laser cutting:

-          It requires a high level of expertise;

-          Limitations to plastic thickness;

-          Large upfront costs;

-          It emits dangerous gas and fumes.

CNC laser cutting can be used with the majority of plastic variants, including harder plastics like acrylic. Typical applications of CNC plastic laser cutting are creative designs and signage, but the method is also used to manufacture automotive parts and plumbing.

CNC Router Cutting

A CNC router is a pre-programmed, computerised machine used for cutting various materials, such as steel, aluminium, foam, wood, composites, and plastic. The equipment uses computerised numerical control to route tool paths and manufactures a wide variety of items faster and with less waste.

Like the previous method, CNC router cutting also uses pre-programmed commands. Designs are created using CAD software, they are next converted to G-code, and eventually the CNC software runs the G-code that delivers instructions to the machine.

Advantages of CNC router cutting

-          Making precision cuts;

-          Not requiring human control and supervision;

-          Multiple safety features to reduce accident risk;

-          A CNC router is easy to update.

Disadvantages of CNC router cutting

-          Large upfront costs;

-          Decreasing the demand for manual machine operators;

-          Creating a skills gap in the manufacturing industry.

Items created with a CNC router are used as advertising signs, for crafts and arts, and for moulds and prototypes.

CNC Water Jet Cutting

CNC water jet cutting is one of the most versatile processes for shape cutting. It can be used for cutting virtually any material. This technique allows you to obtain a variety of products, including Perspex cut to size, all with a smooth, precise cut surface.

The water jet cutting process needs an intensifier pump that creates ultra-high pressure so it can cut through a variety of materials.

Advantages of CNC water jet cutting

-          Provides the highest precision cutting;

-          Can be combined with plasma or oxy-fuel on the same part;

-          Produces high tolerance parts with fine contours;

-          No heat affected zones, no melted plastic;

-          Lack of hazardous fumes and vapours;

-          Environmentally safe as no airborne dust is produced.

Disadvantages of CNC water jet cutting

-          Not suitable for brittle material like tempered glass or certain types of ceramics;

-          Is slower and more expensive than other techniques.

This method has been used to produce parts for the automotive, medical and aerospace industries.

Thermo Forming

Thermo forming is a technique for moulding plastic to obtain versatile products. There are two types of thermo forming: vacuum forming and pressure forming.

It all starts with high density polyethylene a high impact polystyrene sheet that is heated to make it easy to manipulate. When the sheet reaches a certain temperature, it is formed over a mould. The next step is cooling the new form, followed by trimming in order to increase usability.

Advantages of thermo forming

-          Adaptability to customer’s design needs;

-          Fast, which makes it suitable for building prototypes;

-          Low production costs;

-          Final results are very aesthetically pleasing.

Disadvantages of thermo forming

-          This method is limited to thin-walled parts;

-          The complexity of shapes it can be used to create has certain limitations;

-          The need for trimming lengthens production times;

-          It creates scrap plastic (which is recycled by most manufacturing companies).

The range of uses for thermo forming is very wide: rigid packaging for consumer goods, toys, plastic bins, and other products obtained from sheets.

CNC Vacuum Forming

CNC vacuum forming is a plastic manufacturing process consisting of heating a plastic sheet such as high density polyethylene and forming it into a shaped vacuum forming tool. The plastic sheet is cooled until it becomes hard and the part can be removed from the tool.

The procedure is relatively simple and can be used with a wide range of thermoplastic materials, such as acrylic, high impact acrylic, high impact styrene, polyethylene, polypropylene, and others.

Advantages of CNC vacuum forming

-          The process is very fast and versatile;

-          Allows you to obtain a variety of 3D objects;

-          Suitable for short run production;

-          Low manufacturing costs;

-          Consistent shapes and sizes from batch to batch;

-          Easy to scale production up or down.

Disadvantages of CNC vacuum forming

-          Only one part of product can be made at a time;

-          The need of additional costs and resources to finish components;

-          The number of details you can achieve with this technique is limited;

-          Prone to errors such as unwanted bubbles due to excess moisture or debris from the mould imprinted on clear or light-coloured parts.

CNC vacuum forming applications are similar to products obtained through thermo forming.

2D Laser Engraving

2D laser engraving is a technique enabling you to change the surface of an object using a laser beam. It is mostly used to create images on the surface of an object. 2D laser engraving is mostly used on acrylic materials.

The laser creates high heat that vaporizes matter and exposes cavities that form the desired image or text. A vectored file of the desired image or text is required from the client in order to produce the 2D engraving.

Advantages of 2D laser engraving

-          Can be used to engrave small objects;

-          The risk of damaging or deforming the material is low;

-          High precision;

-          The process does not include toxic solvents or inks;

-          Markings are not affected by time and tear.

Disadvantages of 2D laser engraving

-          Can be used for two-dimensional objects only;

-          Cannot be used for deep carving;

-          Not suitable for very hard materials or materials with a low ignition point.

The method is used for medical devices, fine art, and industrial applications.

3D Laser Engraving

3D laser engraving is used to create 3D engravings of photos and designs of various materials, including Perspex cut to size. Unlike 2D laser engraving, it also works on curved surfaces, creating distinct effects that were not possible to achieve in the past.

3D laser engraving can be described as burning away some parts of a materials surface in order to create depths for a great aesthetic finish.

Advantages of 3D laser engraving

-          Superior to 2D laser engraving and being used more and more as the surface shape of industrial products is rarely plane;

-          Suitable for deep carving;

-          Allows for multi-colour engraving;

-          High personalisation degrees;

Disadvantages of 3D laser engraving

-          More time-consuming compared to traditional 2D engraving, so it requires more patience.

Applications are similar to that of 2D laser engraving, with the difference that objects with curved surfaces can be engraved.

Acrylic is a transparent plastic used on a wide scale due to its ability to replace glass. It is usually available as acrylic cut to size that is converted into useful products such as sales displays, lenses, protective screens, roofing, windows, TV screen protectors, and many others.

But what makes products such as clear Perspex sheet cut to size the favourite of manufacturing businesses all over the world? The secret lies in the unique properties of this thermoplastic:

- Excellent optical clarity;

- Light transmission that is superior to the one of glass;

- Rigidity and good impact strength; if it breaks, acrylic forms dull pieces unlike glass which shatters into hundreds of sharp and dangerous little shards;

- Being easy to process and model due to excellent dimensional stability and low mould shrinkage;

- Can be sawed and cut using tools similar to those used for wood;

- Has a greater transparency than that of glass and will not present a greenish tint when moulded into thick sheets.

These properties make acrylic and its derived products, like Perspex sheet cut to size, suitable for a variety of uses and applications, such as:

- Furniture such as cabinets and coffee tables;

- Sporting equipment;

-  Aquariums;

-  Artistic sculpting;

-  Protection screens used in sports;

-  Sneeze screens that have become increasingly widely used since the Covid-19 pandemic to reduce the spread of the virus.

How to protect and prevent damage

Products and objects made from acrylic can last for years, even decades if you follow some simple protection rules in order to prevent damage, especially when working with acrylic in the creation of other products:

- When storing products such as acrylic sheet cut to size, it is recommended to protect them with polyethylene film overwrap to keep dirt and moisture away. Sheets must be stored vertically or in special racks leaning at an angle of approximately 10º. Plywood panels should be used to provide full support to the material. When acrylic sheets are stored horizontally, they must not be allowed to sag.

- Perspex sheets cut to size are usually delivered with sheet masking; this protection layer should be left on the product to protect the sheet surface. However, if you need to remove masking for detail work, bending, or thermoforming, store the unmasked sheets in the original shipping cartons and avoid unnecessary handling of unmasked sheet;

- Wear rubber gloves when handling acrylic and manipulate it by its edges;

- Neutralise static electricity which can form especially on new Perspex sheet cut to size; static electricity will attract dust, chips, and other small particles floating in the air and will ultimately contaminate the surface. Use an ionising air gun to temporarily eliminate static charges before any operations such as bending, painting, or thermoforming.

How to maintain and clean

The quality of a product comes out as high or low once you start using it.  High-quality Perspex cut to size will require little maintenance, but when you need to clean your acrylic products, it is important that you follow some simple rules to keep the surface intact and increase the lifespan:

- Start cleaning acrylic by dusting; this operation will remove particles that can scratch the acrylic if you start washing the material right away.  Use a soft, damp cloth to remove dust and avoid dry or gritty cloths that can create static electric charge and cause scratches.

- Wash acrylic sheets with a solution of mild soap or detergent and lukewarm water. Apply light pressure using a clean, soft cloth.

- If you need to remove oil, grease, or tar, use solutions such as kerosene, hexane, or aliphatic naphtha;

- Never use the following solutions on your acrylic objects: window cleaning sprays, acetone, gasoline, benzene, lacquer thinner, alcohol, benzene, or carbon tetrachloride. These can damage the surface of the acrylic sheet or weaken the sheet by causing small surface cracks.

How to repair or restore damaged/scratched acrylic

If your Perspex or acrylic surfaces are looking a little worn make sure you are paying attention. Follow these 4 simple points to learn how to improve the look of your acrylic surfaces, acrylic sheets or other acrylic products (also commonly known as Plexiglass or Perspex):

1. Make sure the plastic really is acrylic

A clear plastic may not always be made from acrylic; instead it might be a polycarbonate. If the plastic is polycarbonate, it is will no longer possible to remove the scratches.

2. Remove light scratches from acrylic

You will need acrylic polish, preferably specialist acrylic scratch remover that is designed for industrial use, and grit sandpaper, 800 and 1200 grit. Wet the 800-grit sandpaper and run it over the scratch in a circular motion. Repeat with dry grit paper, and alternate between wet and dry sandpaper. It is normal for your acrylic at this stage to look frosty and to display little scratch marks on it.  Next move onto 1200 grit sandpaper and keep rubbing until all scratches have been removed. Finally, dry the area with a soft, dry cotton cloth and apply acrylic polish. The acrylic will look as if it has never been scratched.

3. Remove deeper scratches

Deeper scratches can require a little more effort to remove, but you can still restore your acrylic sheet to an optimal condition. The method is similar to the previous one, with the difference that you need to start with 600 grit sandpaper and afterwards continue with the same process as described above.

4. Polish acrylic to restore its glossy look

Flame polishing is a great way of obtaining the smooth, glossy edges that we all like to see in acrylic cut to size. In order to complete this process, you will need a hydrogen-oxygen torch with a number 4 or 5 tip. Guide the flame over the acrylic edges, but do this very carefully as moving too slowly or too closely to the acrylic will damage it and bubbles will begin to appear in the plastic sheet. Overheating the acrylic can also make it melt, and going too fast can produce a matte aspect from the edges.

Looking for high quality acrylic cut to size? Contact Plastic Online today for a full turn-key service from design to manufacture.

Plastic Online is more than just your average plastic fabrication company – what makes us different is that we produce your plastic from scratch right here on the Gold Coast. We are a privately-owned business operating from our state-of-the-art facilities on the Gold Coast. Plastic Online started in 1991 and we now operate two manufacturing plants and retail sales facilities, one in Burleigh and one in Ashmore.

What makes us different from other plastic fabrication companies?

High-quality products

Reliable customer service

Taking pride in workmanship

Our local Gold Coast business success story (winner of GC Bus Excellence Awards)

A family-owned business that is passionate about everything we do

20+ years’ experience in fabrication and vacuum forming of plastics

Innovative manufacturing facilities

Our advanced cutting technologies to cut, engrave, and form many different materials into various shapes and component products

Wide range of product applications, such as signage, bus and automotive components -to name but just a few.

Nearly every supermarket at the moment is equipped with clear Perspex screens as a result of the Covid crisis. A sneeze screen positioned in front of a cash register or counter acts as a barrier to those airborne droplets and protects cashiers, pharmacists and receptionists, amongst others. Protection through screens reduces contamination risks from sneezing and coughing and these screens will be a common presence in the months to follow in supermarkets, cafes, and other areas where the public is served or people work together.

Safety measures will very likely be in place for some time after the lockdown is lifted, throughout the winter and even longer. This will make clear Perspex sheet cut to size a must for a variety of businesses, with the possibility of coming up with extra screens to separate customers using self-check-outs. If you are a business where staff interacts with clients on a daily basis, here are some reasons why you need to install Perspex cut to size screens at your office or store:

Reducing queues outside stores

Retailers have observed that queues outside their stores turn customers away; people tend to drive off or leave when they see a long queue outside. As winter approaches, ensuring safety conditions inside is even more important because customers will hate waiting outside in the cold to be able to get inside a supermarket or a pharmacy.

Perspex is easy to clean and maintain

Perspex screens are made of solid transparent plastic or polymethyl methacrylate, also commonly called acrylic. Perspex is a premium branded acrylic manufactured at the highest industry standards, which makes it more durable and resilient.

Perspex can be used for a period of up to 20 years when maintained properly without losing its properties or getting a yellow tint. In order to enjoy its properties and use it to its maximum potential, you need to clean it with soapy water or dedicated cleaning products while avoiding solutions containing ammonia, alcohol, or acids. A few tips and tricks on how to care for Perspex screens include blowing off larger dirt particles before cleaning the screen with a suitable solution, using a microfiber cloth for washing, and wiping screens until they are completely dry to prevent water marks.

Perspex is stronger than glass

Perspex has superior qualities compared to glass and is preferred to traditional materials in a variety of applications due to the following properties:

-  Clear Perspex sheet cut to size is up to 20 times more resistant to impact than glass;

-   It has a tensile strength of more than  10,000 lbs per square inch;

-   If Perspex breaks, it doesn’t shatter and it breaks off in large pieces with dull edges;

-  It is more flexible than glass and it supports more pressure when installed in large sheets; this makes it ideal for shower doors, windows, ball field enclosures, and hockey rinks.

Lightweight

Perspex is half the weight of glass, so it is easier to transport and install. It is so lightweight that similar materials are used to make artificial nails, dentures, and microspheres that are injected under the skin for cosmetic surgery.

Safe

Perspex does not release any of its ingredients into the environment and can be safely used as a counter attachment in grocery stores, catering, bakeries, etc.

Why does acrylic sheet protect against coronavirus?

Perspex cut to size screens are necessary where customers do not have the possibility to wash their hands immediately and employees come in contact with other people very frequently. Such transparent protective screens prevent the potentially infectious droplets from cough and sneeze as long as they are provided in custom size to cover the required area effectively. Screens make it possible to avoid contact with other people without maintaining a distance (which is not practical most times). Communication with customers is not affected and objects can be exchanged through the integrated shelf.

Perspex cut to size is practical because it eliminates the need for using a face visor and a mask. Both need replacing multiple times each day or to be adequately clean to ensure protection. Installing Perspex actually helps you save money and produce less waste by eliminating face visors and masks.

Perspex that has been tested in medical technology is particularly suitable for protection against the coronavirus because it can withstand sterilization, with the best materials withstanding more than 1000 sterilization processes. It is a reusable virus-free solution that protects human health and the environment.

Although cleaning Perspex requires some amount of attention (not cleaning it when dry or using rough cloth), it is very easy to disinfect. Bacteria and viruses can be removed from its surface using a soft cloth and isopropanol, an agent approved as hand disinfectant against Covid-19.

When acquiring Perspex screens for your business it is vital that you choose a provider that can offer custom clear Perspex sheet cut to size so you can install it as soon as it is delivered. Some manufacturers provide Perspex with a modular design, which means that multiple partitions can be connected together to cover longer counters. Customized designs can be optimised for specific locations as precise measurement are important when you need to provide sneeze protection in crowded spaces such as supermarkets.

Creating Covid-secure workplaces

Installing Perspex cut to size at your business is vital if you want to survive the aftermath of the Covid crisis and continue your activity without problems. Recently updated guidelines around workplace safety all around the world are implemented in order to allow people to go back to work in safety. Perspex sneeze guards and protection screens are part of Covid-secure workplaces and their use is included in official government guidelines. Perspex screens can actually help you maintain your business almost like it was before the pandemic, for both your employees and customers. Aside from preventing the spread of viruses, these screens come with other benefits, such as acoustic control. Open plan workspaces tend to be excessively noisy, which can cause problems with concentration, productivity, and well-being. Blocking some of the background noise is a positive side effect of these screens.  

Flexibility

Perspex is extremely versatile as it can be moulded in virtually any shape without losing its properties. All types of screens can be created from it, including free-standing screens which can be moved around the workspace to suit any task and requirement, even if it’s an unexpected meeting. The various solutions provided with the aid of Perspex will continue to be useful even after the Covid crisis is over because this virus is not the only pathogen to worry about. Even the common cold can have a significant impact on productivity and taking precautionary measures will become more important in the future. Using Perspex shows you are a business that cares about its employees and customers, which is the best way to ensure your success.