In Australia, it is common to hear acrylic sheet referred to as Perspex. If you’re not familiar with the versatile nature of Perspex, it might be confusing to hear it spoken of in so many contexts that seem unrelated.
You may be wondering how Perspex cut to size can be used for window glass, furniture, art instalments and automobiles. You can learn a little more about Perspex below and why it is the plastic fabrication of choice for commercial and consumer applications.
Perspex is actually the brand name of a special type of plastic that is more commonly known as acrylic glass. This type of acrylic is most often used as a sturdy and lightweight alternative to actual glass, which means that manufacturers regularly need Perspex cut to size so that it can be fitted into fixtures such as windows and doors.
Perspex has many applications, but most people don’t know why they should choose Perspex over glass or polycarbonate. While each plastic material has its uses, it’s important to understand why Perspex is often chosen for manufacturing and general product creation over polycarbonate and glass.
- It's 17 times more resistant to impact than glass.
- Clear-cast acrylic by Perspex is guaranteed to be UV-resistant for 30 years.
- It has 92 percent light transmission.
- It's much more affordable than polycarbonate.
- Sheets are available in a huge range of colors.
- Materials are 100 percent recyclable.
- It's highly resistant to bowing and abrasions.
- It can be purchased in a comprehensive range of finishes.
Perspex is also lightweight, self-extinguishing and resistant to chemicals. In addition, if enough force is applied to cause it to shatter, it will do so in a way that is much safer than glass. This means there is less chance for injury or property damage.
- Sheet
- Rod
- Tube
- Machined components
In many cases, the better question to ask is what you can’t use Perspex for. It is incredibly versatile and can be used in a broad range of applications, including the following:
- Corporate signage
- Automotive lights
- Aquarium creation
- Helicopter windows
- Kitchen splashbacks
- Picture frame glass
- Greenhouse glass panels
- Clear or colored lighting fixtures
- Product display cases
- Light box creation
In essence, if you have a project that requires a tough, versatile and high-quality material, you will likely find that there is a style of Perspex that suits your needs perfectly. Because you can order Perspex cut to size, it’s ideal for projects that require intricate detail or uncommon dimensions. It can also be molded into specific shapes, so you can order individual pieces that are customised to exact specifications.
Perspex is one of the most affordable, eco-friendly and customisable acrylic cut to size sheets on the market today. Regardless of what your project entails, it’s likely that you can find a color and finish of Perspex that suits your needs.
For further information on cut to size perspex, plastic fabrication, our design and fabrication capabilities, or just general advice on plastic uses and applications, please contact the expert acrylic manufacturers at Plasticut on (03) 9357 6688 or contact us online.