The cast acrylic sheets and extruded acrylic sheets are both types of acrylic materials, but they have different manufacturing processes and properties that make them suitable for various applications. Here are the main differences:
1. **Manufacturing Process:**
- **Cast Acrylic Sheets:** These are produced through a casting process where liquid monomer is poured into a mold and then polymerized to form a solid sheet. This method allows for more precise control over thickness and shape.
- **Extruded Acrylic Sheets:** These are made using an extrusion process where liquid monomer is forced through a die to create a continuous sheet. The material is then cooled and cut to size.
2. **Molecular Structure:**
- **Cast Acrylic:** Has a more uniform molecular structure due to the slower cooling process during casting, which can lead to better optical clarity and less stress in the material.
- **Extruded Acrylic:** Has a slightly more random molecular structure because of the rapid cooling during the extrusion process. This can sometimes result in more internal stresses within the material.
3. **Physical Properties:**
- **Cast Acrylic:** Generally has higher impact resistance and better thermal stability. It also tends to be more flexible and easier to thermoform (shape using heat).
- **Extruded Acrylic:** Often has slightly lower impact resistance and thermal stability compared to cast acrylic. However, it can be more cost-effective and is generally more readily available in a wider range of colors and finishes.
4. **Cost:**
- **Cast Acrylic:** Tends to be more expensive due to the more complex manufacturing process and higher quality output.
- **Extruded Acrylic:** Is typically less expensive and more commonly used for general-purpose applications.
5. **Applications:**
- **Cast Acrylic:** Often preferred for precision applications such as lenses, optical instruments, and custom-shaped parts due to its superior optical clarity and ability to be formed into complex shapes.
- **Extruded Acrylic:** Suitable for a wide range of uses including signage, display cases, and general construction projects where high optical clarity may not be as critical.
In summary, the choice between cast and extruded acrylic depends on the specific requirements of the application, with cast acrylic offering higher performance at a higher cost, and extruded acrylic providing a good balance of properties at a lower cost.
We offer both cast acrylic and extruded acrylic, please tell us the size and thciness you need, we will try our best to meet your needs!
