English
Acrylic plastic is a clear plastic material with excellent strength, stiffness, and clarity that is made into a finished product using a number of different products and mixtures, such as extruded acrylic. Acrylic products are available in a number of different forms depending on their use and application, which include: acrylic sheets, acrylic rods and acrylic tubes, to name just a few.
Welldon New Material is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of high-quality acrylic sheets, with many years of experience in the production of acrylic material.
Let's explore some of the key benefits of acrylic and why it has become a popular choice for a wide range of applications.
Benefits of using acrylics products
Durable and Weather Resistant
Because acrylic sheets and materials are so strong, they are extremely durable, lasting even when exposed to harsh weather and corrosive environments, with little to no damage to shape or color. Certain types of acrylic are specifically designed for outdoor use, and these are often made from customized thermoplastic blends with a stronger surface, often treated with extreme UV resistance for longer life.
Safety
Acrylic sheets are extremely durable and will not weather or fade. With regular maintenance, it will remain beautiful for many years. Plexiglass has the same thermal efficiency as standard glass. It is also UV and moisture resistant, which is why acrylic sheets are perfect for outdoor applications.
Flexibility
Acrylic is more flexible than glass, which means it can be molded into different shapes without cracking or breaking. This makes it a popular choice for designers and architects who want to create unique shapes and structures. It can also be bent or shaped to fit specific applications, meaning it can be used for a wide range of applications.
Insulation
Acrylic sheets, products and materials are thicker than glass and can be made into a variety of shapes and sizes for different applications, as well as having insulating properties. When used correctly in all types of buildings, it can ensure that areas are easily and efficiently kept at the right temperature and often require less heating, meaning less electricity is used, which is not only good for the environment, but also good for the wallet. Some examples of acrylic materials used for insulation purposes include: aircraft interiors, transportation vehicle interior components, equipment enclosures, and kiosk enclosures, just to name a few.
Lightweight
Compared to glass and other types of plastics, acrylics are relatively lightweight and often have much higher strength-to-weight ratios than other materials (some acrylic sheets can be up to 17 times more impact resistant than regular glass). This means that less material can be used to achieve the same results as other materials, which has both cost-saving and environmental advantages. Lighter weight is advantageous when weight is a factor that must be considered in the design of certain projects, and when weight is a factor in the transportation of materials.
Easy to clean and maintain
Due to its strength and smooth surface, acrylic sheets and products are often easier to maintain and clean than other materials, meaning that they will stay looking new for a longer period of time if maintained regularly (this is especially beneficial for outdoor display signage). However, there are a number of things that must be considered when maintaining acrylic to ensure that no damage is caused, some of which are:
Do not use harsh glass cleaners like Windex as it can damage the surface of the glass and alter its chemical composition, causing further damage.
Avoid cleaning products that contain ammonia.
Ensure all cleaning towels are clean and free from any particles or grit as this can damage the surface.
Avoid using paper towels as they are actually quite rough despite looking relatively smooth.
Heavy Weight
Although acrylic sheets and products are lightweight - less than 50 percent of the weight of glass - acrylic products are extremely strong and are well suited for applications requiring heavy-duty materials (especially for outdoor use). Applications such as outdoor signage or pool window glazing, as well as areas with extreme weather conditions, require inherently heavy-duty products, so many acrylics specifically designed for outdoor use are well suited for the job.
Transparency
Acrylic has a similar transparency to glass and is therefore clearly visible, but acrylic can be made in a variety of colors and opacities. This makes acrylic a popular choice for applications where design and aesthetics are critical, such as retail displays or interior design. Acrylic can also be textured to add a unique look and feel to a particular application.
Cost Effective
Finally, acrylic is typically less expensive than glass, making it a more cost-effective choice for many applications. This is especially important for larger projects where costs can add up quickly. Additionally, its durability and longevity means it can be a better long-term investment than other materials that may need to be replaced more frequently.
Overall, acrylic offers many advantages over other materials such as glass. Its safety, durability, flexibility, lightweight, insulation, transparency and cost-effectiveness make it ideal for a wide range of applications, from construction and transportation to retail displays and interior design. If you're considering materials for your next project, acrylic glass is definitely worth considering.
