plastic - Regal Plastics

Transcription

PLASTIC
PLASTICS REFERENCE HANDBOOK
REGAL PLASTIC SUPPLY COMPANY
PLASTICS REFERENCE HANDBOOK
Copyright 1999—2000
Regal Plastic Supply Company,
a division of Regal Supply Company
INTRODUCTION
Established in 1954, Regal Plastic Supply Company is considered one of the foremost
pioneers in the plastic distribution industry. Throughout the years, the innovative “customeroriented plan for success” thinking has become a credible trademark our customers rely on.
Fortifying that philosophy, Regal introduced its Plastic Materials Reference Guide in 1984.
As products and industries continue to evolve, so does this compilation of technical data.
We view providing our customers with tools for effective planning and purchasing as
important as meeting product “supply and demand”. You will find this guide an invaluable
reference source for researching or finding the answer pertaining to your plastic application.
The product information contained herein covers the most commonly used materials; it does
not reflect our total capacity.
True customer service is a thought process not developed overnight. Our experience
and stability in the industry gives Regal the opportunity to assist you in your plastics
endeavors as you utilize staff who are accessible, knowledgeable and resourceful with
regard to all inquiries.
We invite you to visit the Regal Plastic Supply Company location in your vicinity. All
locations maintain generous inventories of plastic sheet, rod, tube, film, and numerous
finished products.
Regal Plastic Supply Company thanks all of our customers for their patronage over the
years. We will continue in our efforts to provide the best in JIT inventory and personal
service. Plastic is in your future and Regal Plastic Supply Company is your best source.
Sincerely yours,
Regal Plastic Supply Company
National Association
2
Administrative Offices and Distribution Centers
CORPORATE OFFICE
N. KANSAS CITY, MO 64116
111 E. 10th Ave.
816-421-6290
800-627-2102
816-421-8206 FAX
DISTRIBUTION CENTERS
N. KANSAS CITY,
MO 64116
WICHITA, KS 67214
DES MOINES, IA 50325
329 North Indiana
316-263-1211
800-444-1211
316-263-4641 FAX
8165 University Blvd.
515-223-8080
800-867-8347
515-223-8062 FAX
JOPLIN, MO 64801
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK 73127
WATERLOO, IA 50707
601 East 9th
417-782-1420
800-444-1420
417-782-8924 FAX
9342 West Reno
405-495-7755
800-444-7755
405-787-3211 FAX
117 Industrial Dr.
319-232-8757
800-373-8757
319-234-6509 FAX
SPRINGFIELD, MO 65802
TULSA, OK 74145
NASHVILLE, TN 37210
1956 East Phelps
417-831-3110
800-444-3110
417-831-1386 FAX
11612 E. 58th St. South
918-249-0775
800-444-2925
918-249-9708 FAX
1055 Elm Hill Pike
615-242-4800
888-615-6155
615-256-5600 FAX
ST. LOUIS, MO 63132
OMAHA, NE 68108
LA CROSSE, WI 54603
1456 Ashby Road
314-427-7722
800-666-0084
314-427-7717 FAX
2324 Vinton
402-344-4446
800-333-4446
402-344-4451 FAX
3160 Airport Road
608-784-2337
608-784-2336 FAX
1500 Burlington
816-471-6390
800-444-6390
816-221-5822 FAX
Visit Regal Plastic Supply Company
on the Worldwide Web:
www.regalplastic.com
REGAL GRAPHICS - FILM DIVISION
NORTH KANSAS CITY,
MO 64116
111 E. 10th Avenue
816-842-1090
800-627-3425
FAX 816-421-0445
NASHVILLE, TN 37210
LA CROSSE, WI 54603
1055 Elm Hill Pike
615-242-8200
888-615-6155
FAX 615-256-5600
3160 Airport Road
608-784-2337
608-784-2336 FAX
SHERWOOD, OR 97140
13565 S.W.
Tualatin-Sherwood Rd.
Building 200
503-625-2262
800-627-3425
503-625-4568 FAX
INTRODUCTION
The Origins of Plastic Materials
Alkylamines
Low density polyethylene
Polyvinyl chloride
Polytetrafluoroethylene
VCM
lene
y
h
t
E
s
Olefin
ne
Propyle
Ethylene oxide derivatives
e
d
i
x
ne O
e
l
y
Plasticizers
h
Et
hols
o
c
l
A
icizer
Polypropylene
Plast
e Oxide
Propylen
Butadiene
Polyurethanes
Resins
Petrol
Crude Oil Naphtha
Phenol
Arom
atics
Benzen
e
Tolu
ene
Xyle
ne
Cumene
Phenolic derivatives
Acetone
Acrylics
Cycl
ohex
a
Par
axy
lene
Adipic acid
ne
Nylon salt
Nylon
Pure terephthalic acid
Polyester Film
6
INTRODUCTION
Preface
Introduction
PLASTIC-(per Webster)- “Any numerous organic, synthetic, or processed materials that are high molecular weight
polymers.”
Polymers are a tribute to man’s creativity and inventiveness. They are truly man-made materials. Like any other material,
they have their origins in nature, in such basic chemical elements as carbon, oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, chlorine, and
sulfur. These elements in turn are extracted from the air, water, gas, oil, coal, or even plant life.
It was man’s inspiration to take these elements and combine them, via various chemical reactions, in an almost unending
series of combinations, to produce the rich variety of materials we know today as plastics.
The possibilities of combining chemical elements to create plastics with different properties are almost endless. It is this
diversity that has made plastics so applicable to such a broad range of end uses and products today.
In the Beginning
Given this kind of versatility and the role that plastics play in modern living, it’s surprising to realize that a little over a
century ago there was no such thing as commercial plastic in the United States. During the 1850's and 60's,
developmental work was going on with hard rubbers and cellulose materials, but the U.S. plastics industry officially dates
its beginnings back to 1868, when a product called Celluloid was created as the first commercial plastic in the U.S. The
development was in response to a competition sponsored by a manufacturer of billiard balls. It came about when a
shortage developed in ivory from which the billiard balls were made, and the manufacturer sought another production
method. Celluloid was one of the materials considered, and the U.S. plastics industry was born.
As has been typical of new plastic materials ever since, Celluloid quickly moved into other markets. The first photographic
film used by Eastman was made of celluloid: producing the first motion picture film in 1882. The material is still in use
today under its chemical name Cellulose nitrate, for making products like eyeglass frames.
Forty years were to pass before the plastics industry took its second major step forward. In 1909, Dr. Leo Hendrik
Baekeland introduced Phenol formaldehyde plastics (or Phenolics as they are more popularly known), the first plastic to
achieve world wide acceptance.
The third big thrust in plastics development took place in the 1920's with the introduction of Cellulose acetate,
ureaformaldehyde, polyvinyl chloride, or Vinyl, and Nylon.
Evolution
In the World War II years of the 1940’s, the demand for plastics accelerated, as did research into new plastics that could
aid in the defense effort.
7
INTRODUCTION
Preface
By the start of the 1950’s plastics were on their way to being accepted by designers and engineers as basic materials,
along with the more conventional ones.
Nylon, Teflon, Acetal, and Polycarbonate became the nucleus of a group in the plastics family known as the engineering
thermoplastics. Their outstanding impact strength and thermal and dimensional stability enabled them to compete directly
with metals. This group has grown since then to include a number of new plastics, as well as improved variations of older
plastics that could similarly qualify for inclusion.
The Monomers & Polymers
Many plastics are derived from fractions of petroleum or gases that are recovered during the refining process. For
example: ethylene monomer, one of the more important feedstocks, or starting materials for plastics, is derived in a
gaseous form from petroleum refinery gas, liquefied petroleum gases, or liquid hydrocarbons. Although petroleum gas
derivatives are not the only basic source used in making feedstocks for plastics, they are among the most popular and
economical in use today. Coal is another excellent source in the manufacturing of feedstocks for plastics.
From these basic sources come the feedstocks we call monomers. The monomer is subjected to a chemical reaction
known as polymerization; it causes the small molecules to link together into ever increasingly long molecules. Chemically,
the polymerization reaction gas turns the monomer into a polymer, and thus a given type of plastic resin.
The Product as We See It
The polymer or plastic resin must next be prepared for use by the processor, who will turn it into a finished product. In
some instances, it is possible to use the plastic resin as it comes out of the polymerization reaction. More often, however,
it goes through other steps which turn it into a form that can be more easily handled by the processor and processing
equipment. The more popular forms of resin for processing are pellet, granule, flake, and powder.
In the hands of the processor, these solids are generally subjected to heat and pressure. They are melted, forced into the
desired shape (sheets, rods, and tubes) and then allowed to cure into a finished product. Resins are most readily
available in their natural color, but by adding coloring agents, most any color can be achieved during the processing.
Plastics are a family of materials, not a single material. Each has its own distinct and special advantages.
Each day brings new plastic compounds, and new uses for the old compounds.
8
INTRODUCTION
Chronology of Plastic
DATE
1868
1909
1926
1926
1927
1927
1929
1935
1936
1936
1938
1938
1938
1938
1939
1939
1942
1942
1943
1943
1945
1947
1948
1949
1954
1956
1957
1957
1959
1962
1962
1964
1964
1964
1964
1965
1965
1970
1973
1975
MATERIAL
ORIGINAL TYPICAL USE
Cellulose Nitrate
Phenol-Formaldehyde
Alkyd
Analine-Formaldehyde
Cellulose Acetate
Polyvinyl Chloride
Urea-Formaldehyde
Ethyl Cellulose
Acrylic
Polyvinyl Acetate
Cellulose Acetate Butyrate
Polystyrene or Styrene
Nylon (Polyamide)
Polyvinyl Acetal
Polyvinylidene Chloride
Melamine-Formaldehyde
Polyester
Polyethylene
Fluorocarbon
Silicone
Cellulose Propionate
Epoxy
Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene
AIlylic
Polyurethane or Urethane
Acetal
Polypropylene
Polycarbonate
Chlorinated Polyether
Phenoxy
Polyallomer
lonomer
Polyphenylene Oxide
Polymide
Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate
Parylene
Polysulfone
Thermoplastic Polyester
Polybutylene
Nitrile Barrier Resins
Eye Glass Frames
Telephone Handsets
Electrical Bases
Terminal Boards
Tooth Brushes, Packaging
Raincoats
Lighting Fixtures
Flashlight Cases
Brush Backs, Displays
Flash Bulb Lining
Irrigation Pipe
Kitchen Housewares
Gears
Safety Glass Interlayer
Auto Seat Covers
Tableware
Boat Hulls
Squeezable Bottles
Industrial Gaskets
Motor Insulation
Automatic Pens and Pencils
Tools and Jigs
Luggage
Electrical Connectors
Foam Cushions
Automotive Parts
Safety Helmets
Appliance Parts
Valves and Fittings
Bottles
Typewriter Cases
Skin Packages
Battery Cases
Bearings
Heavy Gauge Flexible Sheeting
Insulating Coatings
Electrical/Electronic Parts
Electrical/Electronic Parts
Piping
Containers
9
DISCLAIMER
The information contained herein provides product data, suggestions, and
guidelines we believe to be reliable. They are offered in good faith but without
any guarantee, as conditions, type of product, and methods of product use
are beyond our control.
Regal Plastic Supply Company makes no warranties either expressed or
implied and expressly disclaims any implied warranty of fitness for a
particular purpose or procedure.
Sufficient verification and testing to determine the
suitability for their own particular purpose of any
information or products referred to herein, is strongly
recommended.
10
ACRYLIC
Basic Information
Acrylic plastics, introduced in 1936, have an unusual
combination of properties, outstanding weather resistance,
brilliant clarity, “light-piping” and “edge-lighting” qualities,
chemical resistance, smooth, easy-clean surface, and ease
of forming and machining. Compared to all other types of
transparent thermoplastics, acrylic sheet has outstanding
resistance to the damaging effects of sunlight and outdoor
weathering.
These desirable properties of acrylic sheet account for its
wide acceptance for varied end uses such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
boat windshields
camera lenses
commercial aircraft windows
contact lenses
display cases
display fixtures
dome skylights
lighting fixture diffusers and lenses
machine windows
models
outdoor luminous signs
pediatric incubators
street lighting shields
safety guards
transparent equipment
transparent lids
transparent product demonstration
transparent tanks
windows and housings
window glazing
There are four manufacturing processes that produce
acrylic sheeting: cell cast, continuous cast, continuously
manufactured, and extruded.
Each process yields acrylic sheet products with specific
characteristics at varying costs. In addition, all types are
available with value-added features such as ultraviolet
filtering or glare reduction.
Cell Cast
This type of acrylic sheet is made by pouring a methyl
methacrylate mixture between two lites (plates) of glass,
giving the sheet a smooth, glass-like surface. Cell cast
sheets are made one by one and cured in ovens.
There can be slight inconsistencies in the thickness of
the sheet from one end to the other because of the
contraction and weight of the material during the curing
process. Cell cast acrylic provides the clarity of glass at half
the weight and four times the impact resistance.
Continuous Cast
The manufacturing method for continuous cast utilizes
the same material as cell cast, with the material poured
between two stainless steel conveyor belts. Less expensive
than cell cast, it offers more uniform thickness, but less
clarity.
Continuously Manufactured
An economically priced acrylic sheet with optical
properties close to cell cast and uniform thickness.
The manufacturing process involves feeding polymethyl
methacrylate pellets into one end of an extruder. The pellets
are heated to liquid, extruded through a die for an exact
thickness, then laid on highly polished rolls to change from a
liquid to a solid state. The polished rolls simulate the
smoothness of glass, resulting in its high-grade optical
properties.
Continuously manufactured acrylic also offers an
excellent surface quality, free of pitting and internal
contaminants.
Extruded
The manufacturing method is like continuously
manufactured sheeting, except the melted liquid is pulled out
of the die at a given rate. The combination of pulling and die
opening determines the sheet’s thickness.
The least
expensive of the acrylic sheets, optics and thickness are not
as consistent as in other methods of manufacturing.
Thickness of acrylic sheet ranges from 0.060 inches up,
depending on formulation. Cell cast sheet is produced in
sizes as large as 72 inches by 96 inches; continuous process
sheet is available on reels in widths up to 100 inches and
lengths up to 500 feet.
Acrylic sheet is supplied either as preshrunk or unshrunk
sheet. Unshrunk sheet will shrink about 2% in length and
width, and will increase in thickness by about 4% when
heated to forming temperatures and cooled unrestrained.
This shrinkage factor must be considered when cutting sheet
blanks for thermoforming. Preshrunk sheets undergo little or
no shrinkage on heating and cooling.
11
ACRYLIC
Basic Information
With any of these types of acrylic sheet you can specify
ultraviolet filtering, glare-free / matte finish or abrasionresistant coating. Ultraviolet filtering will help keep UV light
from harming any materials subject to fading or aging. UV
radiation, water and oxygen are key components in a chain
reaction that causes color breakdown and material
deterioration. The biggest advancement in acrylic technology
has been ultraviolet-filtering additives which block the harmful
UV rays.
None of these value added features cause loss of light
transmission or a shift in color. In fact, these are only two of
the many misconceptions about acrylic. While some plastics
will yellow over time when exposed to the weather, acrylic
sheet will not. It is inherently a weather-resistant plastic.
While handling can dull acrylic sheet, the material itself
does not haze or film over. Dulling is created by abrasion
from constant, improper cleaning or touching, which produces
tiny hairline scratches. However, if you use proper cleaning
techniques and materials, acrylic will retain its clarity for life.
Knowing which manufacturing process and value-added
features to request, you can order the acrylic sheeting that
suits your application best which saves time and money.
NOTES ON IMPORTED ACRYLIC SHEET
When purchasing imported acrylic sheet your supplier
should be able to answer the following questions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
12
Are there thickness variances? If so, how much?
How consistent is the quality from shipment to shipment?
Is delivery reliable?
What about code approvals?
Is UV absorber available?
Are the colors stable and consistent?
Have there been any experiences with problems of:
- Gluing
- Crazing
- Yellowing
Plexiglas® Acrylic Sheet
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is produced by Elf Atochem
North America, Inc., atoglas™ division. Plexiglas® is a
registered trademark and atoglas™ is a trademark of Elf
Atochem S.A.
In its natural form,
Plexiglas® acrylic
sheet is a crystal clear
(with transparency
equal to optical glass),
lightweight material
having outstanding
weatherability, high
impact resistance,
good chemical resistance, and excellent
thermoformability and
machinability.
The sheet is supplied in general purpose grades and in
a number of special grades formulated to meet specific physical requirements.
Most formulations are supplied in a great variety of
transparent, translucent, and opaque colors as well as
colorless transparent. The material is also supplied in a
number of surface patterns.
ACRYLIC
Plexiglas® G Acrylic Sheet
Premium architectural-grade sheet satisfying the
requirements for all high performance acrylic sheet
applications. Plexiglas® G acrylic sheet is made by a cellcasting process which provides the following characteristics:
best optical-quality, highest long-term design stress, superior
weatherability, ease of fabrication, and the highest degree of
chemical resistance available in an acrylic sheet.
Plexiglas® MC Acrylic Sheet
Plexiglas® MC acrylic sheet is an economical sheet
made by a proprietary process known as melt calendaring. It
offers many of the same high quality features as Plexiglas®
G acrylic sheet. In addition, it has exceptional thickness
tolerance and can be thermoformed to greater detail.
Plexiglas® Q Acrylic Sheet
Designed primarily for use in the sign market,
Plexiglas® Q acrylic sheet is made by the same proprietary
continuous process used to make original Plexiglas® MC
acrylic sheet. This process ensures exceptional surface
finish, optical quality and thickness uniformity. Plexiglas® Q
acrylic sheet has all the attributes of original Plexiglas® MC
acrylic sheet. In addition, it offers enhanced solvent craze
resistance.
Plexiglas® T Acrylic Sheet
Plexiglas® T acrylic sheet combines the beauty of
Plexiglas® MC acrylic sheet with additional toughness
gained from the use of our advanced impact acrylic
chemistry. This union produces the aesthetics desired with
increased toughness. Plexiglas® T acrylic sheet is more
than fifty percent tougher than standard acrylic sheet.
Plexiglas® UVT Acrylic Sheet
Provides same general physical properties as Plexiglas®
G acrylic sheet with increased tramsmittance of UV light in
the wavelengths between 280 and 360 nanometers. Not
recommended for outdoor use or for use in tanning
applications.
Plexiglas® UF-3 Acrylic Sheet
Ultraviolet-filtering formulation of acrylic absorbing all
ultraviolet radiation (390 nanometers and below) as well as a
portion of the relatively harmful visible light in the critical violet
(400-450 nanometers) region. The Plexiglas® UF-3 acrylic
sheet does absorb some visible light which produces a very
faint yellow edge tint. This tint is not objectionable in most
applications.
Ultraviolet-filtering formulation recommended for those
applications in which the slight yellow tint of UF-3 is
objectionable. Plexiglas® UF-4 acrylic sheet does transmit
slightly more UV energy than its counterpart, and, as a result,
it is somewhat less effective in retarding fading or darkening
of colors caused by visible light in the 400 to 500 nanometer
range.
This sheet is an MC grade, ultraviolet-filtering,
formulation filtering the maximum of harmful UV radiation.
Used for framing applications.
Plexiglas® Frosted
Acrylic Sheet
This acrylic sheet is matte finished on one side, smooth
on the other, providing a translucent, frosted look.
NOTE: For product colors, thicknesses and sheet
size availability, see pages 16, 17, and 18.
ACRYLIC
BREAKAGE RESISTANCE
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet has greater impact resistance
than all types of glass. Test samples, for data displayed in
Table I, were one foot square with edges loosely clamped.
Product
Plexiglas Sheet
Nominal thickness
in
mm
2.5
3.0
4.5
6.0
.098
.118
.177
.236
Weight of freefalling steel ball
lb
F50 energy
to break
ft-lb
.25
2.00
2.00
5.00
3.0
4.7
11.1
18.1
Window Glass
Single Strength
Double Strength
.100
.125
.25
.25
0.8
1.8
Plate Glass
Plate Glass
.187
.250
.25
.25
2.0
1.0
Laminated Glass
.250
.25
1.1
Rough Wire Glass
Impact Rough Side
Impact Smooth Side
.250
.250
.25
.25
2.2
0.2
Polished Wire Glass
.250
.25
0.4
Table 1
The hardness of an object striking Plexiglas® acrylic
sheet affects its impact resistance. The air-cannon impact
test gives a practical measure of impact strength that
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet can be expected to display in
service. This procedure measures the velocity and energy
required for a projectile of specified weight and tip radius,
shot from an air cannon, to break a specimen. Test samples
for data in Table 2 are 14 x 20 inch Plexiglas® G acrylic
sheet, with edges tightly clamped.
Nominal
Thickness
in
mm
F-50 energy (ft-lb) to break
impacted with
Baseball
0.32 lb
Steel-tipped dart
0.6 lb, 1/2 in. rad. tip
.118
3.0
24 (47 mph )
5
.236
6.0
84 (84 mph)
6
.354
9.0
113 (105 mph)
27
.472
12.0
224 (147 mph)
40
.708
18.0
390 (104 mph)
53
.944
24.0
505 (220 mph)
68
Table 2
14
Breakage resistance is maximum when the edges of
saw-cut sheets or of drilled holes in the sheet are free of
notches. Saw blades and drill bits that meet manufacturer’s
specifications will provide notchfree edges, but it may be
desirable to finish edges by sanding or scraping, particularly
where the sheet is to be subjected to high impact.
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet has excellent resistance to most
chemicals, including solutions of inorganic alkalies and acids,
such as ammonia and sulfuric acid, and aliphatic
hydrocarbons, such as hexane, octane and VM & P naphtha.
DIMENSIONAL STABILITY
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet will expand and contract with
changes in temperature and humidity. Different temperature
and/or humidity conditions on the inner and outersurfaces of
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet may cause it to bow slightly in the
direction of the higher temperature and/or humidity. This type
of bowing is reversible. The sheet will return to its original flat
state when the temperature and humidity differentials
become zero.
Comparison of Coefficients of Thermal Expansion
Plexiglas vs. Other Materials
Inches/Inch/°F.
Plexiglas
.0000410
Aluminum
.0000129
Copper
.0000091
Steel
.0000063
Plate Glass
.0000050
Pine, along grain
.0000030
Pine, across grain
.0000190
To ensure good performance in environments where
temperature varies widely, Plexiglas® acrylic sheet should be
installed in a channel frame that permits the sheet to expand
and contract freely. The channel frame should be deep
enough for the sheet to contract fully and still stay within the
frame.
Avoid inflexible fasteners such as bolts that do not permit
expansion and contraction. Tapes and sealants that adhere
to both the acrylic sheet and the frame should be sufficiently
extensible to accommodate thermal expansion of both.
ACRYLIC
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet may develop permanent
deformation under long-term continuous loading. This cold
flow characteristic may be minimized by using thicker sheet,
reducing the size of unsupported areas, or using
thermoformed configurations.
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTIVITY
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is an excellent electrical
insulator with a high dielectric constant. This property,
however, causes a static charge on the sheet surface which
attracts dust particles and lint. Antistatic compounds can be
employed when static buildup and high dust concentration
create a cleaning problem.
FORMING
Listed below are various forming methods for use with
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet . For more details on each method
please see Forming Section, pages 36 and 37.
Two-Dimensional
Three-Dimensional
Vacuum Snapback
Vacuum Drawing or Blowing
Manual Stretch
Slip
Plug & Ring
Vacuum Assist Plug & Ring
Blowback
Billow
Ridge
Male/Female
PAINTING
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet can be painted as easily as its
non-plastic counterparts, wood & metal. Detailed section
found on pages 38 and 39.
RESPONSE TO
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
Visible Light Transmittance
In colorless form, Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is as
transparent as the finest optical glass. Its total light
transmittance is 92%, and haze measurement for colorless
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet averages only 1%. The wavelengths
of visible light fall between approximately 400 and 700
nanometers in the electromagnetic spectrum.
In all ordinary thicknesses, the light absorbance of
colorless Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is not significant. Even at a
thickness of one inch, absorbance is less than 0.5%.
Infrared Transmittance
Colorless Plexiglas® acrylic sheet transmits most of the
invisible near-infrared energy in the 700 to 2,800 nanometer
region. All standard formulations of colorless Plexiglas®
acrylic sheet have the same general infrared transmittance
characteristics.
X-Ray Transmittance
Colorless Plexiglas® acrylic sheet readily transmits Xrays in all ordinary thicknesses. Plexiglas® acrylic sheet has
essentially the same X-ray absorption coefficient as water.
Radio Frequency Transmittance
Most formulations of colorless Plexiglas® acrylic sheet
readily transmit standard broadcast and television waves as
well as most radar bands.
High-Energy Radiation
Although Plexiglas® acrylic sheet possesses unusual
resistance to discoloration from exposure to all ordinary light
sources, special sources that emit a combination of intense,
high-energy radiation plus visible light may in time discolor
and even physically degrade Plexiglas® acrylic sheet.
Nuclear Radiation Transmittance
Colorless Plexiglas® G acrylic sheet has the following
nuclear transmittance characteristics:
Alpha rays - generally opaque, exhibiting essentially
100% absorption at all thicknesses.
Beta rays - essentially opaque at thicknesses of 0.334
in. or more.
Gamma rays - transparent to gamma rays in all
ordinary thicknesses. Colorless Plexiglas® acrylic sheet has
about the same gamma ray absorption coefficient as water;
however, high dosage and intensity, as is common in
sterilizing, may cause discoloration or even the loss of some
physical properties.
Neutrons - opaque to neutrons: Plexiglas® acrylic
sheet serves as a neutron stopper with stopping power that
varies directly with hydrogen content (8%).
ACRYLIC
RIGIDITY
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is not as rigid as many other
materials used in building and construction. The sheet may
buckle under load and contract as a result. Users can avoid
problems of this sort by adhering to the following guidelines:
Channels engaging the edges of Plexiglas® acrylic sheet
must be sufficiently deep to allow for contraction from
deflection under load, as well as thermal expansion and
contraction.
Forming Plexiglas® acrylic sheet increases its rigidity.
Wherever practical, specify formed Plexiglas® acrylic
sheet panels in large unsupported areas where wind or
snow loads are possible.
If it is not practical to form Plexiglas® acrylic sheet ,
increasing the thickness of the flat Plexiglas® acrylic
sheet will guarantee greater rigidity.
In other tests, colorless samples exposed outdoors in
Arizona, Florida, and Pennsylvania for 20 years or more
showed no significant discoloration, crazing, surface dulling,
loss of light transmission, or development of haze or turbidity.
WEIGHT
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is less than 50% as heavy as
glass and 43% as heavy as aluminum.
Thickness
in
Weight
lb/sq ft
0.118
0.73
0.177
1.09
0.236
1.46
SERVICE TEMPERATURE
The allowable service temperatures for Plexiglas®
acrylic sheet range up to 200º F, sufficiently high for
fluorescent lighting and exterior applications. But, unless the
designer takes certain precautions, Plexiglas® acrylic sheet
should not be installed in applications with incandescent or
mercury vapor lamps that exceed these limits.
SOUND TRANSMISSION
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet offers sound loss characteristics
that are equal to or better than those of glass.
TRANSPARENCY
In colorless form, Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is as
transparent as the finest optical glass. Its total light
transmission is 92% and its measured haze averages only
1%.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet formulations have a proven
ability to withstand the effects of weather, sun, and a wide
range of temperatures in outdoor use. This permanence
derives from the acrylic resin’s inherent stability. A large
number of clear samples, after more than 10 years of outdoor
exposure in Pennsylvania, show an average of more than
90% light transmission, which represents a loss of only 2%.
Inspection reveals that very few test samples exhibit any
obvious damage due to weathering.
16
DO YOU KNOW?
1948 - translucent Plexiglasis used for an
internally illuminated sign.
ACRYLIC
COLORS AND PATTERNS
Translucent Colors
Sixteen translucent and three semi-opaque
colors are available only in Plexiglas® MC acrylic
sheet. Translucent sheet transmits diffused light
which prevents objects behind the sheet from
being clearly distinguishable. This luminous
quality makes translucent sheet ideal for most sign
applications.
White Translucent Densities
Available in Plexiglas® G and MC acrylic
sheet with seven densities providing a wide range
of varying percentages of light transmittance,
diffusion and lamp hiding power. Unlike the
colored translucents, white translucent densities
vary in light transmittance with the thickness of the
sheet.
Transparent Colors
Ten “see-through” standard colors are
available. Transparent tints vary from color to
color in light transmittance, but the transmittance
of any single color is approximately equal for any
sheet thickness.
Solar Control Tints
Gray and Bronze solar tints were designed as
a solution for solar heat and glare control
problems. Both colors are available in a number
of standard densities. As in transparent color
sheet, the transmittance of any single solar tint
color is approximately equal for any sheet
thickness.
Sheet Patterns
Standard patterns of Plexiglas® acrylic sheet
refract or bend transmitted light by means of
various surface textures. These textures provide
decorative effects, diffuse annoying surface
reflections, and allows privacy by eliminating seethrough. Of the seven pattern choices, 5 are
single-sided; 2 are double-sided.
17
ACRYLIC
COLORS
0.118
Thicknesses
0.177 0.236 0.354
96” Length
0.472
48”
60”
Extra Large Sheets
72”
75” x 100”
48” x 120”
60” x 120”
72” x 120”
Amber - 2422
Black - 2025
Black - 2025
Blue - 2050
Blue - 2051
Blue - 2069
Blue - 2114
Blue - 2424
Blue - 2648
Blue - 3120
Bronze - 2370
Bronze - 2370
Bronze - 2404
Bronze - 2404
Bronze - 2540
Bronze - 2412
Bronze - 2412
Brown - 2418
Gray - 2064
Gray - 2064
Gray - 2074
Gray - 2074
Gray, Neutral - 2094
Gray - Neutral - 2515
Gray - 3001
Green - 2030
Green - 2108
Green - 2111
Green - 3030 (edge color)
Green - 3030 (edge color)
Ivory - 2146
Orange - 2119
Red - 2129
Red - 2157
Red - 2283
Red - 2415
Red - 2423
Red - 2423
Red - 2662
Red - 2711
Red - 2904
Red - 2793
White - W2067
White - W2447
White - W2447
White - W7138
White - W7328
White - W7328
White - W7420
White - W7508
White - 3015
Yellow - 2016
Yellow - 2037
Yellow - 2208
Yellow - 2465
RED - Premium Plexiglas® G: Made-to-order basis BLUE - Standard Plexiglas® MC
18
- sheet size available only in 0.177” GREEN - Standard Plexiglas® G
ACRYLIC
PRODUCT
0.060 0.080
0.100 0.118 0.177 0.220 0.236 24” x 48”
48” x 96”
72” x 96”
Plexiglas® G Patterns
(Colorless)
P-4
P5
P-95*
*NOTE - P-95 is available in all Plexiglas G colors on a made-to-order basis.
Plexiglas® MC
Patterns
(Colorless)
P-12
**
DP-30
DP-32
Non-Glare
**NOTE - pallets only.
Plexiglas® Frosted Acrylic Sheet is available in
Plexiglas® Q Acrylic Sheet is available on reels
clear with colors considered on a special request
basis. Run-to-size in not available with this product.
and as palletized sheet stock, in colorless and sign
white in the following thicknesses and sizes:
Thicknesses: .118, .177, .220, .236, .354
Thicknesses - .118, .150, .177, .220
Standard Sheet Sizes: 48” x 96”; 60” x 96”;
72” x 96”; 51” x 100”; 63” x 100”; 75” x 100”;
72” x 100”*
Palletized sheet stock - from 30” to 108” (9’)
* - This sheet size is only available in .354 (9.0mm)
thickness.
EXTRA LARGE SHEETS
are available in all Standard
Plexiglas® MC colors on a
Custom Order basis only.
This excludes Bronze 2412,
White W2447, & White
W7328 which have standard
availability in these sizes.
Plexiglas® T Acrylic Sheet is available in
colorless, white and black, in the following
thicknesses and sizes:
Thicknesses
Clear - .080, .098, .118, .150, .177, .220, .236
Colors - .118, .177, .236
Standard Sheet Sizes:
Clear - 48” x 96”; 60” x 96”; 72” x 96”; 51” x 100”
Colors - 48” x 96”; 60” x 96”; 72” x 96”
19
ACRYLIC
PRODUCT CODE APPROVALS
All grades and colors of Plexiglas® acrylic sheet are
classified as a CC-2 light transmitting thermoplastic material
under the model building codes. Typical values for
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet are: self-ignition temperature (ASTM
D1929) in a range of 740° to 880°F; smoke density rating
(ASTM D2843) between 4 to 12%; and horizontal burn rate
(ASTM D635) between 1.1 to 1.9 in/min. Note: these are
small-scale tests and should not be used to predict how a
material will behave in actual fire.
Copies of the approvals of Plexiglas® acrylic sheet
under various codes are available on request as are the
reports on the status of Plexiglas® acrylic sheet under
Federal Government regulations.
Approvals and research recommendations of general
interest include:
•
•
•
•
ICBO Research Recommendation No. 1084
•
New York City Department of Water Supply, Gas &
Electricity approval for use in signs and lighting fixtures
•
New York City MEA 107-69-M, MEA 146-80-M, MEA
139-80-M
•
California Fire Marshall File No. A2560-007
BOCA Report No. 89-32
SBCC Report No. 9082
New York City Board of Standards and Appeals
Calendars 444-60SM, 657-63-SM
Plexiglas® acrylic sheet is not approved as an
interior finish material under any building code.
Both Plexiglas G and MC acrylic sheet, colorless and all
colors, are listed as recognized components by Underwriters
Laboratories with a UL flame class of 94HB. These products
are subjected to one or more of the following tests; ultra-violet
light, water exposure or immersion in accordance with UL
746C, where the acceptability for outdoor use is to be
determined by Underwriters Laboratories.
ACRYLIC
Implex® Impact Acrylic Sheet
Implex® Impact Acrylic Sheet, produced by Elf Atochem
North America, Inc., atoglas™ division, offers good impact
resistance along with excellent weatherability, clarity, and
processing characteristics. Implex® is a registered trademark
and atoglas™ is a trademark of Elf Atochem S.A.
Developed primarily for the sign industry, Implex® Impact
Acrylic Sheet combines the well-known weatherability of
acrylic with proprietary impact-resistant chemistry, eliminating
haze, surface dullness, and progressive yellowing.
Processing advantages include:
• Shorter thermoforming cycles
• Lower forming temperatures
• Wider forming temperature windows
BREAKAGE RESISTANCE
Test
Cast
Acrylic
Implex®
Sheet
Sign-Grade
Polycarb
Falling Dart, ft-lb,
73°F 6” x 6” x 1/4”
radius, dart tip
Unpainted
Standard Paint
Impact Paint
1
1
1
6
2
7
>80
>80
>80
Unnotched Charpy,
4” span, ft-lb/1/2” x
1” section
Ambient
32°F
0°F
Notched Izod, ftlb/1/2” x 1” section
Ambient
32°F
0°F
3
3
3
11
9
4
no break
no break
no break
THERMOFORMING
Test
Cast
Acrylic
Polycarbonate
Implex®
Sheet
350
375
325
290-350
370-415
275-350
12
5
12
6
12
4
Cooling Cycle,
minutes
2.5
1
2
Part Removal
Temp. (°F)
205
275
190
Forming Time,
seconds
75
15
50
14.5
7.5
13
7
14
6
Optimum Forming
Temperature (°F)
Form. Temp.
Range
(°F)
Heating Cycle
Hot Air, minutes
Infrared, minutes
Total Forming
Cycle
Hot Air, minutes
Infrared, minutes
WEATHERABILITY
Light Transmittance
Implex® Impact Acrylic Sheet is comparable to cast
acrylic sheet in performance and substantially better than
polycarbonate sheet.
Percent Haze
0.4
0.4
0.2
0.6
—
—
16
16
16
Values reported are averages and should not be used for
specification purposes. Tests performed on 0.118” specimens.
As with light transmittance, Implex® Impact Acrylic Sheet
characteristics pertaining to haze are very similar to those of
standard acrylic sheet and significantly outperforms
polycarbonate.
PRODUCT AVAILABILITY
PAINTING
Implex® Impact Acrylic Sheet is paintable using standard
acrylic-based paints and screen inks. See Painting Section,
pages 38 and 39.
RIGIDITY
Implex® Impact Acrylic Sheet exhibits a flexural modulus
near that of cast acrylic sheet, which is considerably higher
than polycarbonate.
.093
9
9
9
9
60” x 96’
9
9
9
9
9
72” x 96”
9
9
9
9
9
51” x 100”
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
63” x 100”
75” x 100”
9
.354
9
48” x 96”
9
.118 .150 .177 .220 .236
9
Colors: Available in Standard Plexiglas® MC selection. See
chart on page 17.
ACRYLIC
ACRYLITE® acrylic sheet
ACRYLITE® acrylic sheet and its various formulations
are products of CYRO Industries, a joint venture of the US
company CYTEC Industries, and Röhm GmbH of the
Federal Republic of Germany.
ACRYLITE® GP 1 1/4” acrylic sheet
ACRYLITE® GP acrylic sheet
ACRYLITE® GAR acrylic sheet
Cell cast produced acrylic sheet which provides excellent
optical characteristics, thickness tolerances, light stability,
and low internal stress levels for consistent performance.
The following sheets are value-added, cell cast
produced:
ACRYLITE® OP-1 acrylic sheet
This acrylic sheet transmits a high level of ultraviolet
light making it preferred for use in many scientific applications
where a broader spectrum of sunlight transmission is desired.
Filtering 98% of the ultraviolet wavelengths between 250
and 400 nanometers makes this sheet a good choice for
display cases and protective glazing. This particular sheet
has an almost water white edge color giving a high quality
appearance.
This acrylic sheet is designed for applications requiring
high UV transmission and strong resistance to degradation by
UV light. The formulation of this particular acrylic sheet
allows it to transmit a high percentage of light in the UV-A
and UV-B regions. It begins low level transmission at 250
nanometers and steadily increases. At 300 nanometers
transmission level is typically at 80% increasing to 89% at
380 nanometers (the upper end of the UV region). It is an
excellent material for use in indoor suntanning equipment.
ACRYLITE® GP P-95 acrylic sheet
Produced with matte finish on one side, this acrylic
sheet reduces reflected light. In direct contact with an
object, transparent clarity is achieved. ACRYLITE® GP DP9 acrylic sheet provides a two-sided matte finish giving a
sandblasted look or the appearance of frosted glass.
ACRYLITE® 237 acrylic sheet
Specially formulated with an added proprietary flame
retardant, this sheet offers outstanding aging, corrosion and
break resistance. A transparent material, it is recommended
for use as a noise-control material for highways.
22
This non-laminated acrylic sheet is colorless, transparent
and listed as a UL 752 Level 1 bullet-resistant glazing
material.
This acrylic sheet offers the added benefit of abrasion
and chemical resistant coating on one or both sides. The
abrasion resistant coating significantly increases the service
life of the sheet products. ACRYLITE GAR sheet is produced
by the cell cast method.
This is an aerospace grade crosslinked acrylic sheet
certified to meet or exceed Military Specification MIL-P8184F, as a Type II, Class 2 material. This specification
applies to optical quality cast acrylic sheet , which is superior
to conventional acrylic sheet in craze and heat resistance,
and water absorption.
ACRYLITE® GMS acrylic sheet
This aerospace grade acrylic sheet is certified to meet or
exceed Military Specification MIL-P-5425E, Type II, Finish A,
“Plastic Sheet, Acrylic, Heat Resistant.”
ACRYLITE® GP Sheet Fluorescents
ACRYLITE® GP F acrylic sheet
This fluorescent acrylic sheet is recommended for indoor
uses only.
ACRYLITE® GP FL acrylic sheet
Offering color uniformity of surface and edge, this
fluorescent acrylic sheet has an extended fluorescent life and
excellent thermoformability.
ACRYLITE® GP FLW acrylic sheet
This sheet is formulated as a weatherable fluorescent
sheet which can be used in outdoor signs and special effect
applications.
ACRYLIC
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Exhibits excellent resistance to many chemicals
including:
• solutions of inorganic alkalies such as ammonia
• dilute acids such as sulfuric acid
• aliphatic hydrocarbons such as hexane
When designing, the large coefficient of expansion, 3
times that of aluminum and 8 times glass, must be taken into
consideration. A 48” panel will expand and contract
approximately .002” for each degree F change in
temperature. In outdoor use, a sheet can expand and
contract approximately 3/16”. Therefore, sash rabbets must
be of sufficient depth to allow for both the expansion and
contraction. Although the material will not shrink with age,
some shrinkage occurs when heated to forming temperature.
This material is subject to water absorption when
exposed to high relative humidities. Dimensional changes
occuring at relative humidites of 100%, 80%, and 60% are
0.6%, 0.4%, and 0.2%.
SERVICE TEMPERATURE
Service temperatures range from -40°F (-40°C) up to
+200°F (93°C), depending on the application. It is
recommended that temperatures not exceed 180°F for
continuous service, or 200°F for short intermittent use.
Components should not be exposed to high heat sources,
such as high wattage incandescent lamps, unless the
finished product is ventilated to permit the dissipation of heat.
STRENGTHS AND STRESSES
Possessing a tensile strength of 10,000 psi (69 MPa) at
room temperature (ASTM D638), stress crazing in acrylic
sheet can be caused by continuous loads below this value.
For most applications, continuously imposed design loads
should not exceed 1,500 psi (10.4 MPa).
There is a gradual loss of tensile strength as the
temperature approaches the maximum recommended for
continuous service, 180°F (82°C).
Localized, concentrated stresses must be avoided. Due
to expansion and contraction, large sheets should never be
fastened with bolts, but rather installed in frames.
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
FABRICATION
TRANSPARENCY
Exhibits a higher surface resistivity than most plastic
materials and is considered a good insulator.
See detailed section, pages 32 through 35.
FORMING
See detailed section, pages 36 and 37.
PAINTING
RIGIDITY
Under wind load, a sheet will bow and foreshorten as a
result of deflection. In glazing applications, the maximum
wind load must be considered when determining thickness of
the panel and the depth and width of the rabbet.
Rigidity is increased and deflection minimized when the
sheet is formed into corrugated or domed shapes.
Sheets, particularly large and flat, must be sufficiently
supported to avoid deformation due to continuous loads such
as snow, or its own weight. Consult with your Regal Plastic
Supply representative for a particular application.
Acrylic sheet is considered a better insulator than glass
with a 10% lower heat transfer value.
Colorless, ACRYLITE® GP acrylic sheet has a light
transmittance of 92%.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Acrylic offers excellent weather resistance as compared
to other types of plastics. Deterioration due to sun, cold,
sudden temperature changes, salt water spray, etc., are
avoided due to the inherent stability of acrylic.
WEIGHT
Half the weight of glass, and 43% the weight of
aluminum, one square foot of 1/8” (3.0 mm) thick acrylic
sheet weighs less than 3/4 pound (1/3 kilogram).
For product color and size availability see page 25.
ACRYLIC
ACRYLITE® FF acrylic sheet
A continuously manufactured acrylic sheet which has the
same transparency, light weight, weather resistance and
rigidity as cell cast sheet.
The following sheets are produced by the CYRO
proprietary continuously manufactured method:
ACRYLITE® FF P-99 acrylic sheet
Acrylic sheet with a matte-finished, non-glare surface
that can be painted or screenprinted. This product is widely
used in the picture framing industry.
ACRYLITE® OP-3 P-99 acrylic sheet
These two acrylic sheets were developed to meet the
special needs of the picture frame industry. Both offer
ultraviolet filtering, light weight, and ease of fabrication.
ACRYLITE OP-3 P-99 sheet provides a matte-finished, nonglare surface.
ACRYLITE® FFV acrylic sheet
Primarily used for outdoor patio furniture, this acrylic
sheet has a medium grain texture and provides 69% light
transmission.
ACRYLITE® FFX acrylic sheet
Acrylic sheet typically used for cutting boards and
chairmats. It provides 66% light transmission and has a
decorative stippled texture.
ACRYLITE® AR acrylic sheet
This acrylic sheet offers the added benefit of abrasion
and chemical resistant coating on one or both sides. The
abrasion resistant coating significantly increases the service
life of the sheet product.
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Exhibits excellent resistance to many chemicals
including:
• solutions of inorganic alkalies such as ammonia
• dilute acids such as sulfuric acid
• aliphatic hydrocarbons such as hexane
When designing, the large coefficient of expansion, 3
times that of aluminum and 8 times glass, must be taken into
consideration. A 48” panel will expand and contract
approximately .002” for each degree F change in
temperature. In outdoor use, a sheet can expand and
contract approximately 1/4”. Therefore, sash rabbets must
be of sufficient depth to allow for both the expansion and
contraction. Although the material will not shrink with age;
some shrinkage occurs when heated to forming temperature.
This material is subject to water absorption when
exposed to high relative humidities. Dimensional changes
occuring at relative humidites of 100%, 80%, and 60% are
0.5%, 0.3%, and 0.2%.
Acrylic sheet is a good insulator with surface resistivity
higher than that of most plastics.
FABRICATION
FORMING
PAINTING
RIGIDITY
Under wind load, a sheet will bow and foreshorten as a
result of deflection. In glazing applications, the maximum
wind load must be considered when determining thickness of
the panel and the depth and width of the rabbet.
Rigidity is increased and deflection is minimized when
the sheet is formed into corrugated or domed shapes.
Sheets, particularly large and flat, must be sufficiently
supported to avoid deformation due to continuous loads such
as snow, or its own weight.
ACRYLIC
SERVICE TEMPERATURE
Service temperatures range from -30°F (-34°C) up to
+190°F (+88°C), depending on the application. It is
recommended that temperatures not exceed 160°F (71°C)
for continuous service, or 190°F (88°C) for short intermittent
use. Components should not be exposed to high heat
sources, such as high wattage incandescent lamps, unless
the finished product is ventilated to permit the dissipation of
heat.
STRENGTHS AND STRESSES
Possessing a tensile strength of 10,000 psi (69 MPa) at
room temperature (ASTM D638), stress crazing in acrylic
sheet can be caused by continuous loads below this value.
For glazing applications, continuously imposed design loads
should not exceed 1,500 psi (10.4 MPa). Design loads for
applications subject to continuous loading should not exceed
750 psi (5.2 MPa) at 73°F (23°C).
There is a gradual loss of tensile strength as the
temperature approaches the maximum recommended for
continuous service, 160°F (71°C).
Localized, concentrated stresses must be avoided. Due
to expansion and contraction, large sheets should never be
fastened with bolts, but rather installed in frames.
Acrylic sheet is considered a better insulator than glass
with a 10% lower heat transfer value.
TRANSPARENCY
Colorless, ACRYLITE® FF acrylic sheet has a light
transmittance of 92%.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Acrylic offers excellent weather resistance as compared
to other types of plastics. Deterioration due to sun, cold,
sudden temperature changes, salt water spray, etc., are
avoided due to the inherent stability of acrylic.
WEIGHT
Acrylic sheet is half the weight of glass and 43% the weight
of aluminum.
For product color and size availability see page 26.
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE CHART
ACRYLITE® GP acrylic sheet and ACRYLITE® FF acrylic sheet
FF
GP
FF
GP
Acetic Acid (5%)
CHEMICAL
LR
R
Hydrogen Peroxide (3%)
R
R
Acetic Acid (Glacial)
N
N
Hydrogen Peroxide (28%)
LR
LR
Isooctane
N
Isopropyl Alcohol
Acetic Anhydride
Acetone
N
CHEMICAL
N
R
LR
LR
Ammonium Chloride
R
R
Kerosene
R
R
Ammonium Hydroxide (10%)
R
R
Lacquer Thinner
N
N
Ammonium Hydroxide (Conc.)
R
R
Methyl Alcohol (30%-FF)(50%GP)
LR
LR
N
Aniline
N
N
Methyl Alcohol (100%)
N
Battery Acid
R
R
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
N
N
Benzene
N
N
Methylene Chloride
N
N
R
Butyl Acetate
N
N
Mineral Oil
Calcium Chloride (Sat.)
R
R
Naphtha (VM%P)
R
Calcium Hypochlorite
R
R
Nitric Acid (10%)
R
R
Carbon Tetrachloride
LR
N
Nitric Acid (40%)
LR
LR
Chloroform
N
N
Nitric Acid (Conc.)
N
N
Chromic Acid (40%-GP)
LR
N
Oleic Acid
R
R
Citric Acid (10%)
R
R
Olive Oil
R
R
R
Cottonseed Oil (Edible)
R
R
Phenol Solution (5%)
N
N
Detergent solution (Heavy Duty)
R
R
Soap Solution (Mild dish soap)
R
R
Diesel Oil
R
R
Sodium Carbonate (2%)
R
R
Diethyl Ether
N
N
Sodium Carbonate (20%)
R
R
Dimethyl Formamide
N
N
Sodium Chloride (10%)
R
R
Dioctyl Phthalate
N
N
Sodium Hydroxide (1%)
R
R
Ethyl Acetate
N
N
R
R
Ethyl Alcohol (30%-FF)(50%-GP)
LR
LR
R
R
Ethyl Alcohol (95%)
N
N
Sodium Hypochlorite (5%)
R
R
Ethylene Dichloride
N
N
Sulfuric Acid (3%)
R
R
Ethylene Glycol
R
R
Sulfuric Acid (30%)
R
R
2-Ethylhexyl Sebacate
R
Sulfuric Acid (Conc.)
N
N
Formaldehyde (40%)
R
Toluene
N
N
R
Gasoline (regular,leaded)
LR
LR
Transformer Oil
R
Glycerine
R
R
Trichloroethylene
N
N
Heptane
R
R
Turpentine
R
LR
Hexane (commercial grade)
R
R
Water (Distilled)
R
R
Hydrochloric Acid
R
R
Xylene
N
N
Hydrofluoric Acid (25%-FF)(40%GP)
N
N
R = Resistant
ACRYLITE GP sheet and ACRYLITE FF sheet withstand this substance for long periods
at temperatures up to 120°F (49°C).
LR = Limited Resistance
ACRYLITE GP sheet and ACRYLITE FF sheet resist the action of this substance for
short periods at room temperatures. The resistance for a particular application must be
determined.
N = Not Resistant
ACRYLITE GP sheet and ACRYLITE FF sheet are not resistant to this substance.
Exposure will cause damage in some manner.
NOTE: Plastic Materials can be attacked by chemicals in several ways. The methods of
fabrication and/or conditions of exposure of acrylic sheet, as well as the manner in which the
chemicals are applied, can influence the final results even for “R” coded chemicals.
ACRYLIC
COLOR REFERENCE TABLE
Code
Color
ACRYLITE
Sheet
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
C
C
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
C
C
C
C
C
S
S
S
S
Black
Black
Black, Hi-Gloss
Blue
Blue
Blue
Blue
Blue
Blue
Brown
Coral
Fluoresc. Green*
Fluoresc. Red*
Fluoresc. Yellow*
Glass Green
Gold
Green
Green
Green
Green
Green
Ivory
Red
Red
Red
Red
137-0
199-0
199 HG*
605-0
606-0
607-1
613-0
655-0
693-0
324-0
206-0
564-9
216-4
411-5
5110-9**
455-8
506-0
507-0
518-0
519-0
534-0
047-2
202-0
205-0
205 HG
207-0
Code
Color
S
S
S
C
C
C
C
C
S
S
C
C
C
S
S
C
C
S
S
S
S
S
C
C
C
Red
Red
Red
Red
Red
Red
Orange
Orange
Rust
Transp. Amber
Transp. Amber
Transp. Amber
Transp. Blue
Transp. Blue
Transp. Bronze
Transp. Bronze
Transp. Bronze
Transp. Bronze
Transp. Bronze
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
ACRYLITE
Sheet
209-0
211-1
217-0
218-0
248-0
278-0
303-0
338-1
262-0
408-5
422-1
436-4
625-5
668-0
126-4*
131-2*
145-5
146-7
311-1*
103-2*
104-1*
115-0
140-3
141-5
142-1
Thicknesses: 0.060” to 2.0”
Sheet Sizes: 40 standard sizes from 36” x 48” to 72” x 100”
Exotic Edge Colors
Thicknesses: 0.118”, 0.177”, 0.236’, 0.354”, 0.472”, 0.708”,
0.944”
Thicknesses: 0.060”, 0.080”, 0.118”, 0.177”, 0.236”, 0.250”,
0.354”
Sheet Sizes: 48” x 72” or 96”, 72” x 96”
Thicknesses: 0.100”, 0.125”, 0.150”, 0.170”, 0.187”, 0.250”
Sheet Sizes: 48” x 72” or 96”, 60” x 84”, 72” x 96”
ACRYLITE® GP P-95 acrylic sheet
ACRYLITE® GP DP-9 acrylic sheet
Thicknesses: 0.118”, 0.177”, 0.236”, 0.354”, 0.472”
Sheet Sizes: 48” x 72” or 96”, 60” x 84”, 72” x 96”
26
Code
Color
ACRYLITE
Sheet
C
C
C
C
S
S
S
C
C
S
S
C
S
S
S
S
S
S
C
C
S
S
S
S
S
C
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
Transp. Gray
Transp. Green
Transp. Green
Transp. Green
Transp. Red
Transp. Red
Transp. Red
Transp. Yellow
Turquoise
Violet
White
White, Hi-Gloss
White
White
White
White
White
White
White
White
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
Yellow
143-4
144-7
182-2
508-7
545-2
546-7
210-0
257-0
257-HG
430-7
614-0
702-0
015-2*
020HG**
020-4
048-2
049-3
051-6
054-3
076-0
030-7
097-0
406-1
407-2
424-3
432-2
CODE:
S Standard Color: Stocked in the
following sizes:
ACRYLITE GP sheet - 48” x 72”; 48” x 96”; 0.118
(3mm); 0.177 (4.5mm); 0.236 (6mm)
ACRYLITE FF sheet - 48” x 96”; 0.118 (3mm);
0.177 (4.5mm)
Other sheet sizes and thicknesses
(ACRYLITE FF acrylic sheet only) are
available in standard package quantities.
See your plastics’ distributor for pricing and
availability.
Note A - All transparent gray or bronze
colors can be used for SOLAR
CONTROL APPLICATIONS.
Note B - Black No. 137-0 is only available
in thicknesses of 0.295, 0.354,
0.472, 0.591, 0.708, 0.944, and 1.5.
Note C - Black No. 199-0 is also available in
thicknesses of 0.295, 0.354, 0.472.
*
- Also available in 0.354 & 0.472.
**
- ONLY available in 0.354 & 0.472.
ACRYLITE GP FL sheet is available in 6
colors: Blue 6122-8; Green 5119-8,
Orange 3100-5, Red, dark 2123-2;
Red, light 2124-3, Yellow 468-7.
ACRYLITE GP FLW sheet is available in 2
colors: Red 2130-2; Yellow 3105-5
C Custom Color: Can be manufactured to
order in metric or imperial thicknesses,
subject to minimum order requirements and
surcharge. (ACRYLITE GP sheet custom
colors only).
* - Indoor Use Only
- ACRYLITE GP sheet only
- ACRYLITE FF sheet only
Thicknesses: 0.500”, 0.750”
Sheet Size: 48” x 96”
Thickness: 1.25”
Sheet Sizes: 48”, 60” or 72” x 96”
Thicknesses: 0.060”, 0.080”, 0.098”, 0.118”, 0.177”,
0.236”, 0.354”, 0.472”, 0.625”
Sheet Sizes:
ACRYLITE AR acrylic sheet - 48” or 60” x 96”
ACRYLITE GAR acrylic sheet - up to 60” x 120”
ACRYLITE® GMS acrylic sheet
Thicknesses: 0.060”, 0.080”, 0.100”, 0.125”, 0.150”,
0.187”, 0.220”, 0.250”, 0.312”, 0.375”, 0.500”
Sheet Sizes:
ACRYLITE 249 acrylic sheet - 36” x 48”, 40” x 50”, 48” x
60”, 72” or 96”, 60” x 72” or 96”, 72” x 72” or 96”
ACRYLITE GMS acrylic sheet - 36” x 48”, 48” x 50”, 72” or
96”, 60” x 72” or 96”, 72” x 96”
ACRYLIC
Thicknesses: 0.118”, 0.177”, 0.236”, 0.354”, 0.472”
Sheet Sizes: 48” and 72” x 96”
ACRYLITE® GP FLW acrylic sheet
Thicknesses: 0.188”, 0.177”, 0.236”
Sheet Sizes: 48” and 72” x 96”
Thicknesses: 0.060”, 0.080”, 0.090”, 0.098”, 0.118”, 0.150”,
0.177”, 0.220”, 0.236”, 0.354”, 0.472”, 0.708”, 0.944”.
Extra thick: 0.354” and 0.472”
Sheet Sizes: 48”, 60” and 72” x 96”, 49” x 97”, 51” x 100”,
100” x 100”, 125” and 150”
ACRYLITE® FF P-99 acrylic sheet
Thicknesses: 0.060”, 0.080”, 0.098” and 0.118”
Sheet Sizes: 48” x 96”
ACRYLITE® OP-3 P-99 acrylic sheet
Thicknesses: 0.098” and 0.118”
ACRYLITE® FFV acrylic sheet
ACRYLITE® FFX acrylic sheet
Thicknesses: 0.118”, 0.177”, 0.220”
• ANSI Z 97.1 for Safety Glazing Materials Used in
•
•
 ICBO Evaluation Services, Inc., Evaluation Report
# 3715
CC2 Classification for ACRYLITE
AR and GAR sheets
 SBCCI PST & ESI Evaluation Report # 95112B
City of Los Angeles, Research Report RR 24392
Wisconsin Material Approval, Approval # 950043-L
NY City MEA # 144-80-M for ACRYLITE GP sheet
MEA # 145-80-M for ACRYLITE FF sheet
 Consumer Products Safety Commission, Safety
Standard for Architectural Glazing Materials, 16
CFR 1201, Categories 1 & 11
• ANSI Z 26.1 chemical resistance as specified by this
American National Standards Institute.
• ACRYLITE GP 1 1/4” acrylic sheet is UL listed (UL 752)
as a Bullet Resistant Glazing Material, Level 1
FIRE PRECAUTIONS
ACRYLITE GP sheet and ACRYLITE FF sheet are
combustible thermoplastics. Precautions should be taken to
protect the material from flames and high heat sources.
Acrylite GP acrylic sheet usually burns rapidly to completion if
not extinguished. The products of combustion, if sufficient air
is present, are carbon dioxide and water. However, in many
fires sufficient air will not be available and toxic carbon
monoxide will be formed, as it is from other combustible
materials. We urge good judgement in the use of this
versatile material and recommend that building codes be
followed carefully to ensure it is used properly.
Buildings
ANSI Z 26.1, AS-4, 5, 6 & 7 for Safety Glazing Materials
for Glazing Motor Vehicles
Uniform Building Codes, for use as a Light Transmitting
Plastic:
 See BOCA Evaluation Serivces, Inc., Research
Report # 96-75
27
ACRYLIC
Lucite® Acrylic Sheet
Manufactured by Ineos Acrylics, Lucite® cast acrylic sheet,
produced from methyl methacrylate monomer, has outstanding
optical properties, excellent weather resistance, uniform
caliper control, and high impact resistance. It displays
excellent resistance to warpage, cracks, scratches, blisters,
voids, foreign matter, and other defects which may affect
appearance or serviceability.
Lightweight and easily
fabricated, Lucite® cast acrylic sheet is used where safety,
weight, optical clarity, and long-term retention of properties are
important. Lucite® continuous cast acrylic sheet is available in
linear (L), crosslinked (XL), and value-added formulations.
NOTE: Lucite® XL acrylic sheet, due to its crosslinked
structure, requires a two component cement. Weld-On 40 or
Versilok 505 have proven to be effective adhesives for joining
Lucite® XL acrylic sheet to itself. These adhesives are also
recommended for use in adhering Lucite® XL acrylic sheet to
other plastics and wood. For adhesion to metal, Weld-On 10
is suggested, although the resulting joint is white.
LUCITE® L Acrylic Sheet
FORMING
LUCITE® XL Acrylic Sheet
OPTICS
A crosslinked continuous cast acrylic sheet primarily used
in reinforced laminated structures because of its improved
solvent resistance, outstanding surface appearance, and durability.
Lucite® cast acrylic sheet has exceptionally low caliper
variation which ensures consistent quality and very low
optical distortion. Clear Lucite® acrylic sheet provides 9293% light transmittance as compared to 89% for plate glass.
BREAKAGE RESISTANCE
PAINTING
A linear continuous cast acrylic sheet generally used for
glazing and skylight applications.
Lucite® cast acrylic sheet has significantly higher
breakage resistance compared to traditional glazing materials.
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Lucite® cast acrylic sheet is unaffected by a wide variety of
chemicals and cleaning agents, including diluted solutions of
acids and alkalies, petroleum oils, aliphatic hydrocarbons and
dilute alcohols. However, gasoline, chlorinated solvents,
acetone, or denatured alcohol do tend to soften the surface of
acrylic and may cause crazing.
FABRICATION
Lucite® acrylic sheet is a much better thermal insulator
than glass. The rate of heat transfer through glass ("K" factor)
is four times greater than that through Lucite® sheet.
The overall transmission coefficient or “U” factor for
Lucite® sheet is better than that for glass as shown in the
following table.
LUCITE®
U-Factor for Vertical Windows
(BTU/hr. sq. ft./°F)
LUCITE® versus Other Building Materials
Inches/Inch/°F
Winter Heat Loss1
Summer Heat Gain2
LUCITE®
Thickness
1/8” 3/16” 1/4” ( 1/8” 3/16” 1/4” (
(.125 (.188) .250) (.125) (.188) .250)
LUCITE®
0.0000390
Single Glazed
1.06
1.01
0.96
0.98
0.93
0.89
Aluminum
0.0000129
0.52
0.49
0.56
0.53
0.50
0.0000063
Double Glazed
1/4” air space
0.55
Steel
Float Glass
0.0000050
Double Glazed
1/2” air space
0.47
0.45
0.43
0.50
0.48
0.45
1
2
15 mph wind velocity
7.5 mph wind velocity
ACRYLIC
Lucite® Acrylic Sheet
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Lucite® acrylic sheet is outstanding in its ability to
withstand continuous exposure to sun and ultraviolet
radiation.
LUCITE® L / LUCITE® XL Acrylic Sheets
Clear Lucite® acrylic sheet meets or exceeds the
properties and quality control provisions of Federal
Specification L-P-391D; Lucite® L acrylic sheet meets
Type 1 (general purpose material having ultraviolet lightabsorbing properties).
Lucite® L acrylic sheet complies with ANSI Z97.1a-1994
architectural glazing standard. Due to variations in local
building codes, specific building code information should
be requested from your plastic distributor or acrylic sheet
manufacturer.
Lucite® acrylic sheet complies with Consumer Product
Safety Commission safety standard CPSC 16 CFR 1201
for architectural glazing and can be used in Category I
and Category II products.
Clear Lucite® L acrylic sheet meets the requirements of
ASTM D 4802 Category A-2, Finish 1, Type UVA
WEIGHT
Lucite® acrylic sheet is 50% lighter than glass and 43%
lighter than aluminum.
Thickness
(in.)
Calculated
Weight/Sq. Ft.
0.118
0.75 lb.
0.177
1.10 lb.
0.236
1.45 lb.
LUCITE® CP Acrylic Sheet
A continuously manufactured product, Lucite® CP acrylic
sheet exhibits outstanding optical properties, uniform
thickness and low stress level. At half the weight of glass
and 43% the weight of aluminum, this weather-resistant
thermoplastic, Lucite® CP acrylic sheet, is easily fabricated,
formed, finished, cemented, painted and decorated.
LUCITE-TUF™ Acrylic Sheet
An extruded, high impact acrylic sheet, Lucite-Tuf™ acrylic
sheet panels provide superior clarity and strength.
Exhibiting exceptional resistance to hazing and yellowing Lucite-Tuf™ acrylic sheet maintains excellent clarity as
compared to standard polycarbonate sheet. Lucite-Tuf™
acrylic sheet has impact resistance up to 100 times stronger
than glass; and up to 10 times stronger than standard acrylic.
LUCITE® CP Acrylic Sheet
•
•
Lucite® CP acrylic sheet complies to American National
Standard Z97.1-1994 Safety Glazing requirements.
Lucite® CP acrylic sheet has been accepted for use by
the major building codes: ICBO, BOCA, and SBCC.
LUCITE-TUF™ Acrylic Sheet
Lucite-Tuf™ acrylic sheet 0.177 inch thickness has been
tested by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL®) and listed for
use as “burglary resisting glazing”.
29
ACRYLIC
Lucite®
LUCITE® CP and L STANDARD PRODUCTS - Clear/Colored
48
51
Thickness
72
96
.060
CP
BZ2412
CP
120
54
98
100
125
100
.080
CP
CP
CP
.093
CP
WT2447
CP
CP
BZ2412
WT2447
.098
CP
CP
.118
CP
L
WT2447
WT7328
.150
CP
.177
CP
L
WT7328
.220
CP
L
.236
CP
L
WT7328
.354
CP
.472
CP
CP
L
*
CP
L
WT7328
L
CP
L
WT7328
CP
L
L
96
72
96
75
120
98
CP
100
CP
L
WT2447
BZ2412
WT2447
CP
L
CP
L
CP
L
CP
BK2025
WT2447
WT7328
CP
L
L
CP
L
BZ2412
WT2447
CP
L
L
CP
L
WT7328
****
L
CP
L
L
CP
L
L
***
CP
L
L
CP
L
WT7328
L
125
76
108
108
126
L
L
L
L
WT2447
CP
CP
L
Standard Colored Lucite® CP:
Standard listed thicknesses of Lucite CP Bronze 2412, White 7328 and White 2447 can be
supplied in custom sizes.
100
CP
CP
L
Standard Clear Lucite® CP:
.150” thru .236” standard 48”, 60”, 72”, 75” widths can be supplied in custom lengths minimum 38”; maximum 144”.
63
120
CP
L
**
CP - Lucite® CP (Perspex CP) Continuous Process Acrylic Sheet (Clear)
L - Lucite® L, Continuous Cast Acrylic Sheet (Clear)
CP - Lucite® CP (Perspex CP) Continuous Process Acrylic Sheet (Colored)
L - Lucite® L, Continuous Cast Acrylic Sheet (Colored)
* - Size available in all colors.
** - Colors not available: GN 3030, and Fluorescent.
*** - Not available in Sign or Fluorescent colors.
**** - Available Solar Tint, BZ2412 only; Not available: Sign Colors BL2050, BR2418,
GN2108; No Fluorescent.
30
60
108
CP
L
L
CP
L
L
L
L
BZ2412
Lucite® CP Colors:
Solar Tint: BZ 2412
Opals: WT 2447, WT 7328
Lucite® L Colors:
Solar Tint: BZ 2370, BZ 2404, BZ 2412, GN 3030, GY 2064, GY 2074, Opaque BK 2025
Sign Colors: BL 2050 BL 2114, BR 2418, GN 2108, IV 2146, OR 2119, RD 2157,
RD 2283, RD 2793, YL 2037
Fluorescent: RD 4102
Opals: WT 2447, WT 7328
ACRYLIC
Polycast® SAR™
Polycast® SAR™, is a super abrasion resistant acrylic
material manufactured by Polycast, a division of High
Performance Plastics, Inc.
POLYCAST® SAR™
Super Abrasion Resistant
Acrylic Sheet
Polycast® SAR™ sheet combines the physical
characteristics of acrylic sheet with an abrasion resistant,
cleanable surface. Polycast® SAR™ gets its super hard,
glass-like surface from a coating of crosslinked polysilicate (a
silicon polymer or polysiloxane) resin. This unique surface
gives Polycast® SAR™ a combination of properties that
include extreme resistance to abrasion, solvents, impact, and
weathering (including increased resistance to the effect of
ultraviolet light). It is resistant to chemicals such as acids,
bases, hydrocarbons, esters, alcohols. Polycast® SAR™ is
half the weight of glass and can be cut and fabricated using
standard power tools.
Formability is limited. Consult with your nearest Regal
Plastic Supply representative for specific details.
Value added formulations include Polycast® SAR™ UF3 and Polycast® SAR™ UF-4.
Typical applications include:
Architectural
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Schools
Hospitals
Office Buildings
Service Stations
Libraries
Restaurants
Doors (storm, revolving
entrance)
Bus Shelters
Press Box Glazing
Hockey Spectator Guards
Skylights (flat)
Zoo Enclosures
Sound Barriers
Appliances
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Merchandise Covers Case
Directory Panels
Memo Boards
Scanner Panels
•
•
•
•
•
•
Guides
Forklift Shields
Conveyor Shields
Viewing Ports
Machine Guards
Equipment Enclosures
Museum
•
Solarium Glazing
Transportation
•
•
•
•
•
School Bus Windows
Automotive Sun Roofs
Marine Portholes,
Windshields
Limousine Windows
Aircraft Windows
NOTE: Polycast® SAR™ is a combustible thermoplastic
and like many other synthetic materials should not be used in
applications where codes or common sense would deem it
unsafe.
POLYCAST® SAR™ UF-3
An acrylic sheet absorbing essentially all ultraviolet
radiation and part of the short wavelength violet light in the
visible spectrum (400nm).
The UF-3 formulation has a very faint yellow tint because
of its absorption in the visible range.
POLYCAST® SAR™ UF-4
This acrylic sheet absorbs most of the ultraviolet
radiation. It is essentially colorless and transmits all of the
visible spectrum. When the slight yellow tint of UF-3 is
objectionable, UF-4 is the product of choice.
The absorption for both formulations, UF-3 & UF-4, is
independent of thickness.
BREAKAGE RESISTANCE
Breakage Resistance as a Function of
Sheet Thickness
Display
•
•
•
•
Gas Pump Glazing
Electronic Game Faces
Baby Incubators
Vending Machine Glazing
Blood Analyzer Panels
Solar Cell Covers
Food Sneeze Guards
TV Face Screens
Menu Boards
Maintenance (OSHA)
Equipment
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Computer Panels
Tape Drive Windows
Disc Drive Covers
Printer Covers
Terminal Screen Faces
Jig for Printed Circuit
Manufacture
Laser Scanners
5.0 lb. pointed dart of 12 in. x 12 in. SAR™ sheet
Nominal
Thickness
Maximum Drop
Height (in.)
Relative Break
(in.) Resistance
0.125
7.5
1
0.250
42.4
6
0.465*
87.9
25
*10 lb. dart
ACRYLIC
Polycast® SAR™
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Chemical Resistance ASTM D1308; 5.2
Time until visual attack
SAR™
Uncoated
Acrylic
Plate
Glass
10% sodium hydroxide
>16 hr.
>1 hr.
>16 hr.
40% sulfuric acid
>16 hr.
>16 hr.
>16 hr.
gasoline
>16 hr.
>16 hr.
>16 hr.
acetone
>1 hr.
>1 min.
>16 hr.
methylene chloride
>1 hr.
>1 min.
>16 hr.
methyl alcohol
>16 hr.
>4 hr.
>16 hr.
methyl methacrylate
>16 hr.
>10 min.
>16 hr.
Polycast® SAR™ acrylic sheet is a much better thermal
insulator than glass. The rate of heat transfer through glass
(“K” Factor) is four times greater than that through acrylic
sheet. This means that the overall transmission coefficient
(“U” factor) for Polycast® SAR™ will be better than that for
glass.
Polycast® SAR™
U-Factor for Vertical Windows
(BTU/hr. sq. ft./°F)
Winter Heat Loss1
1/8” 3/16” 1/4” ( 1/8” 3/16” 1/4”
(.125) (.188) .250) (.125) (.188) (.250)
Thickness
Additionally, there is no visual attack on Polycast®
SAR™ when exposed to soap, kerosene, denatured acohol,
or gasoline as prescribed by ANSI Z26.1 Chemical
Resistance Tests.
Single Glazed
1.06
1.01
0.96
0.98
0.93
0.89
Double Glazed
1/4” air space
0.55
0.52
0.49
0.56
0.53
0.50
Double Glazed
1/2” air space
0.47
0.45
0.43
0.50
0.48
0.45
Polycast® SAR™ versus Other Building Materials
Inches/Inch/°F
Polycast® SAR™
0.0000390
Aluminum
0.0000129
Steel
0.0000063
Float Glass
0.0000050
FABRICATION
1
NOTE: The polysilicate coating of Polycast® SAR™
acrylic sheet is a thermoset material, which is considerably
harder and less flexible than the thermoplastic acrylic
substrate, even at forming temperatures. The degree to
which the sheet can be formed without causing the surface to
craze or crack is limited. Thermoforming processes must be
performed under more carefully controlled conditions than are
necessary with uncoated acrylic sheet. Consult with your
nearest Regal Plastic Supply representative for detailed
thermoforming information.
OPTICS
Polycast® SAR™ in 1.250” thickness transmits 93%
white light, compared to 66% for an all polycarbonate sheet
and 55% for bullet-resistant glass.
15 mph wind velocity
2
7.5 mph wind velocity
Sheet Size
48” x 72” to
72” X 120”
Thickness
Colors / Formulations /
Finishes
0.060” to 2.000”
A wide variety of colors are available
including green, gray, and bronze. Ultraviolet radiation, filtering formulations and
•
FORMING
Summer Heat Gain2
•
•
•
•
•
Polycast® SAR™ sheet complies with ANSI Z97.1-1984
architectural glazing standard. Due to variations in local
building codes, specific building code information should
be requested from your plastic distributor or acrylic sheet
manufacturer.
Polycast® SAR™ sheet complies with ANSI Z26.1-1990
Safety Code for Safety Glazing Materials for Glazing
Motor Vehicles Operating on Land Highways; Items 4 and
5, rigid plastics > 0.125 inch thickness.
ASTM D 4802-88 Standard Specifications for Polymethyl
Methacrylate sheet.
Consumer Product Safety Commission safety standard
CPSC 16 CFR 1201 for architectural glazing, and can be
used in Category I and II products.
Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 205,
Glazing Materials as per ANSI Z26.1-1990. It also
comples iwth FMVSS No,. 302, Flammability of Interior
Materials.
Polycast® SAR™ sheet (in 1.250 inch thickness) is listed
by Underwriters’ Laboratories as a level 1 bullet-resisting
glazing material (UL-752). SAR™ also complies with
Underwriters’ Laboratories flame classification UL 94 HB.
ACRYLIC
Fabricating
Cutting
Acrylic plastic may be cut by sawing or routing with
power equipment saws or by scribing and breaking. Scribing
is limited to straight cuts in thin pieces, 0.236 inch or less.
Sawing and routing may be used for straight and curved cuts
on any thickness of material. Masking should be kept intact
during fabrication to protect the surfaces and provide
lubrication. Acrylic sheet is a combustible thermoplastic
material. Fire precautions, as are appropriate for comparable
forms of wood and paper products, should be observed.
The kind of cutting to be done should determine the type
of sawing equipment to be used. Circular blade saws are
limited to straight cuts; scroll and sabre saws for rough
cutting small-radius curves in thin sheet; band saws for rough
cutting larger-radius curves or for making rough straight cuts
in thick sheet. Routers and woodworking shapers are used
for cutting and trimming the edges of flat and formed parts of
any configuration and provide the best overall fabricated
edge.
Most steel blades are made of alloy steel tempered to
permit filing and have teeth with 0° to 10° rake. All teeth
should have uniform height. Teeth of uneven height will
cause excessive chipping and possibly cracked blades
because of the cutting strain being concentrated on a few
teeth rather than distributed evenly over all the teeth.
Similarly, all teeth should be the same shape. The hook or
"rake" of the teeth should be uniform and preferably in radial
line with the center of the blade. Saws should be machine
filed or ground.
To minimize both chipping and overheating tendencies,
circular saw blades should protrude approximately 1/2 inch
more than the thickness of the sheet. The work must be held
firmly against the fence, which must be parallel to the saw
blade.
Drilling
Twist drills commonly used for metals can be used for
acrylic, but best results are achieved by modifying the drill bit
to produce a scraping action rather than a cutting action.
Complete instructions for correct sharpening of bits may be
obtained from your nearest Regal Plastic Supply Distributor.
Bit modification produces good quality surfaced holes,
eliminating the problem of bottom surface breaking out and
the pickup of masking paper adhesive.
Typical Circular Saw Cutting Problems and
Possible Corrections
Chipping
Burning
Slow Feed Rate
Increase Feed Rate
Decrease Blade
Penetration
Increase Blade Penetration
Support Material
Continuously (Narrow
Saw Slot)
Insure Fence Is Parallel to
Blade
Provide Hold Down
Use Blade Stiffener
Increase Tooth Rake
Angle
Decrease Tooth Rake Angle
Ensure Teeth Are of
Uniform Height
Ensure Blade Has Been
Properly Sharpened
Use Blade With Greater
Side Clearance
Whenever holes in acrylic sheet penetrate the stock,
standard twist drills should be modified up to a 1.00 inch
diameter. A 60° tip angle allows the drill to emerge from the
second surface without fracturing the sheet. If holes are to
be drilled that do not penetrate the sheet, the rake and lip
clearance angles of the drill should be modified, however tip
angles larger than 60° clear chips from the hole better.
Large diameter holes can be cut with hollow end mills,
circle cutters or trepanning tools. The cutters of the latter
should be ground to 0° rake angle and adequate back
clearance, just as lathe tools are ground.
Any of the conventional drilling tools may be used:
portable electric drills or flexible shafts, drill presses or lathes.
The drill should always run true since wobble will affect the
finish of the hole. When drilling holes that penetrate the
second surface, it is desirable to back up the sheet with wood
and slow the feed as the drill point breaks through. For
accuracy and safety, the sheet should be clamped during
drilling.
Routing and Shaping
Utilizing standard woodworking routers, acrylic sheet is
routed much the same way as wood. Single-fluted bits for
inside circle routing and double-fluted bits for edge routing
are recommended.
33
ACRYLIC
Fabricating
Turning
Acrylic sheet can be turned on almost any type lathe.
Bits designed especially for cutting acrylic are available, but
most high-speed tool bits with a 0° to -4° rake will work very
well. Clearance angles should be from 5° to 10°.
FINISHING
Scraping
Scraping is the easiest technique for smoothing or
squaring the edge of an acrylic sheet. A scraper can be
almost any piece of metal with a sharp, flat edge. Examples
are the back of a hacksaw blade, the back of a knife blade, or
a tool steel blank. A sharp, square edge is the key when
choosing an appropriate scraping tool.
Filing
Acrylic sheet may be filed using almost any type
commercial file. The quality of hte finish will depend on the
file coarseness. A 10 to 12 inch (250 to 300 mm) smooth-cut
file is recommended for filing edges and removing tool marks.
Half round, rat tail, triagular, and small jewelers’ files are
good for smoothing insides of holes, cutting grooves and
notches, or finishing detail.
Sanding
If there is a scratch in the sheet, it should not be sanded
unless the surface imperfections are too deep to be removed
by light buffing and the resultant optical distortion can be
tolerated. The way to tell if sanding is necessary is to rub
your fingernail over the scratch. If it can be felt, then sanding
is required. The finest sandpaper that will remove the
imperfection(s) should be used. Coarse paper can cause
scratches deeper than the original imperfection, and
additional finishing operations will be needed.
It is recommended using a 600 grit sandpaper wrapped
around a rubber-padded sanding block. If this does not
readily remove the scratch, step down to 400 grit. The
sanding should be done in directions mutually 30 apart to
produce a diamond pattern. After sanding and stepping up to
600 grit, the sheet should be polished.
DO NOT USE Disc or belt sanders dry. The greater
danger of heat generation with mechanical sanders makes
the use of water or oil coolants doubly desirable. Wet
sanders are preferred, but dry orbital sanders can be used
with care. Open coat sandpaper should be used, since it
does not become clogged as fast as closed coat sandpaper.
Buffing
The sheet should be clean and dry at the start of each
buffing operation. Some polishing compounds leave the
surface clean after buffing. If these materials are not used,
washing should follow the last step in polishing.
If required, due to sanding or scratching, an abrasive
coated wheel is used first. The abrasive is a standard
polishing compound composed of very fine alumina or similar
abrasive and tallow.
The second wheel used is charged only with tallow for
buffing purposes only. The wheels used should be airventilated cotton muslin rag wheels and should operate at
3,000 to 4,500 surface foot per minute (SFPM).
SFPM Calculation: 1/4 the diameter of buffing wheel in
inches multiplied by the spindle speed in rpm.
Polishing
After buffing, the acrylic plastic can be brought to a high
polish on a soft, loose buff of imitation chamois or flannel on
which no abrasive or tallow is used. The wheels should be
10 to 12 inches in diameter and should run at 3,000 to 4,500
SFPM. A hand-applied coat of wax may be used in place of
buffing on the finish wheel, if desired.
Cementing
Pieces fabricated from acrylic sheet may be joined using
mechanical methods such as bolts, thermal methods such as
welding, or chemical methods such as cementing.
The two types of cement used for acrylic sheet are
solvent cements and polymerizable cements. The solvent
cements may be used as supplied or may be thickened with
acrylic sheet chips or molding resin. Polymerizable cements
are viscous as supplied.
Solvent cements work by softening and swelling the
sheet, permitting actual cohesion of the parts. After
assembly, the solvents evaporate or dissipate through the
material, leaving a hard, clear joint.
Thickened solvent cements work the same way with a
longer solvent action time due to slower evaporation.
Thickened solvent cements limit capillary flow between two
closely fitted surfaces and provide limited gap-filling
capability.
The polymerizable cements have little or no solvent
action, but actually form new polymer in the joint, thus
holding the parts together.
ACRYLIC
Fabricating
Basic Cementing Techniques
1. Capillary Action Method. To use this method, the
parts must be closely fitted with no visible gaps. The parts to
be cemented are either unclamped or very lightly clamped
together. The cement is dispensed (from a hypodermic
needle, eye dropper or similar instrument) along the edge of
the joint. Capillary action draws the cement between the
parts. The time for the joint to set will vary from two to five
minutes (sometimes longer), depending on the solvent used
and temperature and humidity conditions. DO NOT flow or
drip solvent cement on a flame-polished, strip heated or drybelt sanded surface since these conditions show the
maximum amount of fabrication stress possible in plastic
sheet. It is recommended to use a minimum amount of
solvent and pressure in the joint since it is more readily
attached by solvents, resulting in longer set times, lower joint
strength, whitening in the joint and increased risk of crazing
because the solvent takes longer to evaporate.
2. Soak or Dip Method. With this method, parts must
also fit closely. One of the parts is placed in a container
holding a solvent cement until the edge softens into a
cushion. When the parts are assembled, the cushion from
the first part forms a cushion on the other part by solvent
action.
Masking may be required near the edges to be
cemented to prevent excessive softening. The parts should
be allowed to set for 24 hours before handling.
3. Viscous Cementing. Viscous cements are used to
cement joints that can’t be easily cemented by capillary or
solvent soak methods. Viscous cement is thick. It will fill
small gaps and can make strong, transparent joints where
solvent cements can’t.
Masking tape should be applied to protect the area
around the joint but should be removed carefully 5 minutes
after application of the cement. The parts shouldn’t be
disturbed at all for the first 3 minutes, or the joint will not hold.
After approximately 30 minutes the part may be moved, but
no additional work should be performed for 12 to 24 hours.
ACRYLIC THICK SHEET
Cutting
Circular saw blade height for material thicknesses above
12 mm (0.472”), should be set with space between the
bottom of the tooth pattern (the gullet) and the surface of the
sheet between 0.250” and 0.375”. Increasing the space to
0.500” or more increases the probability of chipping,
particularly when working with old or dull saw blades.
To obtain optimum edge quality, thick sheet should be
cut at lower feed rates than thinner gauge sheet. Thick
sheet acrylic is more resistant to chipping because of the
additional stiffness created by the increased thickness. Feed
rates will vary for different saws, different blades, and
equipment set-ups. However, for a standard 25.4 cm (10”)
tablesaw, optimum feed rate is approximately 2.4 to 3 meters
per minute (8 to 10 feet per minute) for sheet thicknesses of
18 to 24 mm (0.708 to 0.944 inch).
Drilling
Sufficient cooling is critical when drilling thick acrylic
sheet. Generally an optimum quality hole will be possible for
drill bits of over 4.5 mm (0.177 inch) in diameter. The larger
bits act as a heat sink, conducting the heat inwards and away
from the cutting surface, generating less melt. When using
the smaller bits, such as 3 mm (0.125 inch) diameter, a
coolant is recommended to reduce heat build up.
Peck drilling is necessary for thick sheet. The bit must
be backed out when partially through the thickness to allow
for the clearing of chips and cooling of the cutting surface.
Use of compressed air on the bit, as it is backed out, will
clear the melt and chips and cool the cutting surface. For 24
mm (0.944 ich) sheet, it may be necessary to back out the bit
twice, particularly with the smaller diameter bits. When end
cutting, if drilling deeper than 25.4 mm (1 inch), back the bit
out 1 time for every 8 to 10 mm of depth (2 to 3 times per
inch of depth), continue to clear the bit of chips, and provide
cooling to the cutting surface. Stack drilling is not
recommended.
NOTE: Using a sheet of wood as a back-up sheet can
help prevent break-out on the back side of the drilled hole.
Optimum rotational speed for conventional bits is 700
rpm. Faster speeds will create a melting problem, especially
with the smaller diameter bits. Slower speeds are more likely
to cause chipping.
ACRYLIC
Fabricating
The large diameter bits, such as 10 mm or 0.375 inch
and 13 mm or 0.500 inch are more prone to chipping,
therefore, the hole must be initiated gently. Optimum results
are achieved at 700 rpm. Rotational speeds as low as 400 to
500 rpm lead to chipping. If chipping is a problem, the
rotational speed may be increased to as high as 1000 rpm for
10 mm or 0.375 inch, and 13 mm or 0.500 inch diameter bits.
The large diameter bits are less susceptible to melting the
surface (which normally is increased at higher rotational
speed), resulting in a broader operating window for rotational
speed. 5 to 10 seconds for a hole 18 mm (0.708 inch) deep
is considered an appropriate feed rate on a drill press. This
translates to approximately 4 seconds per centimeter or 10
seconds per inch of depth.
Routing
The following are suggested guidelines when using thick
sheet acrylic:
36
•
Minimum cutter diameter of 12.7 mm (0.500 inch) is
recommended
•
Minimize cutoff by sizing blanks as closely as possible
to final part
•
Coolant maybe necessary for cooling the cutter and
clearing chips from cutter path
•
For slot routing, use end mill with 2 to 4 spiral flutes,
allowing a 180° turn per 25 mm (per inch) of length
•
Feed rates for slot routing with recommended bits: 1 to
1.5 meters or 3 to 5 feet per minute for a 6 mm (0.250
inch) deep slot, and 0.5 to 1 meter or 2 to 3 feet per
minute for a 12.7 mm (0.500 inch) deep slot.
•
If slot routing with a straight, single, or double fluted
bit, minimum shank diameter should remain at 12.7
mm (0.500 inch), and feed rates should be slowed to
0.5 to 1 meter or 2 to 3 feet per minute for a 6mm
(0.250 inch) deep slot.
•
When using a hand held router for contour or plow
routing, feed rates should be between 1.5 to 4.5
meters or 5 to 15 feet per minute. The preferred bit
geometry is sharp, two fluted.
•
Backing material with appropriate openings is always
recommended when using a hand held router to cut
slots.
•
Maximum rotational speeds for thicknesses of 18 mm
(0.708 inch) and 24 mm (0.944 inch) are 20,000 and
16,000 rpm, respectively
CNC Routers
The recommendations offered above were developed on
(stationary) inverted and hand held equipment. CNC routing
equipment offers a wide adjustability in feed rates and in
rotational speeds. This versatility may widen the window of
fabrication, and improve the performance of bit designs or
geometries which yield unsatisfactory results when used on
more conventional routing equipment
DO YOU KNOW?
In the early 1900s hoping to create a substitute
for shellac, chemist Leo Baekeland invents a
liquid resin that hardens into a transparent solid
that won’t burn, boil, melt or dissolve even in
acid. It was the first completely man-made
substance.
ACRYLIC
Forming
One of the most useful properties of acrylic sheet is its
thermoformability. Thermoplastic materials become soft and
pliable when heated and can be formed to almost any desired
shape. As the material cools, it stiffens and retains the shape
to which it has been formed.
The size, shape, and optical requirements of the formed
part generally govern the forming method to be used.
TWO DIMENSIONAL
Cold Forming
Acrylic sheet can be bent while cold into simple shapes by
springing the material into a curved frame. The radius of the
frame curvature depends on the formulation of the acrylic
sheet and the thickness. To avoid possible crazing , check
with your nearest Regal Plastic Supply Distributor for specifics.
Strip Heat Bending
This is the simplest method of forming acrylic sheet along
a straight line. A strip heater is used to heat the sheet to
forming temperature so that the bend can be made. The
process is usually used for small parts where the length of the
bend is relatively short. Bends of more than 24 inches have a
tendency to bow.
Drape Forming
This method of forming is used for two-dimensional and
mild three-dimensional shapes. The acrylic sheet is heated to
the proper temperature, then carefully draped over the form.
The edges of the sheet should be held against the form by a
clamping ring or rubber bands to prevent curling. Reducing
mark-off can be achieved by using a female drape form;
allowing the part to lay into the mold by the weight of the
sheet.
THREE-DIMENSIONAL FORMING
3-D shapes in acrylic sheet are formed by stretching the
heated material to the required contour. The force required to
stretch the sheet can be supplied by manual labor, mechanical
pressure, hydraulic pressure, vacuum, air pressure, or
combinations of these depending on the forming method being
used.
Free Forming
This method is used to form 3-D shapes entirely by the
use of air pressure differentials - vacuum or positive
pressures without the use of male or female forms. Parts
produced by this method usually have excellent optical
properties.
The heated sheet is clamped over a vacuum pot or
pressure head and drawn or blown to shape. Since the sheet
does not come in contact with a form, there is no mark-off to
contend with.
VACUUM SNAPBACK FORMING
This method is preferred when the desired part varies
from a true surface tension shape. Like vacuum forming,
snapback forming is done in a vacuum pot. The sheet is
heated and then drawn into a vacuum pot to a larger bubble
than the male mold. A male form which reproduces the
inside contour of the desired part is then lowered and locked
inside the formed bubble. As the vacuum is gradually
released, the sheet snaps back slowly against the form.
VACUUM DRAWING OR BLOWING
Into A FORM
Using air-pressure differentials, a heated acrylic sheet
clamped directly to the edges of a female form can be drawn
by vacuum or forced by air pressure down into the form.
MANUAL STRETCH FORMING
This method is often used when the compound curvature
is not great, optical distortion is not objectionable, and the
number of parts to be made does not warrant setting up
mechanical equipment.
The sheet is heated to forming temperature, and clamps
are fastened to the edges six to ten inches apart. With the
sheet held by the clamps, the forming crew draws the sheet
down over the form. Slow, steady tension should be used to
allow the sheet to stretch gradually. After stretching, a
clamping ring can be placed in position around the edges.
37
ACRYLIC
Forming
SLIP FORMING
Acrylic sheet is usually clamped around the edges after
heating but before it is formed. This puts the whole sheet in
tension and stretches it more uniformly so wrinkles are less
apt to form. In the cases where a thicker finished part is
required, a predetermined amount of sheet is allowed to slip
under the clamping ring to reduce sheet thinning.
Wrinkles tend to form outside the ring around the edge of
the piece, limiting the amount of material that can be allowed
to slip in. When sufficient material has slipped in, the rings
are clamped more tightly, and the draw is completed. Hot or
insulated clamping rings may be used to avoid chilling the
material.
PLUG AND RING FORMING
For this method, hot acrylic sheet is clamped over a ring
and the center of the suspended material is pushed in with a
tapered plug. Allowing for the thickness of the sheet, the ring
is made larger than the outside of the male form or plug.
The disadvantage of this method is the production of
excessive mark-off, particularly at the inside corners of the
formed part.
VACUUM ASSIST PLUG AND RING
FORMING
Deeply drawn parts (ratio of width of opening to depth of
part is one or less) with little thickness can be made if
vacuum is used to assist the draw. The ring support is made
into an airtight box in which the heated acrylic sheet is
clamped. Vacuum is applied to draw the sheet to about half
the desired depth. The plug is then forced into the drawn
sheet to secure the desired shape. When the plug is in
place, air is vented into the box to allow the sheet to shrink
onto the plug. Utilizing this method produces a more uniform
final part thickness than with slip, plug & ring, or vacuum
snapback techniques.
BLOWBACK FORMING
This technique is preferred for reproduction of complex
drawn shapes. This method consists of clamping a heated
acrylic sheet between a pressure box and an oversize
clamping ring. A male form shaped to the inside contour of
the part is then pressed into the sheet to the required depth
and locked in this position, stretching the sheet.
Compressed air, 50-100 psi, is admitted to the pressure
box forcing the heated sheet back against the male form.
The parts are held in this position by air pressure until the
sheet cools and becomes rigid.
The forming cycles must be fast enough to insure the
acrylic sheet is still well above the minimum forming
temperature as it is blown back against the male form.
BILLOW FORMING
The main advantage of billow forming is good control of
wall thickness. A heated acrylic blank, larger than the
projected area of the part, is clamped to a pressure box. The
box must be strong and airtight. A bubble is blown in the
clamped sheet by admitting air into the box. The male mold
is then forced down into the bubble. Contact with the mold
tends to prevent further thinning due to friction and cooling.
The air pressure maintained in the box forces the bubble to
wrap around the mold as it descends. The pressure should
be relief-valved so there is no build-up as the mold and sheet
displace the volume.
RIDGE FORMING
These are open or skeletal rather than solid forms.
Generally they are easier and less costly to construct than
solid forms.
Ridge forms may be used with nearly all methods of
forming, including press, vacuum or pressure, snapback or
reverse blow and vacuum plate. Mark-off is minimal with
these forms since the heated sheet only comes in contact
along the ridges necessary to determine the size and shape
of the formed part.
MALE AND FEMALE FORMING
This technique is used to form acrylic sheet by surface
molding and embossing the material between matched male
and female dies. Both surfaces of the acrylic sheet are in
continuous contact with the forms, and will reproduce the
mold surfaces when high enough pressures are used.
For additional information on method, type or procedural
properties, contact your nearest Regal Plastic Supply
Distributor.
ACRYLIC
Painting
Acrylic sheet can be painted easily to create an almost
unlimited variety of decorative and functional products. As
with any material, however, proper techniques and paint
suited to the application are necessary to obtain successful
results.
It is important that the paint selected for use on acrylic
sheet be designed expressly for acrylic plastics. Ordinary
house paints and water based paints have poor adhesion to
acrylic sheet. Some paints contain organic solvents which
may craze acrylic sheet. Therefore, for assurance that a
specific paint formulation is suitable for use on acrylic sheet
in the intended application, consulting with the paint
manufacturer is highly recommended.
Second surface painting offers the most protection from
weathering deterioration. However, the exposure of the paint
to full sunlight carries with it possible loss of adhesion and
flaking. The weathering results on first surface films are more
severe with resultant surface dulling, chalking, and erosion to
the degree that repainting is often needed to restore
appearance.
CLEANING BEFORE PAINTING
The table below lists the most common contaminants
and recommended cleaning methods.
Type of
Contamination
Cleaning Method
Masking Paper
Adhesive
Dab with the gummed surface of the masking paper. If this
fails, wipe with VM&P naptha on a clean cloth and rinse with
a dilute water-detergent solution or wipe with 99 percent
isopropyl alcohol and rinse with clean water.*
Water-soluble
Contaminants
Wash with a detergent-water solution followed by a fresh
water rinse.
Fingerprints
Wipe with solft clean cloth dampened with 99 percent
isopropyl alcohol.
Oil-soluble
Contaminants
Use a hydrocarbon solvent such as VM&P naphtha,
kerosene, or mineral spirits. Follow with a detergent-water
wash and a clean water* rinse.
Spray-masking
Compounds
Wipe the area with a damp synthetic sponge then wipe the
surface with VM&P naphtha or isopropyl alcohol.
Grease-forming
Compounds
Wash with kerosene or mineral spirits. Follow by washing
with a detergent-water solution and a clean water* rinse.
Silicone Oils
and Greases
Avoid contact completely. Once contaminated with
silicones, acrylic is virtually impossible to clean.
*Note: When a clean water rinse is specified, use distilled or deionized water to prevent water
spotting, which may adversely affect adhesion.
As with any painting project, for optimum results the
surface must be free from contaminates. Solvents for dirt
and grease must be carefully chosen to avoid those that are
harmful to acrylic sheet. Harmful solvents include chlorinated
hydrocarbons, acetone, toluene, xylene, lacquer thinners,
and some paint thinners. All of these craze acrylic sheet.
Crazing may not be apparent immediately; however,
surfaces that have been treated with these solvents become
sensitized to crazing and may craze once in service.
STATIC ELECTRICITY
The charges of static electricity that accumulate on the
surfaces of acrylic sheet during processing cause uneven
paint deposition and paint crawling. These static charges are
most common under dry winter atmospheric conditions of low
relative humidity. At 70 percent relative humidity, there are
normally no problems in painting except for the possibility of
moisture condensation on the surface of the sheet. Antistatic solutions affect paint adhesion and cannot be used on
an acrylic sheet surface that will be painted.
There are a number of recognized ways to eliminate
static charges on acrylic sheet. One effective method is to
wipe the side that is not to be painted with a mixture of 10
parts isopropyl alcohol in 90 parts water, applied with a well
wrung out clean chamois to minimize spotting on drying. If
the surface to be painted is wiped with the alcohol-water
solution, the moisture must be removed from that surface by
blowing with a dry-air gun. Care must be taken , however, to
not generate a new static charge.
For additional suggested methods of static
neutralization, please contact your nearest Regal Plastic
Supply Distributor.
ACRYLIC
Painting
PAINT MIXING / APPLYING
Mixing
Paint must be thoroughly stirred to obtain uniform
pigment distribution. When pressure-feed tanks are used,
they should be equipped with continuous air-operated stirrers
to prevent pigment settling, which can cause high pigment
volume concentration in the paint film and lead to failure of
the paint. It is important to use the proper type and amount
of thinner. Excessive thinner can reduce the durability of the
paint. The paint supplier’s instructions for mixing should be
followed stringently.
The colorfastness of the paint film depends on the quality
of the paint. Poor color stability, however, may result from
mixing or reducing two normally stable colors. It is
recommended consulting with the paint manufacturer for an
opinion on the color stability of specific mixtures of paints.
Applying
Acrylic sheet may be painted by spraying, screening, or
brushing. Each paint manufacturer makes grades of paint
matched to each type of application.
Color Coat
The color coat should be at least one mil thick for best
durability. When painted acrylic sheets are thermoformed at
high forming temperatures, some colors may bleed. This can
be overcome by limiting forming temperatures to 340°F or
less.
Top Coat
Applying a clear topcoat over the color coat not only
protects the paint from abrasion during cleaning and
handling, but also adds life to the paint job.
Second surface painted sign faces may be topcoated
with a fine mist coat of white mixed with 30 percent clear.
This will improve the diffusion and inner reflectance of the
sign lighting, and will help wash out pinholes and protect the
decoration.
PAINT REMOVAL
Paint may be removed from acrylic sheet utilizing
solvents, Trialene soap, or sandblasting.
Solvents
The best solvent for paint removal is cyclohexanone.
The acrylic sheet should be wiped with a solvent-soaked rag.
The sheet itself should not be soaked in cyclohexanone.
When solvent is used to remove paint from acrylic
sheet, the sheet should be annealed to remove the residual
solvent which may cause crazing. While the initial solvent
treatment may not craze the acrylic sheet, subsequent
contact with other solvents may cause crazing unless the
sheet is properly annealed.
Contact your nearest Regal Plastic Supply
Distributor for further details.
Trialene Soap
Trialene soap is particularly useful for paint removal
when the paint has not been on the acrylic sheet for a long
time. Once the paint has been removed, the soap must be
thoroughly cleaned from the sheet surface by rinsing with
fresh water. The sheet must be completely dry before
painting.
Caustic soda and trisodium phosphate may also be used
for removing paint.
CAUTION: Trialene soap, caustic soda, and trisodium
phosphate attack human skin very quickly so appropriate
measures should be taken when using these compounds.
Sandblasting
This method removes paint, but is generally more
expensive and leaves the acrylic sheet with a frosted surface.
Only a fine grade of sand should be used. Sandblasted
surfaces sometimes have a grayish tone when they are
repainted with white paint.
ACRYLIC
Mirror
Acrylic is the most widely used polymer for plastic mirror.
Considered to have the highest optical quality and scratch
resistance of its mirror counterparts (P.E.T.G. and
polycarbonate), acrylic mirror has 14 times the impact
resistance of glass, is one-half the weight., and has higher
reflectivity making it the brighter of the two. Manufactured in
cell cast or extruded form, it is the most economical of the
mirror products.
Acrylic mirror should be used where precise image
reflectance is not required except in relatively small
components.
Typical Applications
• Plaques
• Display, Exhibit and Fixture Manufacturers
• Laser Cutters
• P.O.P. Fabricators and Novelty Manufacturers
• Slatwall and Tambour Manufacturers
• Ceiling Panels
• Hotels, Casinos, and Theme Parks
• Movie studios
• Advertising specialties
• Name plates
• Plaques
• Signage
IMAGE DISTORTION
Somewhat flexible and subject to thermal expansion,
care in selecting adequate panel thickness and utilizing
proper installation techniques can minimize visual distortion.
FABRICATION
Acrylic mirror is generally fabricated using the same
procedures and techniques as standard acrylic plastic with
the exception of strip heating and bending. Acrylic mirror
cannot be thermoformed.
BUILDING CODE CONSIDERATIONS
Acrylic mirror is classified as a slow burning plastic
material with combustibility comparable to Red Oak. Use of
acrylic mirror on walls and ceilings is subject to limits
applicable to combustible interior finish.
Contact your
nearest Regal Plastic Supply Distributor for specific
compliances.
Available in standard sheet size of 48” x 96”, varying
thicknesses from .060 to .250, and a wide range of colors.
Acrylic mirror is also produced in a wide variety of
formulations to address application-specific needs:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Metalized See-Thru Mirror
First Surface Mirror, a dual mirror product, clear/colored,
for use in back lite applications, laser cutting, and
specialty manufacturing
Textured
See-Thru Mirror, semi-transparent, designed for interior
surveillance
Marine Grade
Hard Coated, scratch resistant
DO YOU KNOW?
In the early 1900s chemist Jacques Edwin
B r and enbe r ge r dev el op s v i c os e, an
i mpermeabl e fi lm l ate r marketed as
Cellophane .
ACRYLIC
Cast / Extruded
Rod
Acrylic rod and tube are available in both extruded and
cast grades.
Casting is the most expensive of the two, but is preferred
for many industrial and commercial applications because of its
optical quality, higher tensile strength, greater resistance to
heat distortion and better machinability. Cast rod and tube are
manufactured from raw mononers which are cast or poured
into molds. The material is then ground to size and polished to
finished dimensions. Cast acrylic rod and tube have excellent
light transmission and outstanding weatherability. Unaffected
by sunlight, the cast products resist aging and maintain good
stability under variable conditions of heat, cold, moisture and
other exposure. There is no indication of warpage, cracking,
crazing, or corroding when subjected to prolonged exposure
outdoors.
Extruded rod and tube are manufactured by extruders that
push acrylic pellets through a highly polished extrusion die to
produce the finished product. Less expensive than casting,
the extrusion process does not produce optimum optical clarity
but is optically clear and prismatic.
Acrylic rods and tubes are shatterproof, break resistant,
half the weight of and more economical than glass.
Tube
Shapes
FABRICATION
Heat formable, acrylic rod and tube may be printed,
embossed, plated, metalized or hot-stamped with metal or
plastic foils. They can be sawed, drilled, milled, engraved and
finished with sharp, carbide-tipped woodworking or metalworking tools. Rod and tube ends can be heated, upset and
molded to fit brackets or other parts. Refer to pages 32
through 35 for general acrylic fabrication reference material.
Typical Applications:
P.O.P. displays
Museum exhibits
Chandeliers
Novelty items
Trophies
Decorative Architecturals
Keychains
Jewelry displays
Towel bars
Model
Furniture
Drink stirrers
Rulers
Eye glass holders
SHAPES / PROFILES
Acrylic can also be fabricated into shapes such as cubes,
balls, triangles, domes, and other geometric designs.
Applications for these shapes include: machine parts,
decorative knobs, check-valve components, tube containers
for food and liquid, toy pieces, display elements, household
accessories components, and medical and scientific
instrument parts.
There are a wide variety of profiles and shapes available.
Consult with your nearest Regal Plastic Supply Distributor for
current availabilities.
Cast Acrylic Rod:
1/4" to 2” diameters, 8.0 ft. average length
2 1/8 " to 3" diameters, 6.0 ft. average length
3 1/4" to 6" diameters, 4.0 ft. average length
6 1/2” to 12” diameters, 2-4 ft. average length
Cast Acrylic Tube:
1 1/2 " to 1 7/8" O.D. - wall thicknesses of 1/8", 3/16" ,1/4"
2" through 27 5/8" O.D. - wall thicknesses of 1/8", 3/16”, 1/4”, 3/8”,
1/2”
Large Diameter Seamless Acrylic Tube:
7” to 12”, 42.5”, 44.7” O.D. - wall thicknesses of 3/8”, 1/2”, 3/4”, 1”
13” to 36” O.D. - wall thicknesses of 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 3/4”, 1”
Minimum Length: 4 feet
Extruded Rod:
Photo courtesy of Thermoplastic Processes, Inc.
42
1/16 to 1 1//2 in. dia. x 6 ft.
Extruded Tube:
1/4 to 6 in. OD x 6 ft.
1/8 & 1/4 in. wall
MISCELLANEOUS
Camie-Campbell
Camie-Campbell has been manufacturing specialty
chemical products for 50 years. A wide range of formulations
are available. Camie-Campbell adhesive, lubricant, maintenance, screen printing, plastic molding, furniture, sewing, and
upholstery products, are free of chlorofluorocarbons and
ozone depleting chemicals. Camie products are designed for
most plastic resins used in thermal plastic and thermal set
processes. Below is a sampling of Camie-Campbell products, for a complete product listing, sizes, and availability,
contact your closest Regal Plastic Supply Distribution Center.
ADHESIVES
300 General Purpose Spray
Adhesive
This colorless adhesive, tacks instantly for a temporary
or permanent bond, adheres to metal, plastic, wood, paper,
cardboard, fabric, leather, and other substrates. It is used in
the garment, furniture, and upholstery industries, and in
shipping room applications for sealing and palletizing of bags.
Available in aerosol (24 oz) and bulk (5 gal pail, 55 gal drum).
303 Foam and Fabric Adhesive
Soft, pliable, and orange, this adhesive emits a lace
spray pattern for low soak-in on polyurethane foam, and
works well on urethane foam, fabric, metal, supported vinyl,
wood, paper, and leather. Available in aerosol (24 oz) and
bulk (1 and 5 gal pails, 55 gal drums).
313 Fast Tack Upholstery
Adhesive
This product is less expensive than 303 with a faster
open time or set and a soft bond line without 1,1,1,
trichloroethane. Available in aerosol (20 oz) and bulk (1 and
5 gal pails, 55 gal drums).
393 Trim and Laminating
Adhesive
A high temperature, high strength adhesive, this product
was designed for harsh, demanding jobs found in the van
conversion, motor home, and manufactured housing
industries. Clear and non-yellowing, it is used for decorative
laminate work in the furniture, cabinet, and woodworking
areas. Available in aerosol (24 oz).
CLEANERS
22/80 Natural Citrus Cleaner
This product is designed to remove adhesives, grease,
oil stains, road tar, rubber marks, residue from decals, heel
marks, graftiti, lipstick, release agents, and soap film.
84
Compatible with most substrates including painted
surfaces, glass, porcelain, concrete, and some plastics, it is
water washable and available in aerosol (20 oz) and bulk (5
gal pail, 55 gal drum).
22/90 Heavy Duty Cleaner and
Degreaser
Designed for heavy duty cleaning jobs, this product can
be used on machinery, floors, work areas and metal parts. It
is not recommended for energized electrical components or
contacts. Bulk is available.
LUBRICANTS
100 Heavy Duty Silicone
Lubricant
Used primarily for general maintenance applications, this
multi-purpose, 6%, high viscosity, silicone spray can prevent
friction, sticking, ink or adhesive build up and the formation of
rust. Available in aerosol (24 oz) B, C
888 Silicone Release Agent and
Lubricant
Odorless and nonstaining, this product is recommended
for use in the upholstery, foam and furniture industry. Available in aerosol (20 oz) A, C
999 Dry Silicone
This all purpose lubricant is used for a variety of
applications, but is especially recommended for plastic and
painted surfaces. Available in aerosol (20 oz) and bulk (5 gal
pail, 55 gal drum) A, D
A1000 Dry Lubricant Release
Agent
This product leaves a dry, slick, friction-free surface
between like and unlike substrates and is useful where a wet
lubricant might attract dust and dirt. Solvent resistant, it will
not melt below 450°F. Available in aerosol, (20 oz) and bulk,
(5 gal pail, 55 gal drum).
1380 Heavy Duty Paintable Mold
Release
This all purpose release agent can be used on all of the
same plastic resins as 1080. FDA approved, it allows for
post decoration, painting, and gluing. Available in bulk.
A—Nonflammable when dry
B—Extremely flammable during application—nonflammable when dry
C—Active ingredients comply with 21 CFR 178.3570 lubricants with incidental
food contact. Allow solvent to evaporate prior to possible food contact
D—Active ingredients and solvent comply with 21 CFR 178.3570 lubricants
with incidental food contact.
APPENDIX
Trademarks
Click on trademark name to locate within document
Acetron is a registered trademarks of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Acrylite is a registered trademark of CYRO Industries
Alucobond is a registered trademark of Swiss Aluminum Ltd.
atoglas is a trademark of Elf Atochem, S.A.
Bienfang is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Celazole is a registered trademark of Hoechst Celanese Corporation.
Celcon is registered trademark of Celanese Corporation.
CleanStat is a registered trademark of Poly Hi Solidur, Inc.
ChampLine is a trademark of Poly Hi Solidur, Inc.
Clorox is a registered trademark of the Clorox Company.
ColorQuik is a trademark of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing
Company.
Coroplast is a registered trademark of the Coroplast Division of Great
Pacific Enterprises, Inc.
Corzan is a registered trademark of The B. F. Goodrich Company
Delrin is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company
Downy is a registered trademark of Proctor & Gamble.
Dripgard is a trademark of General Electric Company.
Duratron is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Eastar is a registered trademark of Eastman Chemical.
Ensicar is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ensifone is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ensikem is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ensilon is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ensipro is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ensital is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ensitep is a registered trademark of Ensinger Industries, Inc.
Ertalyte is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Fantastik is a registered trademark of Dowbrands, Inc.
Floor Guard is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Floor Grip is a trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Fluorosint is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Fome-Cor is a registered trademark of International Paper Company.
Formula 409 is a registered trademark of the Clorox Company.
Gatorblanks is a registered trademark of International Paper Company.
Gatorcel is a registered trademark of International Paper Company.
Gatorfoam is a registered trademark of International Paper Company.
Gatorplast is a registered trademark of International Paper Company.
HYLAR 5000 is a registered trademark of Ausimont USA, Inc.
Hyzod is a registered trademark of Sheffield Plastics, Inc.
Hydcor is a registered trademark of A. L. Hyde Company
Hytrel is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company
Hydex is a registered trademark of A. L. Hyde Company
Hydel is a registered trademark of A. L. Hyde Company
Implex is a registered trademarks and is a trademark of Elf Atochem, S.A.
Jet Guard is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
JetMount is a registered trademark of International Paper Company.
Joy is a registered trademark of Proctor & Gamble.
Ketron is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Kevlar is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company
Komacel is a registered trademark of Kömmerling.
Komatex is a registered trademark of Kömmerling.
Kydex is a registered trademark of the Kleerdex Company.
Kynar is a registered trademark Elf Atochem, S.A.
Kynar 500 is a registered trademark of Pennwalt Corporation.
Lexan is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
Lexgard is a registered trademarks of General Electric Company.
Lucite is a registered trademark of Ineos Acrylics.
MC is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Meguiar’s is a registered trademark of Meguiar’s, Inc.
MightyCore is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Mr. Clean is a registered trademark of Proctor & Gamble.
NORRENE is a registered trademark of Norton.
Noryl is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
Nylatron is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Nylawear is a registered trademark of A. L. Hyde Company
ORACAL is a registered trademark of LIG International, Inc.
OptiMount is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Palmolive Liquid is a registered trademark of Colgate Palmolive.
PEEK is a trademark of Victrex PLC.
Pillocore is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Plexiglas is a registered trademark Elf Atochem, S.A.
Polypenco is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic
Products.
Print Guard is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Print Shield is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
ProSeal is a trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Proteus is a registered trademark of Poly Hi Solidur, Inc.
Quick Stik is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Radel is a registered trademark of BP Amoco.
Ryton is a registered trademark of Phillips Petroleum Company.
Sanalite is a registered trademark of Poly Hi Solidur, Inc.
Scotchcal is a trademark of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing
Company.
Seal is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Semitron is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
SilGlaze is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
SilPruf is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
Single Step is a registered trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Sintra is a registered trademark of Alusuisse Composites, Inc.
Solvay is a registered trademark of Solvay.
Spar-Cal is a registered trademark of Spartan International, Inc.
Spectar is a trademark of Eastman Chemical.
Spray ’N Wash is a registered trademark of Proctor & Gamble.
Stoplight is a trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Techtron is a registered trademark of DSM Engineering Plastic Products.
Teflon is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and
Company.
Tend is a registered trademark of Regal Plastic Supply Company
Tivar is a registered trademark of Poly Hi Solidur, Inc.
ThermaShield is a trademark of Hunt Corporation.
Thermoclear is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
3M is a registered trademark of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing
Company.
Top Job is a registered trademark of Proctor & Gamble.
Torlon is a registered trademark of BP Amoco.
Tremco is a registered trademark of Tremco, Inc.
Ultem is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
Ultraform is a registered trademark of BASF.
UltraGlaze is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
UltraPruf is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
Valox is a registered trademark of General Electric Company.
Vekton is a registered trademark of Chemplast, Inc.
Vulkem is a registered trademark of MAMECO International, Inc.
Windex with Ammonia D is a registered trademark of the Drackett
Products Company.
Wisk is a registered trademark of the Drackett Products Company.
Zytel is a registered trademark of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company.
233
APPENDIX
Acknowledgements
The following companies have assisted in the development of this plastics reference guide by
providing product specific and general technical information.
A. L. Hyde Company
International Paper Company
Alusuisse Composites, Inc.
Kleerdex Company
Coroplast Division, Great Pacific
Enterprises
Kömmerling USA, Inc.
ORACAL®
Cyberbond L.L.C.
CYRO Industries
DSM Engineering Plastic
Products
Polycast High Performance
Plastics, Inc.
Poly Hi Solidur, Inc.
R Tape Corporation
Sheffield Plastics, Inc.
Seeyle, Inc.
Elf Atochem North America, Inc.,
atoglas™ division
Shin-Etsu Silicones of America, Inc.
Ensinger Engineering Products
SPAR-CAL®
General Electric Company
GE Structured Products
GE Silicones
Thermoplastic Processes, Inc.
Hunt Corporation
W. F. Lake Corporation
I.A.P.D. (International Association
of Plastic Distributors)
Wegner North America, Inc.
Tremco®, Inc.
Zeus Industrial Products
Ineos Acrylics
234
CUSTOMER SERVICE AND PRODUCT
ALL UNDER ONE ROOF.
Portland
La Crosse
Waterloo
San Francisco
Denver
Denver
Colorado Springs
Los Angeles
San Diego Phoenix
Tijuana
Mexicali
Albuquerque
Juarez
El Paso
Des Moines
Omaha
N. Kansas City
Kansas City St. Louis
Springfield
Wichita
Joplin
Tulsa
Nashville
Oklahoma
City
Ft. Worth
Dallas
Dallas
Austin
Houston
San Antonio
Shreveport
Shreveport
Baton Rouge
Divisional Corporate Offices
Stocking Branches
Film Conversion Centers
PLASTIC

plastic - Regal Plastics

Transcription

Similar documents

Utrecht Art Supplies Studio Craft: Gloss Medium as a Varnish

Eurovent 2012 - Black Country Awnings

full profile PDF.

CONVERGENCE - Sydney Children`s Hospital Foundation

EurovEnt quality features

to workshop details

Coating Systems Technical Manual

klear koat voc - Custom Match Colors