Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rod
- SKU:
- AC355
Description
Cast Acrylic Round Rod Description
Acrylic, commonly referred to by trade names such as Plexiglass, Lucite, Perspex, Acrylite, and Optix, is a highly versatile plastic material known for its durability and wide range of applications. Originally developed in 1928 and introduced to the market by Rohm and Haas Company in 1933, acrylic gained significant importance during World War II, being used in products like airplane windows, canopies, and turrets. Today, it remains a popular choice in various industries due to its strength and clarity.
The Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rod is an exceptionally durable product, boasting 10 times the strength of glass. Its resistance to high pressure, impact, and environmental factors like weather and temperature make it an ideal alternative to traditional glass. These rods are flexible enough to be shatter-resistant yet maintain their rigidity, offering a balance of flexibility and strength. Suitable for a range of applications, cast acrylic rods are often preferred for their superior quality compared to extruded acrylic, particularly in shaping, machining, and laser cutting.
Overview
Overview
Cast Acrylic is known for its higher molecular weight, making it a better choice for projects that require precision in shaping, machining, or laser cutting. Unlike extruded acrylic, which is produced by continuously pushing acrylic mass through a form, cast acrylic is created by mixing liquid ingredients in molds, resulting in a homogeneous material. This manufacturing process gives cast acrylic superior quality, though it is often more expensive than extruded acrylic.
Applications
Applications
The Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rod is versatile and can be used in various applications, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits:
- Arts & Crafts
- Signage & Displays
- Model Making & Prototyping
- Aquarium Tanks & Water Features
- Architectural & Interior Design Elements
- Decorative Accents & Installations
The images below showcase the use of Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rods in architectural applications, such as custom banisters and stair railings, demonstrating both the material's versatility and its modern aesthetic appeal:
Key Features
Key Features
- Superior Durability: 10 times stronger than glass, providing exceptional impact resistance.
- Optical Clarity: Offers 92% light transmittance, ensuring maximum transparency and brightness.
- Weather Resistance: Withstands extreme temperatures and UV exposure, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Flexibility with Rigidity: Shatter-resistant yet maintains structural integrity under pressure.
- High-Quality Manufacturing: Cast acrylic is homogeneous, providing better quality for shaping and machining.
- Lightweight: Half the weight of glass, making it easier to handle and install.
Maintenance
Maintenance
Maintaining the clarity and quality of your Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rod is easy:
- Clean with a mild soap and water solution using a soft cloth.
- Polish with specialized acrylic cleaners like the Novus polishing kit to remove light scratches and restore shine.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or rough cloths that could scratch the surface.
- Store in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from excessive heat or humidity.
Technical Specifications
Technical Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Specific Gravity | 1.19 g/cm³ |
| Light Transmission | 92% |
| Water Absorption (24 hours) | 0.2% |
| Rockwell Hardness | M-94 |
| Tensile Strength | 10,000 psi (69 MPa) |
| Flexural Strength | 16,500 psi (114 MPa) |
| Vicat Softening Point | 239°F (115°C) |
| Heat Deflection Temperature | 210°F (99°C) |
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I clean Acrylic rods?
A: Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the surface.
Q: Can Acrylic rods be customized?
A: Yes, Acrylic rods can be easily cut, shaped, and polished to custom specifications using standard tools. Cast acrylic is particularly well-suited for machining and laser cutting due to its higher molecular weight.
Q: Is Cast Acrylic UV resistant?
A: Yes, Cast Acrylic is UV stabilized, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications where exposure to sunlight is a factor. It maintains clarity and strength even under prolonged UV exposure.
Q: How does Cast Acrylic compare to glass in terms of safety?
A: Cast Acrylic is significantly safer than glass due to its high impact resistance. It is 10 times stronger than glass, making it shatter-resistant and ideal for a wide range of applications, from decorative installations to structural components.
Q: Are Acrylic rods recyclable?
A: Yes, Acrylic is a recyclable material that can be reprocessed and reused, contributing to sustainability efforts. Recycling acrylic helps reduce environmental impact while conserving resources.
Q: What are common applications for Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rods?
A: Acrylic Cast Clear Round Rods are commonly used in arts & crafts, signage, model making, and aquarium tanks. They are also ideal for architectural applications such as custom railings, as well as decorative accents in home and commercial spaces.