Cast Acrylic - Clear
☀ UV Stable
⬡ Chemical Resistant
80
°C
Max Service
Overview
Cast acrylic (PMMA) in clear. Diode lasers struggle with clear acrylic (450nm wavelength transmits through it). CO2 lasers excel - produce fire-polished edges. Always cast, not extruded.
Properties
Difficulty
intermediate
Flexibility
rigid
Enclosure
recommended
Dry Storage
no
Pros
- Excellent optical clarity (92% light transmission)
- Flame-polished edges when laser cut
- Beautiful frosted engraving
- Can be edge-lit for displays
- UV stable
- Rigid and durable
Cons
- Shows scratches easily
- Can crack under stress
- Generates heat when machined
- More expensive than extruded
Best For
- Display signs
- edge-lit panels
- clear enclosures
- awards and trophies (CO2 laser)
Avoid For
- Diode laser cutting
- extruded acrylic (always use cast)
- acrylic under 2mm (warps)
Storage
Keep protective backing on until ready to use. Store flat to prevent warping.
Laser Compatibility
Clear cast acrylic engraves frosted white appearance. CO2: engrave 200mm/s 25-40W, cut 3mm 15mm/s 80W. Diode: engrave 150mm/s 80%. Flame polished edges after cutting. Ventilate well.
Brands
InventablesGlowforge ProofgradeJumpingBoltTAP Plastics