Acrylic for CNC Machining
Acrylic is a clear thermoplastic known for its exceptional strength, rigidity, and optical transparency.
Updated: 8/20/26
Acrylic
Acrylic is a clear thermoplastic known for its exceptional strength, rigidity, and optical clarity. It is simple to manufacture, adheres well with adhesives and solvents, and is straightforward to thermoform. It offers superior weather resistance compared to many other clear plastics. Acrylic sheets possess glass-like qualities—clarity, brilliance, and transparency—but are half the weight and have significantly greater impact resistance than glass.
In addition to providing outstanding versatility, durability, and aesthetic qualities, acrylic can be easily machined into different shapes and sizes, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities.
Performance Characteristics
- Easy to fabricate and machine
- Good dimensional stability
- Strong, stiff, optically clear
- Easy to solvent bond
- Good weathering
Common Brands
- OPTIX
- Plexiglas
- ACRYLITE
Acrylic Properties
- Mechanical Properties
- Thermal Properties
- Electrical Properties
- Optical Properties
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Mechanical Properties
Tensile Strength 10,000 psi Tensile Modulus of Elasticity 400,000 psi Tensile Elongation 4.5% Flexural Strength 17,000 psi Flexural Modulus of Elasticity 480,000 psi Compressive Strength 17,000 psi Hardness (Rockwell) M95 Izod Impact 0.4 ft-lbs/in -
Thermal Properties
Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion 4.0in/in/°F x 10-5 Heat Deflection Temperature (66 psi/264 psi) - / 195 °F Max Continuous Service Temperature in Air 160 °F -
Electrical Properties
Dielectric Strength 430 V/mil -
Optical Properties
Light Transmittance 92% Haze 2%