Acrylic Sheet Softening Temperature

What is the softening temperature of acrylic sheet.

Acrylic sheet softening temperature.

Clear plastic can refer to a wide range of synthetic compounds with varying strengths melting points and other properties. The forming temperature range is between 290 f and 320 f 143 c and 160 c. Temperatures can be off as much as 75 f 42 c possibly allowing the acrylic to overheat. It is sheet temperature that dictates the process the end result being not just a better product but also decreased cycle time less scrap less floor space and reduced energy and labor costs.

Note the special considerations section for plexiglas mc acrylic sheet on page 9. Apply the protective covering. It will soften if heated above 80 c. Apply the protective covering on both sides of the acrylic sheet and the area that needs to be softened.

A wide variety of colors are usually available. Overhead racks for hanging sheets may be equipped with tracks and trolleys leading to forming equipment to facilitate handling of the sheet. Considerable heat can be generated by machining causing stress so it is therefore very important that heat build up is kept to a minimum. Acrylic is available in sheet stock and round stock making it a good candidate for subtractive machining processes on a mill or lathe.

Acrylite ff sheet will soften as the temperature is increased above 195 f 91 c. These gases are potentially explosive if allowed to collect in an unventilated area. For thicker sheets it will take longer and for thinner sheets it will take less time. While acrylic softens at higher temperatures it does not actually melt until it reaches 320 f 160 c.

Poly methyl methacrylate pmma also known as acrylic acrylic glass or plexiglass as well as by the trade names crylux plexiglas acrylite astariglas lucite perclax and perspex among several others see below is a transparent thermoplastic often used in sheet form as a lightweight or shatter resistant alternative to glass the same material can be used as a casting resin or in inks. As the temperature is increased the sheet passes through the thermoelastic state to the thermoplastic state. Acrylic sheets should be hung vertically from racks. Modify the timing as necessary.

Acrylic sheets give off highly flammable fumes when decomposed overheating. How do i clean acrylic. Most kitchen ovens do not have accurate temperature control. The only major variable that can affect the forming process is the thickness of the plastic sheet.

Sheet temperature is one of the most critical elements of the thermoforming process. This article uses a sheet about 1 4 thick so all times are about 10 to 15 minutes per step. Acrylic for prototype development on cnc machines and 3d printers. Therefore acrylic is more ideal for most interior and exterior design purposes.