Clear acrylic (PMMA) is a lightweight, optically clear plastic often used as a glass alternative.

Cast Acrylic:

• Higher optical clarity and premium finish
• Better chemical resistance
• Easier to machine and polish
• Ideal for fabrication, signage, and architectural applications

Extruded Acrylic:

• More cost-effective
• Consistent thickness
• Easier to thermoform
• Slightly lower strength and chemical resistance

👉 Summary:
Use cast acrylic for high-quality fabrication and durability
Use extruded acrylic for cost-sensitive, high-volume applications

Polycarbonate is an extremely strong engineering plastic used where safety is critical.

• Up to 250 times stronger than glass
• Virtually unbreakable — does not shatter
• Lightweight compared to glass
• Available with General Purpose version, UV-resistant coatings (UV2), Abrasion resistant for outdoor durability
• Excellent for security and high-impact environments

👉 Common uses:

• Safety glazing
• Machine guards
• Mining and industrial equipment
• Roofing and outdoor structures

Engineering plastics are high-performance materials designed for mechanical and industrial applications.

Common types include:

• Nylon (PA)
• Acetal (POM)
• HDPE / UHMWPE
• PTFE (Teflon)

Why they are used:

• High strength and wear resistance
• Low friction properties
• Chemical resistance
• Excellent heat resistance
• Lightweight alternative to metal

👉 Typical applications:

• Bushings, rollers, and wear strips
• Conveyor components
• Marine and mining parts
• Food processing equipment

Acrylic mirror is a lightweight, shatter-resistant alternative to glass mirror.

Benefits:

• Up to 50% lighter than glass
• Safer — will not shatter into dangerous shards
• Easy to cut and fabricate
• Suitable for large panels

👉 Common uses:

• Retail displays and shopfitting
• Gym and dance studio mirrors
• Decorative panels
• Transport and caravans

Standard Polycarbonate:

• Extremely high impact strength
• Can scratch more easily

Abrasion-Resistant Polycarbonate (Hard-Coated):

• Enhanced scratch and chemical resistance
• Longer lifespan in harsh environments
• Maintains clarity over time

👉 Best used for:

• Mining equipment windows
• High-traffic public areas
• Industrial glazing

Polycarbonate mirror is a virtually unbreakable reflective sheet designed for safety-critical environments.

Key advantages:

• Impact-resistant and vandal-resistant
• Will not shatter or create sharp edges
• Can be securely fixed to prevent tampering

👉 Commonly used in:

• Mental health facilities
• Correctional centres and prisons
• Hospitals and aged care
• Secure public environments

👉 Ideal for anti-ligature design, where safety and harm prevention are critical.

Proper handling and cutting ensure clean finishes and prevent damage.

Handling Tips:

• Keep protective film on during fabrication
• Store flat and away from heat
• Avoid scratching surfaces

Cutting Guidelines:

• Use the correct blade:
  • Acrylic: Fine-tooth blade (triple-chip grind)
  • Polycarbonate: Carbide-tipped blade
  • Engineering plastics: Depends on material density
• Use:
  • Table saw or panel saw for straight cuts
  • CNC router for precision work
  • Laser cutting (acrylic only, not polycarbonate) (Talk to us)

👉 Always use proper speed, support, and cooling to avoid melting or chipping.

Yes — absolutely. Acrylic and polycarbonate sheets are very DIY-friendly materials and can be easily fabricated at home with basic tools and the right approach.