Acrylic Machining Services: PMMA Parts
Acrylic CNC machining combines advanced computer-controlled precision with one of the most versatile transparent materials available today. This manufacturing process delivers exceptional clarity, dimensional accuracy, and surface finish for custom acrylic components across industries.
Our specialized approach to machining acrylic ensures consistent quality and precision for every component.
Various Options
Functionality
Cost-effectiveness
| Property | Value | Notes |
| Tensile Strength | 65-75 MPa | Higher than many other thermoplastics |
| Melting Point | 160°C (320°F) | Critical for machining parameters |
| Elongation at Break | 3-10% | Limited flexibility compared to other plastics |
| Hardness | 90-95 (Rockwell M) | Excellent surface hardness |
| Density | 1.18 g/cm³ | Approximately half the weight of glass |
| Light Transmission | 92% | Exceptional clarity for transparent grades |
| UV Resistance | Excellent | Minimal yellowing over time |
About Acrylic (PMMA) Material
Acrylic, technically known as Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA), is a transparent thermoplastic polymer often referred to as plexiglass in commercial applications.
This versatile material offers exceptional optical clarity while being significantly lighter and more impact-resistant than traditional glass. Its molecular structure provides a unique combination of transparency, weather resistance, and machinability that makes it ideal for precision manufacturing.
Advantages of Acrylic
- Exceptional optical clarity (92% light transmission)
- Lightweight (50% lighter than glass)
- Excellent weather and UV resistance
- Superior machinability compared to glass
- High dimensional stability
- Good electrical insulation properties
- Available in transparent, translucent, and opaque variants
- Biocompatible for medical applications
Restrictions of Acrylic
- Prone to stress cracking during machining
- Susceptible to scratching without protective coatings
- Limited temperature resistance (softens at 160°C)
- Lower impact resistance than polycarbonate
- Can develop crazing under improper machining
- Not suitable for high-stress mechanical applications
- Vulnerable to certain solvents and chemicals
Acrylic (PMMA) CNC Machining at a Glance
CNC Machining Processes for Acrylic
CNC Milling
Ideal for creating complex geometries, pockets, and surface features in acrylic sheets and blocks. Our multi-axis CNC mills achieve tolerances of ±0.1mm with exceptional surface finish.
CNC Turning
Perfect for cylindrical acrylic components with precise diameters and profiles. CNC lathes produce smooth surfaces on acrylic rods with minimal post-processing requirements.
CNC Drilling
Specialized drilling operations with controlled feed rates prevent cracking and chipping around hole edges, ensuring clean through-holes and threaded features.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Capability | Notes |
| Standard Tolerance | ±0.1 mm (±0.004″) | Tighter tolerances available upon request |
| Precision Tolerance | ±0.05 mm (±0.002″) | For critical dimensions |
| Minimum Wall Thickness | 1.0 mm (0.039″) | Depends on part geometry and height |
| Maximum Part Size | 600×400×300 mm | Larger parts possible with multiple setups |
| Surface Roughness | Ra 0.8 μm | Before finishing operations |
| Available Colors | Clear, Black, White, Custom | Transparent, translucent, and opaque options |
| Thread Sizes | M2 to M8 | Self-tapping or machine threads |
Key Considerations for CNC Machining Acrylic
Successful acrylic CNC machining requires attention to specific parameters and techniques.
Our manufacturing experts follow these best practices to ensure optimal results:
Cutting Tool Selection
Cooling and Chip Evacuation
Feed Rate and Speed Control
Proper feed rate settings are critical when machining acrylic. We maintain higher feed rates with moderate spindle speeds to prevent material melting while ensuring clean cuts.
Workholding Techniques
Expert Tip
When machining acrylic, maintaining sharp tools is critical. Dull cutting edges generate excessive heat that can cause melting, poor surface finish, and stress cracking. We regularly replace and maintain our tooling to ensure optimal cutting performance.
Finishing Options for CNC Machined Acrylic
After CNC machining, acrylic parts often require finishing operations to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional properties.
Edge Polishing
Mechanical or flame polishing techniques restore optical clarity to machined edges, creating glass-like transparency. This process removes tool marks and produces a smooth, reflective surface finish.
Surface Treatments
Options include matte finishing, frost effects, and anti-glare treatments. These processes modify light reflection and transmission properties while maintaining dimensional accuracy.
Protective Coatings
Application of scratch-resistant or UV-protective coatings enhances durability and extends product lifespan, particularly for outdoor applications or high-traffic environments.
Painting & Printing
Custom color application and graphic printing for branding, information display, or decorative purposes. Our specialized acrylic paints ensure excellent adhesion and durability.
Bonding & Assembly
Precision bonding of multiple acrylic components using solvent cements or UV-curable adhesives. Creates seamless joints with strength approaching that of the base material.
Laser Engraving
High-precision marking and engraving for text, logos, scales, or decorative patterns. Creates permanent markings with exceptional detail and contrast.
Common Applications for Acrylic CNC Parts
The exceptional properties of CNC machined acrylic make it ideal for numerous applications across diverse industries.
Our precision manufacturing capabilities deliver custom components for:
Medical
Surgical instruments and tools
Drug delivery devices
Medical device housings
Disposable medical products
Retail & Display
Product showcases
Illuminated signage
Museum exhibits
Trade show components
Industrial & Scientific
Optical components
Instrument panels
Protective guards
Inspection windows
Automotive & Transportation
Light covers and diffusers
Display screens
Prototype components
Custom interior elements
Architecture & Design
Decorative panels
Scale models
Furniture components
Artistic installations
Electronics & Lighting
Device enclosures
Control panel overlays
Display screens
Prototype housings
Ready to Start Your Acrylic CNC Project?
Upload your design files for a free quote or contact our engineering team for design assistance.
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