The plastics we cut and fabricate most often, their typical applications, and the processes suited to each.
| Material | Laser cutting | CNC routing | Cut to size | Diamond polishing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Polycarbonate | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| PETG | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Foam PVC | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aluminium composite | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Acrylic rods and tubes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Corflute | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| ABS | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| HDPE | No | Yes | Yes | No |
Photo slot: mat-acrylic.jpgAlso known as Perspex or Plexiglas
Acrylic is the most versatile plastic we work with. Clear acrylic is lighter than glass and considerably tougher, and it is also available in colours, opal (diffused, for lightboxes) and mirror finishes. It laser cuts with a polished edge, routes cleanly, bends with heat and accepts an excellent diamond polished edge.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-polycarbonate.jpgOften sold as Lexan or Makrolon
Polycarbonate is the preferred choice where impact strength matters. It is many times tougher than acrylic and extremely difficult to break, which is why it is used for guards, protective screens and glazing in high traffic areas. We cut it on the router or saw rather than the laser.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-petg.jpgPETG is a tough, clear sheet that is easy to form and fabricate. It is widely used for retail display and point of sale work because it resists impact well and can be cold bent without cracking.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-pvc.jpgAlso known as Foamex or Palight
A lightweight, rigid board with a smooth matte surface that prints and paints well, making it an economical choice for indoor signage and display. PVC must never be laser cut, so we always route or saw it.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-acm.jpgACM or ACP, often sold as Alpolic or Alucobond
Two thin aluminium skins bonded to a plastic core, producing a flat, rigid and weatherproof panel that is light to handle. It is the industry standard for outdoor sign panels and can be V grooved and folded into trays and returns.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-rods.jpgSolid rods and hollow tubes in clear acrylic, cut to length to suit. Ends can be polished for a clean, finished look.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-corflute.jpgFluted polypropylene sheet
A light, economical and weather resistant fluted sheet. It is the standard choice for short term outdoor signage and is also used as protective sheeting on building sites.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-abs.jpgAcrylonitrile butadiene styrene
ABS is a tough, impact resistant plastic that machines well and holds its shape. It is commonly used for panels, enclosures and parts that must withstand regular handling.
Common uses
Photo slot: mat-hdpe.jpgHigh density polyethylene
HDPE resists moisture and most chemicals and has a low friction surface. This makes it well suited to cutting boards, wear strips, marine fittings and parts used in wet or harsh conditions.
Common usesTell us what the part needs to do and where it will be used, and we will recommend a suitable sheet and thickness.