In this sort of FAQ style article, we cover a handful of key FAQs surrounding Perspex and acrylic. As experts in plastic fabrication and manufacturing, Hampshire Plastics is well-placed to answer these questions.
In this article we cover:
- What is Perspex acrylic?
- Is acrylic plastic the same as Perspex?
- What is best, Perspex or acrylic?
- Is acrylic cheaper than Perspex?
- What is the best tool to cut Perspex with?
- Does acrylic scratch easily?
- What is acrylic used for in a commercial environment?
Let us get started with the article.
What is Perspex acrylic?
Perspex is a premium form of acrylic.
Perspex® acrylic is a trade name of Lucite International.
From a technical perspective, Perspex is a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) acrylic sheet and formed from methyl methacrylate monomer (MMA).
It is a quality, durable type of acrylic that is formed through a complicated scientific process.
For information and for a comprehensive understanding of this premium acrylic, head over to the main Perspex website.
Is acrylic plastic the same as Perspex?
Perspex® and acrylic are the same thing.
You may not know this but Perspex® acrylic is a branded premium type of acrylic. It is manufactured to the highest industry standards and has a formidable reputation for being incredibly durable.
What is best Perspex or acrylic?
As discussed in the first FAQ, Perspex® is the same as acrylic.
So instead of discussing which is better, let us look at the overall benefits. Perspex® is
- Highly impact resistant
- It is flexible in where it can be applied
- Excellent if you are looking for clarity & transparency.
- Incredibly resistant to changes in temperature
Related article: What are the benefits and advantages of Perspex®?
Is acrylic cheaper than Perspex?
Perspex is a premium form of acrylic. Therefore, it will carry a more premium price against that of other acrylics.
As the old saying goes, if you buy cheap, you buy twice.
Therefore, if you are looking for a quality item, made from acrylic, Perspex would be a solid option.
What is the best tool to cut Perspex with?
When it comes to cutting Perspex, we would recommend using a Jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade.
There are a few other tools to use and recommendations we would make when cutting Perspex.
They are a:
- Ruler, straight edge, and marker pen.
- Pair of quality safety glasses.
- Flat work surface
- Clamp – this is optional depending on the size of the Perspex panel
Does acrylic scratch easily?
Acrylic can scratch a little easily, for sure.
However, like anything you buy if you take care of it, it will not get scratched that easily.
Nevertheless, you need to think about the setting you are going to use it in.
If you need an item or product for use in a rugged environment, you will need to either accept it will get scratched or choose something like coated vinyl.
What is acrylic used for in a commercial environment?
There are various products made from acrylic / Perspex.
Perspex is durable, weather resistant and offers fantastic transparency if required – for example for boat windows, medical devices, and more.
Some of the products that Perspex is used for includes:
- Furniture
- Boat windows
- Boat screens
- Staircases
- Facias
- Retail exhibitions
- Laboratory products
- Barriers
- Medical devices
- Lenses
- Splashbacks
As you can see, the lists are endless!
Related reading
Here are a couple of articles covering how acrylic is the perfect choice when manufacturing commercial products and items:
