Acrylic Sheets: How to Choose the Right Product?

At first glance, it’s hard to tell one acrylic sheet from another. However, this material comes in various versions, all suitable for specific purposes. Commonly known as “Plexiglass,” did you know that acrylic is lighter and easier to work with than glass, and it can withstand more significant impacts? To learn more about the different types of acrylic sheets and how to choose the ones that suit you, here’s our condensed information on this super material!

Acrylic Sheets: What Are They Used For?

Available in various shades, opacities, and thicknesses, acrylic sheets are prized for their versatility. In commercial settings, it’s their transparency and durability that are appreciated. They are used, for example, to create sturdy showcases and displays that highlight products. In the signage, advertising, decor, and interior design industry, it’s their optical properties that allow them to be integrated into the production of some lighting systems. In other sectors, they are used for the design of protective screens, whether it’s barrier dividers in medical environments or to protect computer screens and furniture and accessories. And if your project is outdoors? No problem. Resistant to weather and UV rays, plexiglass is an excellent choice for outdoor applications: signs, signage, or architectural elements. As a bonus, acrylic is malleable and can be easily modified according to your needs. It can be drilled, cut, painted, or transformed using a heat source.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Use

Let’s recap: lightweight, durable, weather-resistant, and chemical-resistant, acrylic panels are suitable for many purposes. But if you have two products from the same range, how do you know which one to choose? Our expertise is at your service. At Industries FM, our advisors will guide you to offer the product with the specifications that suit your project. Indeed, although some products may appear similar, they are designed to meet certain domains and uses and must be carefully selected to meet your expectations. For example, let’s examine the difference between translucent acrylic sheets 2447 and 7328, materials commonly used in signage and lighting projects.

It’s essential to know that the most significant difference between acrylic sheets 2447 and 7328 is their light-filtering capacity. Acrylic 2447 allows more light to pass through than plexiglass 7328. Therefore, it’s a good choice for projects requiring backlighting, such as light tables or X-ray devices. Acrylic 7328, on the other hand, is less translucent. Although it allows some light to pass through, it filters out a significant portion. Outdoors, it protects the surfaces it covers from UV rays. It’s suitable for making posters, billboards, or signs. This is just one concrete example that proves the world of acrylic is diverse but complex. Make sure to seek expert advice to make the right choices for your projects.

Some Installation and Assembly Tips for Your Acrylic Projects

Due to its lightweight nature, acrylic sheets are generally quite easy to install. Nevertheless, it’s important to know some basics to maximize your chances of success. First, note that your sheet will likely come with a protective film. Keep it on until the end of the transformation and installation process; this limits the risk of scratches and damage. It also protects the acrylic sheet from cracking in case you need to drill it. When gluing, assembling, or attaching acrylic, the first step is to prepare the surface receiving the acrylic sheet. It should be clean, free from any residue or grease, and dry.

These conditions improve the sheet’s adhesion. Next, choose the right method for assembly and attachment. Ensure that you use the right type of glue, screws, double-sided adhesive, or silicone. These details vary depending on the surface receiving the sheet. Industries FM also distributes suitable adhesives and glues; our experts can advise you on choosing the adhesive that will maximize the success of your projects. In terms of maintenance, it’s important to note that you should use gentle, non-abrasive products to keep the surface as intact as possible. Cleaning products containing ammonia should be avoided, as they react with acrylic and can alter the surface.

Why Trust the Expertise and Acrylic Products of Industries FM?

Industries FM takes pride in collaborating with quality suppliers. These partnerships have been built over our thirty-five years of existence, by carefully listening to our customers’ needs and feedback on our products. Our company offers numerous options of acrylic sheets in different shades, opacities, and thicknesses. Since applications are diverse, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of advisors because we are confident that we can help you find exactly the product you need. Contact us.