CNC machining acrylic
CNC Machining Acrylic refers to the process of using computer numerical control (CNC) equipment to perform precise path milling, cutting, turning, and other operations on acrylic (chemical name: polymethyl methacrylate, PMMA) material through pre-programmed digital sequences. This enables the automated, high-precision manufacturing of acrylic components or finished products.
Overview
Price : 10~200 USD / pcs
Lead time : 1~5 days
Minimum Wall thickness : 2 mm
Tolerance : ±0.003 mm
Max part size : 2000 mm*1000 mm*1000 mm
Available acrylic in Weldo ：Transparent, translucent, colored, preset textures Acrylic, sheets, rods, tubes
Acrylic material Features
Acrylic is a thermoplastic with a light transmittance of 92%-95%, close to that of glass, and a density that is lighter than glass. It is harder than ordinary plastics but weaker than metal and is relatively easy to scratch. It has a certain degree of tensile strength, but its overall toughness is not as good as some engineering plastics. It is a brittle material and has good weather resistance and chemical corrosion resistance, but it will be dissolved or corroded by some organic solvents (such as acetone and chloroform). It is mainly used for precision processing into display screen protective covers, instrument housings, medical device housings, etc.
| Density | Tensile Strength | Fatigue Strength | Hardness | Elongation at Break |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.17–1.20 g/cm³ | 50–75 MPa | 15–25 MPa | 80–100 HRM | 2–5% |
Surface finish options for acrylic part
| Process | Description |
|---|---|
| Polishing | Flame polishing, wheel polishing, or diamond polishing to eliminate fine scratches and surface unevenness, improving overall gloss and transparency. |
| Coating | Hardening, anti-glare, or anti-fingerprint coatings applied to the acrylic surface through vacuum coating or surface coating to form a functional protective layer. |
| Printing | Screen printing or UV printing to apply patterns, logos, or text directly onto the acrylic surface. |
| Sandblasting | High-pressure air sprays sand particles (such as carborundum or glass sand) onto the acrylic surface to create a rough texture and frosted visual effect. |
| Texture | Engraving or embossing treatments using CNC engraving or laser engraving, or pressing through molds with predefined textures to create various surface texture effects. |
Pro and cons of cnc machining acrylic
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Advantages | 1. High precision (0.01–0.1 mm), capable of machining complex shapes and fine details.2. High level of automation, suitable for mass production with stable efficiency.3. Supports cutting, milling, engraving, and various other processes; adaptable to different forms of acrylic (sheets / rods).4. Machined surfaces are flat and neat; post-processing is simple (e.g., light polishing).5. Flexible design capabilities, allowing quick response to drawing modifications. |
| Disadvantages | 1. High equipment and maintenance costs, requiring large initial investment.2. Requires skilled personnel for programming; parameter setup demands high precision.3. Material brittleness varies; improper cutting may easily cause cracking.4. Poor heat dissipation; high temperatures can lead to deformation.5. Machining complex parts may reduce efficiency and increase cost. |
Application of cnc machining acrylic part
Advertising & Display Industry
Production of light boxes, display stands, signboards, direction signs, and exhibition props.
Acrylic has excellent light transmission and smooth edges after cutting, making it ideal for brand displays.
Electronics & Optical Products
Transparent housings, screen panels, and protective covers.
Optical-grade acrylic can be used for lenses, light guides, and lampshades.
Medical Equipment
Transparent panels, test boxes, fluid channels, and housing parts for medical devices.
Acrylic is non-toxic and resistant to chemical corrosion, often used in medical and laboratory equipment.
Automotive & Transportation
Instrument panels, lampshades, and interior decorative parts.
CNC machining ensures high precision and smooth surfaces.
Architecture & Interior Decoration
Acrylic partitions, decorative panels, and artistic carvings.
With strong light transmission and customizability, acrylic is often used as a safer alternative to glass.
Consumer Goods & Gifts
Trophies, customized crafts, phone holders, and cosmetic display boxes.
CNC machining enables complex shapes and smooth edges.
Prototyping & Industrial Components
Prototypes and small-batch functional parts.
Suitable for industrial parts requiring transparency or insulation.
Cnc machining acrylic FAQ
What is acrylic CNC machining?
Acrylic CNC machining is a precision manufacturing process that uses computer-controlled machines to cut, mill, or engrave acrylic sheets and blocks into customized shapes and components.
Can CNC machining make acrylic parts transparent and polished?
Yes. With proper CNC machining combined with post-processing techniques such as flame polishing or buffing, acrylic parts can achieve glass-like transparency and a flawless finish.
What thickness of acrylic can be CNC machined?
CNC machining can handle a broad range of acrylic thicknesses, typically from 1 mm to over 100 mm, depending on the machine’s capabilities and project requirements.
