Acrylics Tips and Advice

Using Plexiglas to add Depth and Texture in Photography

2012-01-18T07:17:00.000-08:00

Plexiglas can be used in various ways. It is a great option for aquariums, doors, windows, and even home decor. Another excellent way to use plexiglas is in photography.

Have you ever seen photographs where there is a mirrored reflection of the subject? The photographer used plexiglas to perfect this technique. This adds to acrylic product's versatility.

A single sheet of plexiglas can be used by photographers to give their image depth and texture. This technique is widely used in jewelry photography. A white glossy acrylic sheet can be used to create a soft reflection of a subject. A silver frost acrylic sheet can also obtain the same results. On the other hand, a black glossy acrylic sheet can create a sharp dramatic reflection of the subject.

Durability and flexibility are not the only qualities that Plexiglas can offer. It also makes an eye catching contribution to art and creativity.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions personally.

Using Acrylics as Alternatives for Doors and Windows

2011-12-15T05:49:00.000-08:00

Plexiglas is perfect for use for storm doors, windows, bath enclosures, shower doors, and skylights. There are many advantages for choosing Plexiglas over glass for these household fixtures. It is tougher than glass and more impact resistant. Baseballs are likely to just bounce off plexiglass where glass will most likely shatter. This makes plexiglas safer because it breaks into larger, dull-edged pieces which are not as dangerous as shattered glass.

For eco-conscious households, plexiglas is a perfect choice. Not only can it be recycled, but it also insulates better than glass. Plexiglas made with the same thickness as glass has four times the thermal resistance potentially saving hundreds in homeowner energy bills.

These favourable qualities along with its light weight and ability to be shaped easily offer endless possibilities.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions personally.

Acrylic / Plexiglass as an Alternative to Glass Aquariums or Refugiums

2011-11-11T09:05:00.000-08:00

Clear Acrylic / Plexiglass is an excellent choice for Aquarium tanks or Refugiums. It can be used for both saltwater and freshwater fish and is just as attractive as any glass aquarium available on the market today.

It is lighter in weight in comparison to glass which makes moving it easier. Unlike glass, you won't have to worry about it shattering if it drops. From a safety aspect this is also much more appealing.

The Acrylic has 25 x the impact strength of glass which will not allow it to break easily like glass. As mentioned above, it is safer. It takes a very strong direct blow on the surface for it to crack.

Acrylic can also be fabricated into different shapes. Such as tubes, half spheres, bubbles ,rectangles and other interesting shapes. From a fabrication stand point the options are limited only by your imagination, and of course Acrylic is much simpler and cost effective to work with than glass.

So before purchasing a tank or refugium, think of the benefits of Acrylic compared to glass. It is a lighter, stronger, safer , cost effective , and a more attractive choice than glass tanks, and can be easily fabricated to a fit a custom requirement with ease.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions personally.

Plexiglas As Display Cases

2011-09-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

Plexiglas is predominantly used for commercial display purposes because of its many advantageous qualities. It is affordable, durable, lightweight, and easy to care for. Cutting Plexiglas is easy and can be transformed according to an individual's requirements. Shopping centers use acrylic display cases to showcase various products like jewelry, collectibles, signs, etc.

Its durability and flexibility of use compared to glass is what attracts many to Plexiglas. For example, a glass display case shatters into sharp fragments while acrylics form larger and harmless fragments if it breaks. Scratches on Plexiglas surface can easily be polished and restored without having to replace the whole sheet. In addition, Plexiglas can be sealed air tight for use in aquariums or other applications. Some Plexiglas display cases can come in kits where it can be assembled by the customer themselves allowing for reduced purchase price and transportation costs.

There are many benefits to choosing Plexiglas over glass display cases. These are just a few of the reasons why Plexiglas is a better choice.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions personally.

Plexiglas in Modern Furniture Applications

2011-08-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

Modern furniture design is popular among business offices and fast becoming a favourite of home designers.

Plexiglas furniture is durable and easy to clean. It is a perfect alternative to glass because it is more resilient. Compared to wood furniture, Plexiglas is easier to maintain because there is no need for special oil cleaners to keep it in good shape. A water and liquid dishwashing detergent solution can be used to clean it without the worry of using harmful chemicals in your home. Mix a teaspoon of detergent per pint of water and it’s ready to use. However, Plexiglas manufacturers do make special cleaners for Plexiglas if you choose to go that route.

Many home designers incorporate the use of Plexiglas in furniture like coffee tables, chairs, tables, and shelving. It can easily be designed for a home owner’s specific taste as well as changing the colour to match the design theme.

There are plenty of options to choose from when deciding on purchasing modern furniture. Adding Plexiglas to your list of furniture ideas will surely make a statement to your office or home design.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions personally

Plexiglas as Fencing for Your Home

2011-07-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

There are plenty of choices for fencing for your home in the market today.

Many suburban households use the tongue-and-groove type of wooden fencing. Although good-looking and offer plenty of privacy, there are alternatives that equally offer the same features, but offer more style. Such as brick, dry stone, hedgerow, and bamboo are just a few of the other options available for fencing. However, all of these work best for a fence that separate you from your neighbors. But what can be used for a fence that can offer safety and still allow you to view inside or outside the perimeter to take advantage of the scenic views? The answer to this is Plexiglas.

Plexiglas is an attractive choice for a fence. It is typically mounted on metal or wood frames and offers the same security as the ones mentioned above. In addition, Plexiglas fences are a great way to let light in while
at the same time keeping wild life out. Adding a Plexiglas fence around a pool is an example of this use. This offers security for children venturing into the pool area and allowing the home owner a clear view of the pool to ensure children have not accidentally gone into the pool area. Other areas of the house that Plexiglas fencing works best in are decks and balconies. This adds a beautiful and modern look to your home. Plexiglas can be tinted in different colors to increase privacy or just for looks.

While there are plenty of fencing options to choose from, Plexiglas fencing proves to be a striking and modern alternative addition to your home.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions
personally.

How to Properly Clean Plexiglas

2011-05-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

The number one mistake people make in cleaning Plexiglas is using the incorrect cleaners. Cleaners such as Windex or 409 can harm acrylic. These cleaners contain alcohol or ammonia that is bad for Plexiglas. In addition, avoid using abrasive pads or stiff brushes because these items will scratch Plexiglas.

To clean Plexiglas, use a solution of water and a small amount of liquid dishwashing detergent. A teaspoon per pint of water would be enough. You can also use products specifically made for Plexiglas. Generously wet a sponge with the water and detergent solution and wipe the Plexiglas surface gently. Use plenty of clean water to wipe off the dirt. Dry the Plexiglas using a soft lint-free cloth.

Knowing how to clean Plexiglas the right way maintains the plastic’s surface and helps you get the most value out of your Plexiglas. Please be sure to visit our showroom, here you can purchase Cleaners & Scratch remover kits designed especially for Acrylics. Click on the link below for our store location:

Link: http://www.acrylicsbydesign.com

How to Cut Plexiglas or Acrylic

2011-04-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

Plexiglas or Acrylic is generally used as an alternative or replacement to glass because it is more resilient. It can also withstand changes between heatand cold temperatures without becoming fragile. It is a much stronger material in comparison to glass. However, Plexiglas or Acrylic should be cut with care to avoid chipping the material which could create weak points in the material itself. Materials today are all UV stabilized, and will last many years, and from a cost stand point, it is a more effective product.

The process below explains how to carefully cut Plexiglas or Acrylics.

Tools required:

* Safety Glasses

* Tape Measure / Ruler

* Sand Paper

* A Table saw / Skill Saw or Jig saw

* Sheet of Plexiglas or Acrylic

For the Table/Skill saw, an 8-10"diameter 80 - 120 tooth carbide blade is your
best choice, it will cut the material leaving behind a clean cut with no chipped

edges, your feed rate on either should be a consistent smooth, cautious feed,

not to slow or fast, and be sure to avoid kick back on the Saws.

For a Jig saw, A fine non melting blade is your best choice, it too will leave
behind a clean cut with no chipped edges, be sure to cut your plastic on a well
supported / stable table with very little of the material hanging over the edge
at the time cutting to reduce vibration with the Jigsaw

Be sure to choose the proper thickness of material suited for your application.
Today there is even a wide variety of Plexiglas or Acrylic colors available to
suit ones need.

Procedure:

1. Measure the Plexiglas or Acrylic sheet for the size you need with the tape

measure or ruler, if your saw has a pre-installed measuring tape on the fence
set it accordingly to the size required. if not, with a pen, mark your acrylic
panel to the size required. Always leave the masking on your panels until you
have completed cutting the product to avoid scratching the material.

2. When you are ready to cut the Plexiglas or Acrylic, remember to choose the

proper blade. Before cutting the material, make sure to wear safety goggles. A
piece of Plexiglas is a much harder material than wood, so exercise caution on
your feed rate as mentioned above. Always be sure to be using sharp blades to

avoid chipping the material. If you notice chip's occurring, you may have to

change to a sharper blade, if chips are of no concern (say you are framing it in
a garage door and the edges will not be seen) here you can utilize the sand
paper to gently take the edge off the sheet.

Your Plexiglas/Acrylic is now cut to size.

Remove the masking from both sides and place in use, if the plexiglass you are
using is old, try a bit of warm water on the masking in aid of removing the
masking.

Plexiglas or Acrylic is most often a better choice than glass.

Knowing how to cut and properly care for your Plexiglas/Acrylic will allow you
to use this material for multitudes of projects and provide years of excellent

wear around the home. Be sure to never clean your Plexiglas or Acrylic with

Windex or any other glass cleaner that contains amonia.

Plexiglas or Acrylic and Cutting Tools

In our showroom at Acrylic By Design Inc. you can find all the above mentioned
materials and tools to complete your home project, such as

* Saw Blades * Jig Saw Blades * Drill Bits * Cements * Cement Applicators *
Polishes * Cleaners

Please note though that we do offer cut to size service while you wait. If you

are not so inclined to take this project on your self, sometimes having the
professionals do it for you far out weigh the cost of purchasing the the tools
required to do the job properly.

This article was written by Wayman Harten, who has almost thirty years
experience working with Plexiglas and Acrylic and other related plastic products. Feel free to contact via email to answer your questions personally.

Basic Bonding Techniques for Plexiglas or Acrylic

2011-03-15T11:12:00.000-07:00

Plexiglas / Acrylic can be bonded using chemical methods which can include adhesives, adhesive tape or cements. These methods are typically used for bonding irregularly shaped or fragile materials. These adhesives ensure a leak proof bond of different materials. The strength of chemical bonds relies on the tensile strength of the bonding agent and or the strength of its adhesion to the substrate. These methods will require a longer cycle time as the adhesive or cement cures. To provide a strong leak-proof bond for like materials, solvent cements should be used in most cases.

A wide variety of universally used adhesives can be used with Plexiglas acrylic resins. Solvents such as polyester, epoxy, and nitrile phenolics, to name a few, are all compatible with Plexiglas. One solvent proven to be most effective and widely used solution for bonding Plexiglas is Methylene dichloride.

The chemical bond strength relies upon the material and bonding agent used, joint design and the type of load. The bond strength is stronger when compatible materials are loaded or evenly distributed over the maximum possible area.

This article was brought to you by Acrylics By Design, Inc.

Common Applications of Lexan Polycarbonate

2011-02-06T11:27:00.000-08:00

You will see the use of Lexan
in common items such as signs.

Lexan is the brand name for polycarbonate sheet and resin in a wide range of grades. It was invented by SABIC Innovative Plastics (formerly known as “General Electric Plastics”) and owns the tradedmark “Lexan”. It is produced by reacting bisphenol A with carbonyl chloride (a.k.a. “phosgene”).

Lexan can be used in three main applications: building (glazing and domes), industry (machine protection and fabricated parts) and communication and signage fabrication. You will see the use of Lexan in common items such as sports helmets, windows, signs, and greenhouses.

Lexan’s resilient properties make it ideal for rugged applications such as clear high performance windshields, aircraft canopies, and bullet resistant windows. NASA used Lexan to produce astronaut helmets in the 1960s including those used by the Apollo moon astronauts.
In the 2000’s, the Lexan product introduced the “Edge Glow” technology. which adds a bright accent to the edges of the materials fabricated which could be used in applications such as CD’s, bottles, and signs.
To find out how you can use Lexan in your own application by contacting Acrylics By Design Inc. today.

How to Modify a Metal-Working Drill Bit for Drilling Acrylic Sheets

2010-10-28T19:23:00.000-07:00

Acrylic sheets are noted for their transparency and resistance to breakage and elasticity. This article will offer you tips on how to properly drill Acrylics using commercially available power driven equipment, such as hand drills, drill presses, automatic multiple-spindle drilling units, portable drills, or lathes.

Acrylic bit versus high speed steel bit.

There are drill bits manufactured specifically for Acrylics, but they are not readily available at any hardware store or larger Consumer stores. However, you can still use metal/wood working, high-speed twist drill bits with a slight bit modification, if you feel comfortable doing so. Most types of drill bits are specially designed to bite into metal or wood when pushed. If they are used as is, metal or wood-working drill bits can and will chip an acrylic sheet. Therefore, they must be reground in order to scrape instead of biting or gouging the sheet.

Hole made by a high speed steel bit.

Hole made by a modified steel bit.

Here are some steps you can follow to modify a standard metal or wood working twist drills in order to work them with acrylic sheets. Please always wear safety glasses before attempting this procedure on your metal grinder at home or in your shop:

The tip angle is usually relatively flat at 120 degrees. Grind this tip angle to a sharp 60 – 70 degrees. At this sharp angle, the bit will easily enter and exit acrylic sheet while avoiding the chances of chipping.
This will allow the drill bit to scrape the acrylic sheet instead of gouging it, grind the cutting edge flat, to a 0 – 4 degree rake angle.
To reduce metal-to-plastic contact and heat build-up, grind the surface behind the cutting edge to clearance angles of 12 – 15 degrees.

If you are using large diameter drill bit tips like 5/8" [16mm] or larger, they should be ground to a point. This “pilot” point will reduce the force required to start a hole when drilling through acrylic sheets. Make sure that the drill bits are true to prevent chipping, melting, and burning. If drill bits are modified correctly and operated at proper speeds, it will create two continuous spiral strips as the bit passes evenly through the acrylic sheet.

Always be sure to drill your Acrylic sheets on a flat well supported surface, such as a wood workbench, this would also stop the drill bit form punching out the other side. If you feel you are not up to the task or do not have time to grind your own bits, be sure to visit our showroom where we have an assortment of Tools such as Acrylic Drill bits for sale.

This tip on how to modify a metal-working drill bit for drilling acrylic sheets was brought to you by Acrylics by Design.