How to use laser cutting on plexiglass

What is plexiglass

Also called Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), plexiglass is a plastic polymer composed of methanol and methacrylic acid. This material is characterized by great strength and transparency and is often used in the commercial field where it is called by different names depending on its composition, which may vary in percentages or in the addition of other components.

Plexiglass is often referred to as XT or GS, abbreviations that indicate the technique with which it was produced: by extrusion in the case of the XT wording and by casting in the case of the GS abbreviation.

Regardless of the different composition or processing technique, all types of plexiglass have common characteristics: 

• it is suitable to be shaped by a heat source (even at low temperatures);
• it can be as transparent as glass, but its breaking point is lower; 
• is a material susceptible to scratches and abrasions;
• is transparent to infrared light.
• In general, plexiglass is increasingly used in the commercial sector and can be easily customised with engravings or holes as needed.

Laser cutting on plexiglass 

Often the laser techniqueis preferred over other types of processing when it comes to plexiglass for several reasons: in the first place, the beam does not compromise the structure of the material and does not change it. In addition, laser cutting on plexiglass guarantees a clean and precise edge, without smudges. Finally, the cutting of plexiglass is a particularly safe process since it does not involve the creation of dangerous gases or dust, as could happen during the engraving or cutting of other materials.

Therefore, the laser beam guarantees great operational versatility when it comes to operating on plexiglass, both from the point of view of thickness and depth of cut, which can be modified precisely and at limited costs. In fact, given the high demand for this type of processing, laser cutting on plexiglass is quite advantageous whether it is a few pieces or mass production.

The advantages of laser cutting on plexiglass

To date, it is also possible to order a laser cut on plexiglass online and receive the piece in a short time. 

However, it is important to be skilled in designing the digital file for cutting, especially if it is complex shapes. 

After correctly making the file for the cutting lines, the advantages that can be obtained are many:

• the cutting speed of the laser far exceeds that of the milling cutter or other techniques and considerably reduces production times.
• the precision of the laser guarantees cutting quality at the millimetre level even on large runs.
• the versatility of use that plexiglass allows is extraordinary. Processes such as signs, signage, badges, plates and much more can be carried out without particular difficulties.
• the quality-price ratio is excellent and guarantees to have the piece in a short time, allowing a huge competitive advantage for this type of technique.

So, if you are considering laser cutting on PMMA, this could represent a valid, economical, fast and high-quality solution for the customisation of your project.