Acrylic Fabrication
As specialists in acrylic fabrication, we offer a range of manufacturing techniques such as acrylic drape forming and heat/line bending. As a result, we can fabricate acrylic with precision into various forms to achieve the design you require. Ideal for a range of industries such as retail, abstract furniture design, signage and aviation, our acrylic fabrication services offer expert services and value for money. To find out how we can assist with your project, please get in touch.
Acrylic Drape Forming
The beauty of acrylic is that it is the perfect material for many applications. This is because it is a thermoplastic and therefore easy to form into various shapes using specialist heating techniques. Acrylic drape forming involves heating the sheet so that it moulds around the cast. One of the benefits of this type of fabrication process is that the sheet thickness is maintained across the mould. As a result, there are no weak points which could hinder the design.
Drape forming (also known as oven forming) is a technique which is used when a more gradual curve is desired than heat/line bending can achieve. Oven forming is ideal for the fabrication of:
- Front panels for display cases
- Unique point of sale displays
- Fabrication of household fixtures such as baths, shower trays and countertops
- Bespoke moulds for the aviation industry
Here at acrylux Ltd, we have a specialist oven which can take a volume capacity of 1800mm length X 1500mm wide X 550mm high. A sheet is placed into the oven and heated to around 150-155°C (300-312°F). When the sheet reaches the ideal malleable temperature, it is carefully removed from the oven and placed onto a mould. The sheet then sags onto the mould and will be either manually aided or clamped so it forms into the shape of the cast. Once cooled it perfectly retains the shape.
Benefits of Acrylic Drape/ Oven Forming
Compared to vacuum forming, acrylic drape/ oven forming benefits from the following advantages:
- Lower mould costs
- Better dimensional control on the inside angles of the product
- Ability to grain surfaces to achieve the desired texture
- Faster cycle times
Acrylic Line Bending
Acrylic line bending is the process of heating acrylic sheet so that it bends at specified points to form a well-defined curve. Once cooled the sheet retains its new form while maintaining strength across the structure. This type of acrylic fabrication is ideal for the manufacture of items such as point of sale displays, menu holders, ticket holders and notice stands for reception areas, offices and hotels.
Contact acrylux Ltd
For further information about our acrylic fabrication, please get in touch with the team. We are happy to discuss your ideas and provide advice relating to your project. So, get in touch to see how we can help you.