Description

Clear cast acrylic rod is solid round PMMA stock made for applications that need high optical clarity. Cast rod machines, polishes, and cements well, which makes it a practical choice for displays, lighting, models, and machined parts that have to look clean.

Acrylic is much lighter than glass and more resistant to impact. This rod is UV stabilized for indoor and outdoor use, and it can be cut, drilled, routed, polished, cemented, and heat formed with the right tools and techniques, for professional fabrication and careful DIY work alike.

The manufacturer lists its clear cast rod as meeting FDA 21 CFR 177.1010 for food contact at room temperature or under refrigeration.

Advantages

High optical clarity: glass-like transparency for displays, lighting, covers, and decorative pieces
UV stabilized: suited to indoor and outdoor applications
Strong and lightweight: high tensile strength and better impact resistance than glass, at a fraction of the weight
Machinable and cementable: can be sawed, drilled, routed, polished, and cemented using acrylic fabrication methods
Electrical insulator: good electrical properties for nonconductive parts

Applications

Point-of-purchase displays, retail fixtures, and product presentation pieces
Light pipes, overhead lighting features, and illuminated accents that carry light along the rod
Architectural models, prototypes, and design projects
Signage, decorative supports, and exhibit fabrication
Aquarium, hobby, craft, and maker projects
Machined components that need clarity and a clean finish

Fabrication and Handling Notes

Use tools and feeds suited to acrylic to reduce chipping, melting, or cracking. Support the rod securely when cutting or drilling, and avoid heat buildup. Cut ends can be finished by sanding, buffing, or flame polishing. The forming temperature is 350°F, and the maximum temperature is 200°F.

Acrylic is hard for a plastic but can still scratch, so store and work it on clean surfaces and use adhesives made for acrylic. Clean with mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft, non-abrasive cloth; avoid abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, and ammonia-based products.

Cut tolerance: +0.0″ / −0.2″