Acrylic Laser Cutting
Laser technology has revolutionized the awards and trophies industry, with acrylic/plexiglass, being a prime material for this application. CO2 lasers like Kern’s (Clear Image’s Choice) excel at cutting acrylic into precise shapes while simultaneously producing smooth, flame-polished edges that require minimal finishing. The laser’s infrared beam is readily absorbed by acrylic, resulting in a melting and vaporization process that creates smooth edges.
Advantages of a Laser Cutting Acrylic:
- Clean cuts: Minimal post-processing is often required due to the laser’s ability to create smooth, flame-polished edges.
- Precision: Intricate designs and detailed cuts are achievable with high accuracy.
- Speed: Laser cutting acrylic is generally faster than traditional cutting methods.
- Versatility: Beyond cutting, CO2 lasers can also engrave and mark acrylic.
- Material efficiency: Less waste compared to other cutting methods due to precise cuts.
Acrylic Engraving
Additionally, laser engraving (AKA etching) creates a striking, frosty white mark on acrylic, ideal for personalized text, logos, or intricate designs. Beyond acrylic, a vast array of materials can be employed in award and trophy creation.
Signage and Displays in Acrylic
Signage and displays are other products that benefit from laser technology.
- Point of Sale (POS) displays: Create eye-catching and durable displays with intricate designs.
- Signage: Produce high-quality indoor and outdoor signs with clean cuts and crisp graphics.
- Exhibits and trade show booths: Build custom and reusable exhibit components.
FYI
Plexiglass is a colloquial way to refer to clear acrylic sheets—making acrylic and plexiglass the same product. The origin of the term “plexiglass” comes from a brand of clear cast acrylic sheets called “Plexiglas,” but today plexiglass and acrylic are often used interchangeably.