Acrylic (PMMA) for CNC Machining

Machined acrylic is a rigid, translucent thermoplastic that offers UV stability 

Get Acrylic Parts

What is Acrylic (PMMA)?

Machined acrylic, or PMMA, parts exhibit good optical properties, UV stability, high gloss, and scratch resistance. It's an economical alternative to polycarbonate when impact strength and overall toughness is not needed and can be used as a shatterproof alternative to glass.

Machined Acrylic (PMMA) Material Properties

  Tensile Strength Elongation at Break Tensile Modulus Flexural Strength Hardness More Details
Test Method DIN 53455 DIN EN ISO 527 DIN EN ISO 527 ASTM D790 ISO 868 Data Sheet
Machined Acrylic 60 MPa 4.5% 3,000 MPa 117  MPa 90 Rockwell M

Uses for Acrylic Parts

The clarity of acrylic makes it a good choice for optical and lighting applications. It can also be a shatterproof alternative to glass.

Common applications

  • Light pipes
  • Lenses
  • Light shades
  • Optical fibres
  • Signs

Related Resources

various material properties

CNC Machining Materials

With a universe of metal and plastic options available, keep in mind your machined part’s function when choosing material.
Read Design Tip arrow_right_alt
plastic part

Moving Between 3D Printing and CNC Machining for Plastic Parts

Moving Between 3D Printing and CNC Machining for Plastic Parts
Read Design Tip arrow_right_alt
illustration of cnc machining threaded holes

CNC Machining for Prototypes and Low-Volume Production Parts

How to create efficient, manufacturable metal and plastic parts through design considerations, material selection, and streamlined machining processes.
Read White Paper arrow_right_alt
3d printed jigs and fixtures

Using 3D Printing for Complex Jigs and Fixtures

Additive manufacturing is an excellent complement or alternative to machining when irregular, intricate, or smaller jigs and fixtures are needed
Read Design Tip arrow_right_alt