
Acrylic
Acrylic is often known by brand names such as Perspex and Plexiglass. Clear acrylic is by far the most popular due to the fact that is has better optical clarity than glass, and will not smash like glass will. Acrylic is also available in a huge selection of colours including solid high gloss colours, frosted finishes, opaques, fluorescents, pearlescent and mirror finishes!. Furthermore, finishes such as wood effects, stone effects and even glitter sparkle effects are all available.
Acrylic is available in several different grades including Extruded (the most cost effective solution), Cast (the best mechanical properties for machining and optical clarity, and suitable for laser engraving), Impact Modified (for increased strength)
It is available in a wide range of thicknesses from 2mm up to 30mm.
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is similar in appearance to Acrylic but is much stronger with a high impact resistance and will withstand higher temperature.
Like Acrylic, Polycarbonate is highly transparent to visible light and actually has better light transmission than many kinds of glass.
Unlike acrylic, Polycarbonate can be processed and formed at room temperature without cracking or breaking.
Some of our products made from Polycarbonate include our Fire Rated Poster Kits and Emergency wayfinding.
The disadvantages of Polycarbonate are that It does not Laser cut well, cannot have its edges flame polished, and may scratch easier than acrylic.
Foam PVC (Foamex, Fomalux, etc.)
Like Solid PVC, closed-cell Foam PVC is solid and has a very rigid structure but it is also very light (as little as half the weight of solid PVC). It is highly resistant to moisture and some chemicals, and very easy to cut and shape. It can be heat formed and has excellent print adhesion properties making it ideal for signage and printed wall boards. Being closed cell, it is suitable for interior and exterior applications and has excellent UV resistance.
Wood
We work with many different types of wood from solid woods to MDF, Plywood and other composite panels. Wood is great material to work with due to its strength, machinability and aesthetic properties.
Wood can be found in a lot of our custom display units, Lecterns and especially floor standing display cabinets.
HIPS - High Impact Polystyrene
HIPS sheet is an inexpensive, lightweight plastic with a good degree of resistance to impact and tearing. It can be supplied in a range of colours including Opal, Cream, Yellow, Orange, Red, Green, Lilac, Blue, Purple, Brown, Silver and Grey.
HIPS is an easily printed surface for single and double sided printing applications and can also be easily thermoformed. Its properties ensure compliance with strict food and medical regulations.
HIPS is commonly used in a variety of our POS Displays.