How to get a polished edge finish on acrylic

Tools and Method for Polished Edge Finish on Acrylic

Because of its glasslike transparency; acrylic is typically the material of choice for display applications.

Show cases used for displaying products of all types, for example, must have clear, polished edges to provide the maximum clearness and transparency.

In addition to torch flame polishing, another method to achieve a polished edge finish on acrylic, is by utilizing diamond tools.

Over years of extensive testing and development, Multicam has identified the optimum tools, and have developed and perfected the methodologies for using these tools. These tools and the methodologies we have developed, produce the clearest finishes, especially when polishing acrylic.

Tool selection and correct utilization of the tools are critical components in determining whether the desired polished edge finish is achieved.

Multicam has identified the optimum tool for the acrylic polishing application, as a type of diamond tool identified as either a Mono – Crystalline Diamond Tool; also referred to as MCD – Tool; or a Chemical Vapor Deposition Diamond Tool; also referred to as a CVD – Tool.

Utilizing tools with the crystalline face structure of these types of Diamond Tools, yields the highest polished and transparent edge possible; when using rotary tools vs. using a torch to flame polish acrylic edges.

In addition to identifying the optimum tools, our Multicam applications staff has also developed and dialed in, the process for proficiently utilizing these diamond tools; a process that yields a polish finish on acrylic edges. Steps in the process of proficiently utilizing diamond tools for polishing acrylic include:

• Utilize specific tool(s) for rough pass. Utilize specific RPM, feed rate, plunge speed and tool direction.
• Utilize specific tool(s) for finish pass. Utilize specific RPM, feed rate, plunge speed and tool direction.

It is important to point out that diamond polishing tools do not actually produce a chip. These tools are dialed in to pass within .003 to .007” of the acrylic edge, on the finish pass, and “rub” the edge, vs. cut the edge, of the acrylic.

You can find out more about these diamond polishing tools at www.multicamtooling.com

Here, you can search for and find a selection of diamond polishing tools specific to your requirements; with cut lengths to accommodate edge polishing of acrylics; with thicknesses from 1/8” through 1/2”. Additional diamond polishing tools, for cutting material thicknesses exceeding 1-1/4” are also available.

In summary, we look forward to providing you with tool recommendations and tool usage recommendations, based on your specific requirements. And we look forward to assisting you in your pursuit of producing the ultimate possible polished edge, on acrylics; with a rotary tool.

Find out more at www.multicamtooling.com