Acrylic, often known as plexiglass, is one of the most widely used materials both in commercial and household items, and for good reason: it is lightweight and durable. This shatterproof, transparent, easy-to-use, and extremely versatile clear plastic has a high degree of flexibility. We know this since we’ve been creating acrylic displays for more than 40 years and have seen it all. Acrylic panels, like any other surface, will eventually require cleaning at some point.
Cleaning your displays on a regular basis helps to maintain their quality and enhance their clarity, even while helping the material to retain its sheen and transparency. Frequent cleanings should keep the workload to a minimum, and the supplies you use will most likely be something you already have about the house or office.
Cleaning and Repair Plexiglass
Scraping, sanding, buffing, or flame polishing the tough plastic is a more involved and time-consuming method of restoring it to its former glory. In the case of commercial manufacturing and custom-made displays, such procedures are widely used by manufacturers and architects alike. These methods are not recommended for novices, especially if you are concerned about causing damage to your items. Nevertheless, if the work gets complete properly, the final acrylic surface will appear almost brand new.
1. Scraping
It is possible to shape any jagged or uneven edges by using the acrylic scraping process.
2. Sanding
Not only will sanding remove machining marks from your acrylic, but it will also produce a matt surface on it. Almost any type of sander will work, including hand, disc, belt, and drum sanders, among others. Sand the surface with a coarser sandpaper first, and then go to a finer sandpaper as you progress across the surface. Keep the sander going at any and all times by applying mild pressure to the workpiece. This will prevent heat buildup and damage to the acrylic from occurring.
3. Buffing
The use of stationary polishing wheels is excellent for restoring the clarity of acrylic after it has been sanded. Use an 8″-14″ circle, 2″-3″ broad piece of bleach muslin with bias strips to guarantee if you’re less likely to overheat your acrylic. A cooler wheel will result as a result of this adjustment. Keep the acrylic firmly clamped in place so that it would not slide as you buff.A glossy finish is produced by using a medium cutting substance.
4. Polishing with a flame
This will result in a shiny edge that is smooth. Initiate by moving the torch flame at a rate of about 3″ to 4″ per second across the acrylic edge of your workpiece. Heat the edges quickly by moving the iron around. Avoid overshooting or heating the acrylic too closely, as this can cause the acrylic to melt and destroy the finish. Stress, crazing, and bubble will occur if the flame is moved too slowly or too close to the object. It is possible to achieve a clean, shining finish on the borders of your furnishings or display if the work is done correctly.
Cleaning Procedure
Make sure that the place around your acrylic or plexiglass panel is clear of any objects that could become a stumbling block when you are cleaning it of fingerprints, dust, and debris before starting. Avoid using paper towels on your panel when possible to prevent damaging it. These are more prone to leave scratches than microfiber cloths. After wetting the cloth, begin by softly wiping the acrylic, then gently spreading the solution throughout the entire surface with your fingers or a brush. Keep from rubbing the plexiglass too hard, since this may produce scratches.
Buffing or polishing acrylic also helps to lessen the likelihood of recurring stains, allowing for longer periods of time between cleaning sessions. Allow for a brief period of resting before checking for any remaining channels. Rewet the fabric and dry it once again whether there are any remaining splotches. Make your selection with care: Some cleaning products should be avoided at all costs. Here are a few examples: The truth is that using the wrong cleaning product can cause permanent damage to your acrylic panels, rendering them unusable. Avoid using paper towels as they will not erase scratches and may potentially worsen the situation by causing new ones. Avoid using anything besides microfiber cloth.
Tips for Cleaning Plexiglass
Among the drawbacks of Plexiglass is the fact that it is easily scratched and dented. We must first determine which cleanser and cloth will be most effective in removing dirt, stains, dust, and blotches from acrylic surfaces without leaving markings on the surface before beginning the cleaning process. Light scratches are not a cause for concern; by temporarily filling in the scratches with little auto wax, you may easily erase them.
Comparable results can be achieved using Vaseline as well.Take a close look at the Plexiglass to determine the level of grime on the surface. Using this information, you can determine how powerful of a cleaning chemical you should employ. A light mist of water will suffice if all that can be seen is a layer of dust.
Using ammonia on Plexiglas surfaces can cause them to become foggy anddeteriorate. Additionally, typical glass cleaners, ketones, and halogens should be avoided as much as possible. Using a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth, gently wipe the surface down, only contacting the fabric with the section of the surface that has cleaner applied to it.
However, if you are still stuck in a bind and want to be extra thorough, you can rinse the cloth and soak it in plain water before wiping it on the Plexiglass a second time. Even while this step isn’t required, it can help you clean up any messes from the first time you tried. Running water over the surface without producing a slide threat is an option when you’re not in the mood for wiping.
