In the processing of acrylic sheet, edge polishing can be said to be a key step to enhance the overall texture and aesthetics. Especially in display racks, high-end decoration, handicrafts and other scenes, smooth and transparent edge processing can immediately make the product grade up a level. So the question is, what is the difference between the two common acrylic edge treatment methods - Flame Polishing and Diamond Polishing? Which one is better for your project? Let's talk about it today.
What is Flame Polishing?
Flame Polishing is a way of using a high temperature flame to quickly melt and flatten the edges of acrylic panels. Usually using a hydroxide flame gun, the cut acrylic edges of the ‘sweeping fire’, so that the surface instantly melted and self-levelling, showing a bright, transparent effect.
This method is fast, low cost, very suitable for high transparency requirements but limited budget projects, such as interior decorative panels, exhibitions with partition panels.
However, flame polishing has its limitations, it has certain requirements on the thickness and edge quality of the panels, and for particularly thick panels, the effect may not be as delicate as diamond polishing. In addition, the flame operation requires a certain degree of experience to control the fire, otherwise it is easy to cause edge deformation or micro-cracks.
What is diamond polishing?
Diamond polishing, is through a special diamond tool in the polishing machine on the edge of the acrylic for precision cutting, polished like a mirror-like flat, smooth effect. This way of high precision, strong texture, not easy to deform, suitable for products with very high requirements for appearance, such as high-end acrylic displays, medals, signage and so on.
Of course, the processing time of diamond polishing is slightly longer than flame polishing, and the cost is relatively higher, but in the long run, its stability and aesthetics are better.
If you would like to get a better idea of the finished results of the different processes, you are welcome to visit Acrylmate, where we show a wide range of examples of edge treatments.
What's the best way to choose between the two processes? Depends on your needs!
Cost Effective? Choose Flame Polishing
If you have a limited budget for your project, and you don't need a high degree of precision on the edges of your products, such as for advertising light boxes, interior decoration, retail displays, etc., then Flame Polishing is a good choice - it's fast, efficient, and saves you money.
Pursuing high-end texture? Choose diamond polishing
If you are doing brand display props, boutique display racks, or applications that require extremely high edge flatness, then diamond polishing is more suitable for you. Not only will the edges be as smooth as a mirror, but it will also enhance the overall premium look of the product.
Acrylmate Plastics offers a wide range of polishing services
At Acrylmate Plastics we offer our customers a wide range of finishing options, including flame polishing and diamond polishing, which can be customised to suit a variety of product sizes, applications, budgets and more. Whether you need a quick turnaround or are looking for the ultimate in craftsmanship, we have a professional solution for you.
If you are still uncertain about which polishing method is more suitable for your project, click to learn more about our customised services or contact us directly, we will give you the most suitable advice according to your actual needs.