Cut to Size Polycarbonate & Acrylic
Factory-cut panels to the finished dimensions in your approved drawing; nesting and tolerance are quoted per order.
CNC & Laser Cutting
Compare CNC routing and laser edge requirements for polycarbonate parts before sending a drawing for production review.
Which cutting route gives your polycarbonate part the edge and fit it needs? For PC sheet, CNC routing is usually the first process to assess for profiles, holes and cut-outs. A laser-cut edge has a different heat history and needs a material-specific review; do not substitute a laser quote for a CNC quote without agreeing the edge requirement.
CNC and laser: decide by the finished part
| Decision point | CNC routing for PC | Laser processing question |
|---|---|---|
| Profiles, holes and slots | Review tool access, inside radii, edge distance and clamping from the drawing. | Confirm whether the proposed material and finish permit the heat-affected edge; ask for an approved sample if appearance matters. |
| Fit-critical features | Identify datums, mating parts and inspection method; tolerance is quoted for the specific job. | Do not assume the same fit or edge condition as a routed part. |
| Visible cut edge | Specify whether a machined edge is acceptable or a further finish is required. | Review discoloration, melt marks or stress before accepting a laser route for PC. |
| Marking or engraving | Send vector artwork, location and required depth or contrast. | Separate marking from through-cutting; the route depends on grade and appearance acceptance. |
This is a selection guide, not a universal CNC tolerance or laser capability promise. For a PC production order with drawings and fit-critical features, use our polycarbonate CNC machining service. For simple rectangular blanks, use cut-to-size PC.
What changes the process choice?
- Material: PC grade, thickness, coating and protective film can affect workholding and edge acceptance.
- Geometry: Internal corners, small holes, thin webs and close edge distances can drive tool and fixture decisions.
- Use: A machine guard, display component or control panel may have different fit, optical and edge priorities.
- Inspection: Agree critical dimensions and where they are measured, plus whether a first article is needed.
Send one brief for a meaningful process comparison
- DXF or DWG for the 2D profile; STEP or IGES for a 3D part; attach a dimensioned PDF with revision and notes.
- PC grade or functional requirement, thickness, colour/finish, quantity and repeat volume.
- Mark the cosmetic edge, mounting features, mating components and critical dimensions.
- State whether you need an approved first article, inspection record, packaging requirement or test report.
We review route feasibility and quote the chosen process to your drawing. Custom PC specifications can be supplied. Tooling, inspection and finish affect price and production time; site figures are average planning references, and the written offer confirms the terms for your order. Common PC test report originals are available from sales for a relevant grade or request.
Review PC CNC capability Send your drawing
Buyer questions
Is laser cutting the default for PC sheet?
No. Start by reviewing a CNC route for PC profiles and holes. If laser processing is proposed, agree the material grade, edge appearance, heat effects and sample acceptance before release.
Can I use the same tolerance for every thickness?
No. Tolerance depends on PC grade, thickness, geometry, workholding and how the feature is measured. Mark fit-critical dimensions on the drawing so the quotation can state the achievable result.
What should an edge sample show?
It should represent the selected grade, thickness and process, including the visible edge and nearby features. Agree the acceptance criteria and retain the approved sample or first-article record for repeat orders.
Where to look next
Related pages
Cast Acrylic Sheet
The fabricator’s grade — machines cleanly, engraves sharply, flame-polishes to an optical edge.
Bending & Thermoforming
Polycarbonate bends and formed parts to drawing. Compare the forming routes, appearance and fit requirements before you commit to tooling.
Custom Polycarbonate Sheet Specifications
Custom PC sheet, colour, function and fabricated parts — from your brief to a written, testable order specification.