Cast Acrylic Rods

Acrylic is produced in two basic versions, cast and extruded. Cast acrylic is produced by mixing the acrylic liquid ingredients in molds, whereas extruded acrylic is produced by continuously pushing acrylic mass through a form, while the chemical process takes place. Cast acrylic is homogeneous and extruded acrylic is heterogeneous.  Cast acrylic is usually regarded as better quality than extruded acrylic, although extruded acrylic is less costly.

When acrylic is made by "casting" it will always have less built-in stress – meaning, the molecular weight will be higher and it will machine better, handle pressure/vacuum better, and will be more resistant to heat and certain chemicals. If you are planning on doing any drilling/tapping or machining you will find that the cast tubing product excels. Otherwise, the extruded acrylic tubing is fine and typically less costly.