material for panels?

[twisted8]

I'm almost ready to start cutting some panels. What would be some recommended materials and thickness?

I've heard Acrylic and PVC. How about plexiglass? What works best for overhead panels (to be backlit) and MIP monitor frames. What thickness? 2 layers of 1/8"? white? clear?
If buy white acrylic online , how can I tell that it's see-thru enough to be backlit?

Thanks!

edit: so seems like plexiglas and acrylic are the same thing? I didn't know

[nosecone]

I am using 10mm acrylic for my bezels as shown in the picture
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p178/hsvgto/panelbezels.jpg

Rhys

[twisted8]

Thanks for the info those are nice! What aircraft are they for?

[nosecone]

Thanks for the info those are nice! What aircraft are they for?
Hi Twisted8
They are for a MD500E simulator I am working on.

I plan to find some clear acrylic or similar material to fit into the holes of the bezels to give it that glass look like on the real instruments. Also plan to attach thin rings onto the bezels aswell,

Rhys

[mondo50m]

I use translucent, white lexan (mostly known as Makrolon). Much easier to cut than plexiglass. I can also cut deeper and with higher speeds without melting it.

Milt

[twisted8]

thanks for the info!