Impact strength is perhaps the most important of the many features of polycarbonate sheet. It is 250 times stronger than glass, and 30-40 times stronger than acrylic. Whether it is used as window glazing, machine guards or in signage, it is virtually unbreakable. Design versatility allows polycarbonate sheet to be used in many ways. It can be vacuum formed and painted into high strength outdoor illumination signs. It can be cold bent on site for curved architectural glazing or it can be cut and shaped for guarding or for glazing applications where there is a potential for glass breakage.
Polycarbonate (PC)
Properties
- Excellent impact resistance – x250 stronger than glass.
- Flame retardant in that it burns slowly and is self-extinguishing. This means that it won’t cause fires to spread and can be used in any application where glass is used.
- Outstanding dimensional stability at temperatures of up to 130ºC. Above 140ºC the material will begin to soften, at 230ºC it will begin to melt and it will begin to flow anywhere from 260ºC to 320ºC.
- Can withstand low temperatures without any noticeable decrease in general performance levels. Some performance changes will occur at 150ºC and below.
- Can be machined, decorated, welded or bonded/glued, provided the correct polycarbonate-based bonding medium is used.
- Sound-reduction characteristics are similar to that of glass.
- Ability to be cold formed in thinner gauges
- Polycarbonate sheets require less energy to manufacture than other glazing materials and can be recycled.
- Good dimensional stability and electrical insulating properties.
- Low moisture absorption.
Applications
- Safety glazing
- Machine guards
- Signage
- Sight glasses
