Ask a fabricator why they choose polycarbonate over glass or acrylic and they will tell you it is because polycarbonate is very tough. This toughness is what makes polycarbonate so appealing.. Choosing the right polycarbonate sheet for a project still requires some practical checks.
What Makes Polycarbonate So Tough?
The main advantage of polycarbonate is its impact resistance. A standard polycarbonate sheet can absorb around 250 times more impact than glass of the same thickness before it cracks. It also allows up to 89 percent of light to pass through. Most materials have to choose between being strong or clear. Polycarbonate has both. Polycarbonate also works well in a temperature range from around -40°C to 130°C without becoming brittle or warped.
Where Is Polycarbonate Used?
Polycarbonate is often used for machine guarding and vehicle screens. It is also used for security glazing, balustrades, skylights, roofing, signage and electrical insulation. Polycarbonate is used anywhere a project needs a material that’s both clear and strong. Examples include bank teller screens, stadium canopies and warehouse mezzanine guards.
What Should You Check Before Buying Polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate sheets come in tints, such as Clear, Opal and Grey and various thicknesses. Some colours are available on request. Standard stock has UV protection on both sides. Comes with a ten-year warranty against breakage, excessive yellowing and loss of light transmission. This is worth checking before you buy polycarbonate for a job.
For areas where the surface will be subject to abrasion, such as high-security areas, an AR2 grade with extra scratch resistance is available. You should match the grade of polycarbonate to the environment it will be used in. For example outdoor glazing and indoor machine guards require specifications. Using the specification can lead to clouding or scratching within a year or two.
It is an idea to check the full range of polycarbonate sheets before you order. The thickness and tint of the sheet can affect how it performs once it is installed.
Final Thoughts
The right polycarbonate sheet for your project depends on three checks: how much impact it needs to withstand what temperature and UV exposure it will face and whether the surface needs extra scratch protection. If you get these checks right polycarbonate will live up to its reputation, for lasting more than almost any other material. If you need help choosing the grade of polycarbonate for your project you can talk to Australia’s leading plastic supplier.
