Key Properties
Polycarbonate is a lightweight, highly unbreakable plastic found in items such as vandal and child resistant windows, machine guards, cement shuttering, sporting items and sports dug-outs and viewing screens. Safer shower screens are available with the embossed Polycarbonate. It is also used where higher temperature and fire resistance is desirable. This tough, durable, shatter-proof and heat-resistant material is ideal for a many applications. Its scratch resistance is lower than that of Acrylic as is its UV stability in standard form but new UV resistant finishes are now available. We also can supply this with a hardened outer coating to resist scratching.
Strengths
· Very high toughness, down to -20°C
· Transparent, light transmission as good as glass
· Good electrical insulation properties, not influenced by water or temperature
· Good abrasion resistance
· High mechanical retention, up to 140°C
· FDA compliant
· Resistance to repeated steam sterilisations
· Intrinsic flame retardant, more efficient than other engineering thermoplastics
Limits
· Low fatigue endurance
· Mechanical properties degrade after prolonged exposure to water over 60°C
· Attacked by hydrocarbons and bases
· A small percentage yellowing after long exposure to sunlight (UV) (Far less percentage yellowing when using UV Stabilised.
Size Availability
Colours |
Thickness (mm) |
Max Sizes (NB: We cut to size from these) |
Price Guide per Square Metre (Material Price Only) |
Clear with added UV protection |
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12 |
3M x 2M |
Please ask |
Clear with Standard UV Resistance |
1, 1.5 |
2050 x 1250mm |
Minimum 1 sheet of 1 or 1.5mm thick |
Clear with Standard UV Resistance |
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12 |
3M x 2M |
Please ask |
Clear - engineering grades |
15 - 50 |
3M x 2M but usually less |
Please ask |
Clear with Standard UV Resistance |
3, 4, 6 |
6100 x 2050mm |
Stocks Vary. Please ask
|
Opal |
2, 3, 4, 6 |
3M x 2M |
Please ask |
Bronze |
3, 4, 6 |
3M x 2M |
Please ask |
Embossed or Obscure for Shower Screens |
3, 4, 6 |
2440 x1220mm some 3050 x 2050mm |
Please ask |
Mirror |
3, 6 |
2440 x1220mm |
Please ask |
Hard Coated |
Mainly hold 5mm |
Varies |
Please ask |
Rod & Tube |
We do not supply rods or tube in Polycarbonate any more |
See Acrylic shapes | |