Polycarbonate is a unique engineering thermoplastic which has an excellent balance of clarity and toughness while displaying a wide range of high-heat deflection temperatures. Toughness is the most outstanding feature of polycarbonate; for applications such as safety shields and sports equipment this durable material is without equal. Other characteristics include excellent electrical properties, dimensional stability and inherent ignition resistant properties.

The close tolerance machinability and transparency of this material make it appropriate for applications which require high performance characteristics. This combination of physical properties make it a useful material for the automotive, industrial/business machine and appliance markets. Polycarbonate is available in both general purpose and FDA grades. General purpose polycarbonate is enhanced by the addition of thermal stabilizers, U.V. stabilizers, mold release agents, glass fibers and ignition resistant additives. Fabrication techniques such as milling, forming or cutting can be performed using standard equipment and tools. Note: See also Tuffak

Product Applications

Typical Properties

• Exceptional machinability
• Low water absorption
• Good impact resistance
• Non-toxic
• Good thermal properties
• Superior dimensional stability
• Heat resistant
• Transparent up to 2" in special grades
  
  
  
• Impact Resistant - Polycarbonate sheet is practically unbreakable. This tough and durable material is well suited for applications where high impact is inevitable. When polycarbonate material is struck it will cold form rather than fragment.
  
  
• Lightweight - Polycarbonate is 1/2 the weight of glass and 43% lighter than aluminum.
  
  
• Resistive Properties of Polycarbonate Sheet - Some practical limitations of polycarbonate sheet include exposure to high temperatures and humidity over long periods of time. To improve upon the weather ability and resistive characteristics of polycarbonate, additives and fillers can be blended with the material to make up for any deficiencies. Typically, polycarbonate shows good resistance (at room temperature) to water, dilute organic and inorganic acids, neutral and acid salts and aliphatic and cyclic hydrocarbons. Polycarbonate sheet, however, does not resist attacks from alkalines, amines, ketones, esters and aromatic hydrocarbons. As a rule, any fabricated part should be tested in the environment in which it will be expected to perform prior to any final application.
  
  
• Effects of moisture on Polycarbonate Sheet - Polycarbonate sheet displays good resistance to water and humidity up to approximately 150oF. Due to polycarbonate's limited long-term hydrolytic stability any exposure beyond 150oF may result in hydrolytic crazing, which is characterized by the sheet having a fogged appearance. Inherent physical strength will also be at risk.

POLYCARBONATE (Abrasion Resistant)

Abrasion Resistant (AR) Polycarbonate offers the dual protection you need: the impact strength to withstand even the most punishing abuse coupled with a hard-coated, nonstick surface that resists abrasions and cleans so easily that even spray-paint graffiti can be readily removed. AR Polycarbonate maintains superior clarity and protection when subjected to repeated pedestrian contact, cyclical cleaning and even vandalism throughout its service life. See also Tuffak CM-2

Product Applications

Useful in high-traffic areas such as street-level windows, school and transportation glazing, security and detention windows, and even arcade games.

Typical Properties

• Enhanced Weatherability - This material has outstanding UV resistance against both yellowing and hazing.
• Superior Chemical Resistance

AR Polycarbonate resists graffiti defacement due to the non-stick characteristics of the hard-coat. These same properties translate into enhanced chemical resistance against harsh cleaners and solvents that attack standard polycarbonate. Care must be taken, however, to protect the cut edges of AR Polycarbonate, which are susceptible to edge attack from solvents.

Installation & Handling

• Cutting - AR Polycarbonate sheet may be cut using most types of conventional power saws. Best results are obtained with triple-chip blade designs with carbide teeth.
• Expansion Allowances - As a general rule, glazing should be designed to allow approximately 1/16" per foot for expansion in both long and short dimensions of the material, as well as providing for sufficient edge engagement (edge bite) in the glazing frame through proper rabbet depth.
• Cleaning & Maintenance - Under normal soiling conditions AR Polycarbonate should be washed on a regular basis with a mild solution of soap and warm water, using a soft cloth or sponge. The glazing should be gently rubbed to loosen dirt and grime, and then rinsed with clean water. To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a chamois or sponge. Do not use abrasive cleaners or sharp instruments that may gouge the surface.

POLYCARBONATE (Machine Grade)

Superior impact and toughness characterize Hydex® 4301 polycarbonate and 4320BK, 20% glass filled polycarbonate rod and slab. HYDEX 4301 is a natural unfilled polycarbonate that has transparency, excellent impact strength and tensile properties. HYDEX 4320BK is a 20% glass filled polycarbonate with higher temperature and tensile properties than the unfilled 4301.

Polycarbonate is a amorphous thermoplastic. Good electrical properties combined with superior impact strength and moderate chemical resistance make this product widely accepted for numerous applications. This product is offered in many popular rod and slab sizes. NOTE: See also Zelux

Product Applications

• Automotive - Instrument panels, light bezels, pumps and valves
• Business Equipment - Connectors, gears, internal mechanical parts, relays and rollers

Typical Properties

• Excellent dimensional stability
• Superior impact strength
• Good electrical properties
• Transparency
• Outstanding mechanical strength
• Good machinability
• Stiffness

POLYCARBONATE (Clear Tubing)

Polycarbonate tubing is formulated with good dimensional stability, high impact strength, good rigidity, self-extinguishing characteristics and chemical resistance. The combination of all these properties make this material outstanding for abusive environments, where strength and clarity are important. Applications for polycarbonate tubing include: site gauges, fuel gauges, protective enclosures, core collectors and medical instruments. Excelon brand of polycarbonate tubing is made from FDA approved materials.

Lexan® is a registered trademark of General Electric Company. Tuffak® is a registered trademark of ATOFINA Chemicals, Inc.