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Materials Guide
Polycarbonate
Polycarbonate is a tough, transparent thermoplastic known for its exceptional impact resistance and optical clarity. It combines strength and design flexibility, making it ideal for demanding applications that require both durability and aesthetics.
What is Polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate is produced through the polymerization of bisphenol A (BPA) and phosgene. The resulting structure creates a material that is virtually unbreakable, with excellent heat resistance and dimensional stability. It can be molded, extruded, or thermoformed into complex shapes while maintaining clarity.
Common Applications
Polycarbonate is widely used in industries where safety and visibility are essential:
- Safety glasses, shields, and goggles
- Machine guards and protective panels
- Automotive lighting and glazing
- Medical device housings
- Electrical enclosures and connectors
Fun Fact: The first CDs and DVDs were made from polycarbonate. Its clarity and durability made it perfect for digital storage.
Important Considerations
Benefits
- Outstanding impact resistance (250x stronger than glass)
- Excellent optical clarity and transparency
- High heat resistance and dimensional stability
- Lightweight compared to glass and metals
- Good electrical insulation properties
Limitations
- Prone to scratching without protective coatings
- Susceptible to stress cracking from certain chemicals
- Lower UV resistance unless stabilized
- Typically more expensive than acrylic
Custom Polycarbonate Extrusion with Engineered Profiles
Engineered Profiles develops custom polycarbonate extrusions built for high performance. Whether you need clear profiles, durable protective components, or heat-resistant parts, our expertise in material formulation and advanced tooling ensures precision results every time.
Download the Polycarbonate infosheet
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