It can be advantageous and useful to look for alternatives to conventional roofing materials like polycarbonate. Although polycarbonate sheets are widely used because of their strength and transparency, there are alternative materials that have comparable benefits but distinct qualities of their own.
Acryl is a noteworthy substitute for polycarbonate. Polycarbonate and acrylic sheets are similar in that they are both lightweight and have excellent clarity. They also hold their transparency over time and are resistant to UV rays. But compared to polycarbonate, acrylic scratches more easily and may need more frequent maintenance to keep its attractive appearance.
Fiberglass is another alternative that is growing in favor. Because of their strength and durability, fiberglass roofing panels are a reliable option for a variety of roofing applications. They have good thermal insulation qualities, are lightweight, and are simple to install. Fiberglass panels are long-lasting and weather-resistant, and they come in translucent or opaque options, giving designers more creative freedom.
Recycled plastic roofing materials are a viable option for individuals searching for environmentally sustainable materials. These materials, which are made from post-consumer waste, provide a sustainable solution without sacrificing strength and usefulness. They offer versatility for both residential and commercial roofing projects because they can be molded into sheets or tiles.
Finally, sheets made of glass-reinforced plastic (GRP) offer yet another practical option. GRP provides a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing roofing solution by fusing the strength of fiberglass with the visual appeal of translucent panels. It can be used in a variety of climates and architectural styles because it is resistant to corrosion, UV rays, and extreme weather.
- Polycarbonate glass is the best substitute for ordinary glass
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Areas of application
- The main advantages of monolithic polycarbonate, photo of the material
- Advantages of monolithic polycarbonate
- Where monolithic polycarbonate is used?
- Methods for installing polycarbonate and care
- How to choose the right quality material?
- Polycarbonate for greenhouses: which is better, dimensions, thickness, density
- Short story
- Types of plastic for greenhouses
- Cellular polycarbonate for greenhouses
- Standards of sheet thickness
- Cellular polycarbonate service life
- Practical recommendations for the choice of material and installation
- Monolithic polycarbonate
- Video on the topic
- Now only the film instead of picarbonate, see why) about the foundation of the greenhouse and automation
- Polygal, perhaps the best material for greenhouses!
- Greenhouse made of monolithic polycarbonate, cheaper and stronger than from tempered glass.
- Polycarbonate greenhouse. REPAIR of the greenhouse. Replacement of cellular polycarbonate with reinforced film.
- This is better than a polycarbonate greenhouse! Checked ! Planting in a greenhouse.
- Anti-light polycarbonate mount
Polycarbonate glass is the best substitute for ordinary glass
Until recently, glass was considered the only material that has no analogues: it holds heat perfectly, passes light, does not destroy under the influence of the sun. But he has one, but a very significant drawback – it is very difficult and fragile: it is difficult to transport and mount structures from glass and labor and time costs are very noticeable. In addition, with strong mechanical exposure, the glass is smashed to smithereens, which often leads to injuries and and, moreover, quite serious. Fortunately, today there is something to replace such a necessary material – he was replaced by polycarbonate glass. This is a polymer plastic, the translucency of which is only slightly inferior in this indicator to the usual glass.
Advantages and disadvantages
Polycarbonate is the most effective replacement for glass products in construction, as demonstrated by the test conducted in real-world settings. Its properties have no known counterparts. He:
- Perfectly misses and at the same time disperses the light.
- Differs in low thermal conductivity, which limits thermal losses.
- Weighs much easier than traditional glass, but at the same time, glass from polycarbonate does not lose their properties at any temperature indications: neither at −50 ° at + 125 °.
- Resistant to UV radiation.
- Ecologically clean, and in these indicators traditional glass is not inferior.
- Has unique strength, which is 200 times higher than this indicator of glass analogues. Even an abandoned stone will not cause any harm to polycarbonate glass.
- It is fireproof, polycarbonate not only does not ignite, but, being next to open fire, does not burn and does not emit harmful substances.
- It has high chemical stability to many non -induced substances, so you can even in those rooms that are characterized by an aggressive environment, to install polycarbonate products.
There are other drawbacks to this material, though they are difficult to identify. First and foremost, the material is expensive, but when we consider its qualities and longevity, it makes sense that it cannot be both too little and of such excellent quality in every way. Furthermore, you should exercise caution when manufacturing complexly shaped polycarbonate glasses because the material may rupture from extreme flexion.
Areas of application
Considering that polycarbonate was first commercially available only ten to fifteen years ago, it is surprising how widely used it is today. They’ll use it today:
- In the urban construction sector, overlapping of gas stations, transition zones between buildings, complexes for stops, fencing for sports facilities are made from it;
- in the advertising sphere for the manufacture of lighting structures, voluminous inscriptions, signs;
- In the private construction sector, he also found application, glass installed in greenhouses, balconies, attic rooms, closed car parking delight and amaze with their beauty, efficiency and strength;
- in interior design – for the production of suspended ceilings and office partitions;
- for the manufacture of showers, lanterns and many other structures for industrial production;
- for the manufacture of anti -vandal protection of banks, shops and other commercial construction facilities;
- to perform pavilion windows. Polycarbonate glasses are used in glazing production, commercial and office buildings;
- for the production of various goods, including chairs, buildings for electrical appliances, helmets, masks, glasses.
Developed an interest in the automotive industry and polycarbonate materials. Furthermore, this material is far better suited for the automotive industry because it prevents damage to the wipers and makes it easier to clean the glass from snow. Furthermore, the stove heats the cabin more quickly because the car’s glass does not overcool. People inside the cabin are shielded from UV radiation in the summertime by the auto glass. Because of this, the fact that polycarbonate eyewear is being manufactured for automobiles and that production is rising annually is no longer shocking.
The size of the product, the quantity and cost of the parts required for installation, the intricacy of the manufacturing process, the kind of polycarbonate used, and its thickness all affect the price of polycarbonate. As an illustration, 1 kV m. Four-millimeter cellular polycarbonate will set you back 120 rubles, while glass with the same dimensions and thickness will set you back 360 rubles. Although cast or monolithic polycarbonate is more expensive—roughly 600 rubles per square meter—it is more affordable than both glass and cell alternatives in many cases.
Because of its exceptional strength, polycarbonate glass… Annual production of polycarbonate glasses rises because of.
Are you trying to find a substitute for polycarbonate in your roofing system? Use our in-depth guide at "All about the Roof" to learn about the best options available today. We analyze the advantages, costs, and suitability of various materials for various purposes and climates, ranging from strong options like acrylic and PVC to environmentally friendly options like glass and fiberglass. Affordability, sustainability, or a particular aesthetic are all important considerations, so choose the best option within your means."
The main advantages of monolithic polycarbonate, photo of the material
Would someone today imagine that glass would be replaced with a new, more resilient material? Оогда реальным проходимость света сквозь полоток и усовершенствовать кровля помещених, начали использовать стекло. However, glass has drawbacks just like any other material, the primary one being its beating composition.
However, polycarbonate is a new product that has just entered the sales market. material, of which polymer plastic is an essential component. Polycarbonate demonstrated itself to perfection in designs that require both the strength of the structure and solar penetration.
There are two different kinds of polycarbonates: monolithic and cellular. In the context of resembling honeycombs, cell material is composed of multiple components. The term "monolithic" refers to a continuous sheet; this kind of polycarbonate has exceptional transparency.
Advantages of monolithic polycarbonate
This material stands out from others that are similar because of its many benefits. Compared to glass, for example, polycarbonate is far easier to handle. In turn, this makes the installation process easier. The percentage of light pass is roughly 90%, which is excellent. The product is extremely strong because it can sustain a powerful blow from a sharp object.
Dimensional. Not scared of fire because plastic has a much higher melting point than other building materials. Forming is simple, and cutting is not hard. Despite its appealing appearance, it is just as significant to design.
The material comes in a standard size, though the manufacturer may alter it upon request. The sheet has thicknesses ranging from 2 to 12 millimeters. The strength of the material increases with thickness.
A broad color palette also contributes to the material’s continued high level of consumption. Among the primary hues, I draw attention to the transparent, which is less prevalent than its color counterpart despite having a standard appearance. You can find brown, gray, and white in any building supply store. However, the most frequently produced variations come in restricted quantities and include colors like yellow, turquoise, or blue. You can see how polycarbonate appears in the picture.
Even the most remarkable ideas are readily realized with the aid of this material. Moisture does not frighten polycarbonate; rather, it is perfectly repelled by it and does not penetrate it. Consequently, appropriate for installing roofs. It is protected from UV rays, but the material is not as well-affected by the sun over time, so the color may fade.
An excellent substitute for lightning-resistant building materials is polycarbonate. Among other things, the material is highlighted by his reasonable price. Many people are looking to cut costs, and this is a fantastic chance to get a high-quality product at a reasonable cost.
Where monolithic polycarbonate is used?
The material’s scope is expanding every day. All people, after all, like inexpensive copies over well-known ones. Up until now, areas like these have employed continuous polycarbonate sheets:
- Construction;
- Medicine;
- Automotive industry;
- Electrician;
- Optics;
- Sport;
- Advertising.
Furthermore, this is still a partial list of the uses for this all-purpose substance. frequently used to glaze rooms so that natural light can enter and save energy. Orders for polycarbonate are being placed for greenhouse construction more and more frequently.
They use the material to create all possible design elements, including arches, as well as a roof. Because of its soundproofing qualities, it can be used to build screens alongside highways. These detachable noise-cancelling screens shield nearby residents from loud noises. Instances of buildings close to the road, as seen in the picture.
It is employed in the building of road signs and phone booths. Polycarbonate is used to make dialogue for headlights and lobic glass. Playground gardens are another option. They select their own color scheme for each element, but it’s crucial to keep in mind that the more transmitting properties below, the darker the polycarbonate.
Dividends between offices composed of matte or colored polycarbonate as well. There’s no need to use more expensive material because of good sound insulation. Polycarbonate will be aided by visors over front doors and on arbor covers in all these different kinds of works.
Methods for installing polycarbonate and care
Polycarbonate is bonded to the structure and to one another like any other material. There are two ways to fasten: the wet method and the dry method. Putty made of polymers used for wet mounting. After lubricating the edge, another sheet is attached to the frame’s perimeter. Sealant is applied to joints; you can also use the seal.
Using gaskets and seals, the dry method involves joining the material with the aid of threaded connections, or self-tapping screws. Self-tapping screws are used to secure sheets to the frame. The resistance of this design is noteworthy.
Polycarbonate needs maintenance; it needs to be polished and cleaned. A special liquid is used with soft cotton tissue. These products cover the sheet’s surface with a protective film to shield it from scratches.
How to choose the right quality material?
Plastic waste that has been processed and primary packaging can both be used to make polycarbonate. For glazing, only the first choice is appropriate. It is therefore essential to understand how to select the appropriate material. Take note of the following features of the product:
- The color of the material. The color should be homogeneous and without spots, the absence of any intransigence. Smooth and deep color speaks of the quality of the material. If spots or extraneous elements are noticeable, then secondary plastic was used. It is better not to buy such a product, even if it costs cheaper. The design does not lay down for a long time, and soon you will have to do dismantling;
- Product consistency. A solid consistency speaks of good quality, when bending, polycarbonate should not make unpleasant sounds and, moreover, not break. The product is flexible enough to bend into any direction without problems, moreover, without injuring. Flexibility is a good indicator of strength and quality;
- Weight. The weight category of goods is a very important indicator if the polycarbonate is too easy this alarming sign. So, he will simply be impractical and will not prove himself from the good side. Easy implies impaired manufacturing technology. If you install such a sheet to the roof, there may also be sad consequences. Simple weather can break the product and ruin it.
Selecting a high-quality product is essential to ensuring that the structure lasted as long as possible. Monolithic polycarbonate: pictures of products with positive attributes are shown below. There’s no reason to skimp on quality or health when these sheets are so reasonably priced.
For a specific design, it must be done correctly Selecting the right sheet thickness is crucial to maintaining the construction and avoiding long-term safety concerns. The more sunlight that reaches the transparent sheets, the better, if the goal is not met. However, matte will block the impact of sunlight.
Different design concepts are implemented using color sheets. They can be arranged, for instance, in all possible arches and door visor configurations. Ideal for such public spaces as well. such as phone booths or shelters for bus stops. Partitions separate this area between employees in an office setting.
Why they favor polycarbonate that is monolithic. The principal attributes of the content and its extent. Polycarbonate monolithic photo structures.
Polycarbonate for greenhouses: which is better, dimensions, thickness, density
All varieties of greenhouses and greenhouses with new coating material boldly squeezed conventional glass and film. For a considerable amount of time, most customers no longer have the question: is film or polycarbonate better for greenhouses? Instead, I’m curious about what kind of polycarbonate is required for a greenhouse.
The many varieties of this plastic, which differ greatly in many ways, have been addressed by the manufacturers.
Our job is to select the best solution, keeping in mind the budget and extending the lifespan of the structure without requiring repairs.
Short story
Plastic made from polymer raw materials is called polycarbonate. It’s interesting to note that the substance was acquired in 1953, nearly concurrently by the American company Generalectric and the German company Bayer.
Raw material production in the industrial sense began in the late 1960s of the 20th century. But after twenty years, Israel produced the first sheet cellular polycarbonate.
The substance had special properties.
- Transparency;
- Strength;
- Flexibility;
- High thermal insulation characteristics;
- Ease;
- Ease of installation;
- Resistance to temperature changes;
- Safety;
- Chemical resistance;
- Environmental friendliness.
Its popularity stemmed from a fantastic fusion of this polymer material’s technical attributes. Its use is wide-ranging, and in his own economy it has emerged as a preferred greenhouse covering material.
Types of plastic for greenhouses
We will discuss the varieties of this contemporary material available on the market before addressing the primary query: polycarbonate greenhouses: how to choose one.
The building is notably monolithic. and polycarbonate that is cellular (cellular). As the name suggests, monolithic consists of continuous sheets in different sizes and thicknesses. They can take on any shape with the aid of hot molding, which is very useful when building intricate structures.
Greater than cellular strength is found in monolithic materials. They don’t require any extra frames when used on ceilings. produced as transparent, colorless sheets and in a variety of colors. It is possible to use monolithic plastic in greenhouses, but the cost is high.
The air layer that occupies the cell space improves the heat-shielding capabilities, which are critical for tile and greenhouse constructions.
I should talk separately about lightweight brands’ polycarbonate. Its thinner internal and external partitions allow for the saving of raw materials and a reduction in cost; however, this has no positive effect on performance.
The only benefit is the reasonable cost. For temporary greenhouses, it serves as a reasonable substitute for the film coating.
Manufacturers from both domestic and foreign markets present their products.
From brands in Russia Leaders in producing high-grade, high-quality material are "Carat," "Sellex," and "Royalplast," which are all widely acknowledged. Businesses like Polynex and Novattro have demonstrated their worth.
The polycarbonate brands Ecoplast and Kinplast are experts in producing lightweight, less expensive modifications. The carbonates produced by Russian manufacturers stand out for being more climate-appropriate.
China is our manufacturers’ principal rival; their goods are similarly priced and lack distinctive quality.
Cellular polycarbonate for greenhouses
Which polycarbonate is most frequently used in our nation? Why is cellular polycarbonate, which creates plant shelters, preferred by so many gardeners? Calling the primary causes:
- The cost is significantly lower than monolithic sheets.
- Thermal insulation is the best.
- Light weight with high strength.
- The upper plane of the sheet always has a special coating for protection against ultraviolet radiation.
The following are some of the drawbacks: cyclic expansion, or compression of the material when temperatures change, and weak resistance to abrasive influences.
Selecting a cell polymer from the range of available types is an important decision that will affect the final design’s functionality, longevity, and building costs.
If you have extra money to spend, you should spend it on plastic from reputable manufacturers of high-end brands. However, what is the required thickness of polycarbonate in a greenhouse? The response is straightforward:
As a result, it is essential to consider every aspect, including the structure’s size, the appointment (spring or winter), the quantity of supplies, and any potential loads on the walls and roof. All of this will assist in avoiding unnecessary expenses.
Sheets come in standard dimensions of 2.1 x 6 or 2.1 x 12 meters, regardless of thickness. Considering the rationality of the cutting, the consumption of the required material should be taken into account.
An affordable choice Polycarbonate sheets used in greenhouse construction are extremely thin, especially when the structure is small.
With large dimensions, the frame will need a smaller step of the crate in order to increase the parameters of possible load-bearing loads.
As a result, consumables will cost more, and a greenhouse like this won’t last very long.
The reality of everyday life is that a sizable portion of the populace makes extremely little money. Because of this, many people purposefully choose the least expensive material for their greenhouse, hoping that things will get better financially soon and they will be able to replace the greenhouse with something of higher quality.
This method makes sense, particularly if the computation involves growing berries, vegetables, herbs, or flowers for market. After all, if it works out well, a portion of the money made can be used to create a more reliable option.
If you wish to construct a dependable greenhouse You will need to take out a sizable portion of the budget for your personal needs because the money you save will more than cover the cost of annual maintenance.
Standards of sheet thickness
Manufacturers offer polycarbonate in thicknesses of 16, 10, 8, 6, and 4 mm, as well as lightweight series with 3 to 3.5 mm. 20 and 32 mm sheets require a special order to be produced, and this applies to especially robust structures. The most common thickness of sheets used in greenhouse manufacturing is 4–8 mm.
For glazing vertical walls of sports facilities, pools, etc., a ten-one-million sheet works well. For large areas, a 16 mm thick sheet works well for roofing.
The advertising industry makes extensive use of polycarbonate because it is easily mounted, has a nice appearance, and has a long service life for shields, light boxes, and other structures made of it.
Regarding greenhouses The purpose will determine the thickness of the sheet. The bare minimum of 4 mm is acceptable, and she can work there for a few years at least. Because of Russia’s extremely harsh climate, using thicker sheets is advised.
The thickness of the sheet directly affects the radius of the bend. Polycarbonate sheets for the greenhouse’s dimensions are shown in the table below. These details will be useful in determining the best option and accurately calculating the amount of material needed when developing a preliminary project. Furthermore, the precise density of polycarbonate at the supplier or seller needs to be made clear.
Cellular polycarbonate service life
Premium brands that issue polycarbonate products state that their products have a 20-year service life. The majority of these are goods from European companies. The brand Royalplast is noteworthy among the Russians in this segment.
Produced in Russia, polycarbonate has an average service life of ten years. The quality of the Chinese equivalent, which is fairly common in our market, is frequently harmed by the use of secondary raw materials. The maximum life of such polycarbonate will be five to seven years.
The image shows the characteristics of a monolithic polycarbonate greenhouse with sheets of the material.
Practical recommendations for the choice of material and installation
Always focus on quality, regardless of the polycarbonate option you select. The manufacturer releases better products because it values its reputation more when it is more well-known. Products of superior quality have:
- Marking of the manufacturer. Usually it is located on the front side, and contains information about the thickness, size of the sheet, manufacturer, material brand and release date. The protective layer from ultravioletus is always located on the front side and when installing it should be outside. On lightweight stamps, they put the designation "Light", or do not indicate the thickness of the sheet at all. (3-4mm).
- Good appearance. The surface is smooth and even, without scratches and breaks. Sheets on both sides are covered with a thin film, on the front side the company"s logo is applied to the film. The material should not contain muddy opaque sections, bubbles and other inclusions.
One significant indicator is the package’s condition. It ought to be spotless and undamaged. The sheets are stored horizontally in the warehouse, and if there are any bends or waves on their surface, it indicates that the material is of poor quality.
Even an experienced master may not always be able to visually distinguish high-quality polycarbonate from inexpensive imitations. Examine the product paperwork prior to purchasing.
Occasionally, dishonest "left" companies will sell a subpar product and display the logos of even those brands that aren’t sold in Russia, hoping to take advantage of consumers’ ignorance or overconfidence.
In numerous ways The right installation and supply choice for the crate will determine the building’s quality. It is recommended that the fasteners be marginally larger than the screw or bolt diameter in order to prevent temperature extensions and compression from cracking the panels. A rubber washer needs to be placed underneath the fastener hat.
The actual panels Install on a unique N-shaped profile. A unique vapor-permeable profile closes off all of the material’s open edges, keeping moisture and foreign objects out of the sheet. The resulting condensate will drain through the lower edge of the sheet, which should remain open.
The hotel coating will function well and last a long time, provided all installation guidelines are followed. We really hope that our information was helpful to you and that you now know that polycarbonate is better for greenhouses.
How to select the best polycarbonate for a greenhouse: what are the qualities, types, thickness, density, materials, and coatings?
The article describes the various kinds of polycarbonate for greenhouses and evaluates which is superior. Additionally, you will learn how to select plastic and what density and thickness you prefer.
Monolithic polycarbonate
One of the best materials to use instead of glass in translucent structures is polycarbonate. Despite having mechanical properties that resemble plexiglass, polycarbonate is unlike any other polymeric material currently in use. Because of its exceptional impact resistance, high heat resistance, and simultaneous high transparency, polycarbonate is unusual.
– superior resistance to environmental factors
– High shock resistance: polycarbonate is 250 times more resilient than acrylic glass and 200 times more resilient than silicate glass.
– Lightweight: Polycarbonate weighs twice as much as glass and is 43% simpler to work with than aluminum.
Transparency: 90% light transmission, equal to or better than that of glass with a comparable surface.
– resilience to changes in temperature and atmospheric effects
– strong qualities for thermal insulation
Fire safety: Polycarbonate is a self-repair material that doesn’t spread flames and is moderately toxic, hard to ignite, and grinder.
– operational safety – polycarbonate does not break into pieces in the event that a structure is destroyed
– chemical resistance to the majority of compounds and substances.
The potential for both heat-released and cold-bending
Broad temperature range of operation, from -100 to +120 degrees
The most resilient polymer, monolithic (cast, continuous) polycarbonate offers superior UV protection, remarkable resistance to atmospheric influences, and outstanding impact resistance. When high wear resistance and fading resistance are required, this is the ideal material to use. Furthermore, monolithic polycarbonate outperforms other materials in its class in terms of impact resistance. It combines excellent transparency, low combustibility, and temperature resistance (from -100 to +120 °C). Polycarbonate can be processed, decorated, and heated formed. The material is guaranteed to be resistant to atmospheric influences for ten years, and it is guaranteed to be destroyed for five years.
Quinn PC (German: Quinn Plastics)
From 1.5 to 12 mm in thickness.
2050 x 3050 mm are the standard dimensions (1250 x 2050 mm in some nominal).
It is translucent, bronze in tone, and opal (milk).
Additional sizes, colors, and thicknesses can be ordered.
Wetted with 23 approximately s/owl.air.50%
– soaked in water at 23 degrees
At 20 o, the refractive coefficient
Transmission of light (four-millimeter-thick sheet)
Tension in stretches
Elongating with flexibility
Strength of the gap
Extending and interjecting
Stretching elasticity module
Maximum bending voltage
– A Sharpi that is uncut
– A cut Sharpie
ISO 179/1 EA, >= 4mm in thickness
– tensile strength under pressure
ISO 8256, a 4mm method
– Within the iso
The ball is pressed to determine the firmness.
Lowering the temperature with vick
Method B50, ISO 306.
Coefficient of thermal linear expansion
Temperature of thermal deformation under an ISO/R 75 load
Procedure A: 1.81 MPa
Maximum temperature at which a machine can operate:
The lowest temperature at which something can operate
The dielectric’s electrical strength (2)
Specific resistance measured in volume
VDE 0303 DIN; Section 3
Surface-level particular resistance
VDE 0303 DIN; Section 3
At 50 Hz, the dielectric constant
VDE 0303 DIN; Section 4
50 Hz dielectric indication
VDE 0303 DIN; Section 4
Part I of DIN VDE 0303
The way that fire spreads (3)
2, 4, 6, and 12 mm in England
NFP 92–501 and 505
The information above is typical for 23 °C. They cannot be used to compile a list of the material’s technical attributes; instead, they are provided to describe the material.
- 1. Thermal resistance – from several months to several years. The data are indicated taking into account thermo -oxidative destruction, which causes a deterioration in qualities (fragility). In addition, the maximum operating temperature for all thermoplastics depends on the duration and strength of mechanical pressure, the effects of which the material is exposed.
- 2. The tests were carried out on the sample 1 mm thick. Like other materials, the electrical strength of the dielectric decreases with an increase in the thickness of the material, t.e. For sheets 3 mm thick, this indicator is 14 kV/mm, for sheets with a thickness of 6 mm – 9 kV/mm.
- 3. These data do not reflect the dangers that the material can be represented in a real fire.
The most durable material for glazing – polycarbonate – has a shock that exceeds the shock of the glass of the same thickness by 250 times. The impact resistance in the isoad with a cut at 23 ° C is 30-40 times higher than that of ordinary PMMA, and even at -55 ° C-3-4 times higher than that of ordinary PMMA at room temperature. This actually indestructible material provides the maximum possible protection against vandalism, thefts, etc.D. Monolithic polycarbonate corresponds to the A3 class according to DIN 52 290 (the highest for protective glazing). This means that he withstands a stake of a steel ball weighing 4.11 kg falling three times to the same sheet from a height of 9.5 m.
Effects of the atmosphere
The resistance of monolithic polycarbonate to atmospheric influences is excellent. An additional UV-ray-blocking coating is applied to the sheets with the aid of cutting-edge technology. The material has undergone a rigorous testing program since its debut, which includes artificial aging (using xenon lamps to simulate intense UV exposure) and external use over an actual length of time. These experiments demonstrated that even after extended external use, monolithic polycarbonate maintains its high impact resistance. Yellowing is hardly perceptible and light transmission is still quite high. A ten-year guarantee for impact resistance and optical qualities attests to this.
Monolithic polycarbonate sheets are glossy and have outstanding transparency. Since UV radiation is totally absorbed, the material’s light transmission reaches 90% (for a sheet with a thickness of 1 mm) and gradually drops as thickness increases.
The material polycarbonate is processed well. However, because of the high friction, extra precautions must be taken to avoid melting and overheating. A machine stop may be necessary occasionally to allow the product to cool down if high speed cutting is used to guarantee good surface quality.
Wood saws can cut sheets with ease. High-speed steel cutting should not be used since friction causes polycarbonate to melt. Industrial laser installations can be used for laser cutting. An internal voltage may occur as a result of the high local temperature, and the cut typically appears charred. On a machine that has been adjusted, hydromechanical cutting can produce good results.
Prior to using heat forming, it is advised to dry the sheet. It is safe to heat the dried sheet to 180–190 °C. The sheet can readily lend itself with exhaust and bend in accordance with a specified profile at this temperature.
1. Molding with vacuum
2. Forming pressure
3. Molding without charge
4. Flexibility along the line of heating
For small products, for which high shock strength is not crucial, it is recommended to use pistols for hot harden glue. The best properties are the adhesives of hot hardening on a polyamide basis, although other, for example, ethylenevinyl acetate adhesives give good results. For gluing in loaded structures, which must have high shock strength and resistance to atmospheric influences, silicone glue Poligal Silicone – 507 (Israel) is recommended. Glue provides polycarbonate connection to metals, glass and other plastics. In cases where high connection strength is required, shock and chemical resistance, as well as high transparency, polyurethane adhesives are recommended for 17017 and not 1908 of Engineering Chemical Ltd. For gluing flat parts to flat surfaces, it is recommended to use double -sided adhesive tape based on acrylic foamed glue type 4830 manufactured by 3M. There are many other adhesives compatible with polycarbonate materials, however, the use of adhesives based on solvents should be avoided. Such adhesives cause serious damage in critical places of the product. It should also be borne in mind that some adhesive tapes that provide gluing when pressed contain a solvent or traces of a solvent that can cause cracking under the influence of voltage a few months after gluing.
The best cleaning method is to use dishwashing software. Steer clear of ammonia-containing glass cleaning solutions as they degrade polycarbonate. Use isopropyl alcohol for cleaning and degreasing surfaces before painting.
Typically, two-component paints with an epoxy or polyurethane base are utilized. Paints that are based on solvents should be avoided because polycarbonate can be harmed by most solvents and diluents.
Material | Properties |
Acrylic | Durable, transparent, lightweight, prone to scratching |
PVC | Cost-effective, lightweight, less durable than polycarbonate |
Investigating alternative materials can provide practicality and visual appeal if you’re seeking for a roofing material to replace polycarbonate.
Acrylic is a good choice because of its strength and clarity. Because acrylic sheets are lightweight and offer superior UV protection, handling them during installation is made simpler. Additionally, they provide effective thermal insulation, which aids in preserving cozy interior temperatures. Furthermore, acrylic is incredibly resilient and impact-resistant, which makes it a dependable material for locations that frequently experience extreme weather.
Another good substitute that combines flexibility and durability is fiberglass. Because fiberglass panels are robust and lightweight, they are simple to install and move. They are renowned for having outstanding light transmission, which makes it possible for natural light to efficiently illuminate areas. Fiberglass panels are appropriate for both residential and commercial roofing applications because they are corrosion-resistant and able to endure severe weather.
If you are looking for environmentally friendly options, you should think about recycled materials-based polycarbonate substitutes. In addition to having a less negative effect on the environment, these alternatives are as durable and effective as conventional polycarbonate sheets. Recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) materials support sustainable building practices and offer superior UV resistance and thermal insulation.
The final decision regarding roofing material is based on your personal preferences, financial constraints, and needs. Regarding durability, light transmission, and environmental impact, there are distinct advantages to be gained from using acrylic, fiberglass, or recycled alternatives. You can discover a roofing solution that satisfies your aesthetic goals and practical needs by investigating these options.