Polycarbonate is one of the most commonly chosen materials in modern industry. Thanks to its exceptional resistance to damage, light weight, and transparency, it serves as an excellent alternative to glass and other plastics. It is widely used in construction, the automotive industry, advertising, and even in medicine. Its easy processing makes it a popular choice among designers and engineers, who adapt it to the specific needs of various industries.
Applications of Polycarbonates – Where Do They Work Best?
Polycarbonates are versatile plastics used in numerous industries. In construction, they are utilized for producing skylights, facade panels, and roofing, as they offer high resistance to weather conditions and excellent light transmission. They are also widely used in the advertising industry—informational signs, billboards, and screen covers made from polycarbonate are durable and resistant to mechanical damage.
This material is also commonly used in the automotive and public transport sectors. Polycarbonate is used to manufacture windows, headlight covers, and interior vehicle components. Due to its strength and lightness, it is suitable for aerospace and aviation applications, such as cockpit covers. Additionally, the medical sector benefits from its properties—polycarbonate is used in the production of diagnostic equipment, eyeglass lenses, and protective elements.
Polycarbonate Processing Methods – Cutting, Bending, and Forming
Processing polycarbonate requires appropriate tools and techniques to maintain its mechanical and aesthetic properties. Cutting can be performed using circular saws, lasers, or milling machines. Each of these methods allows for precise shaping without the risk of cracking or chipping. Laser cutting offers an additional advantage—a smooth edge finish, eliminating the need for further processing.
Bending polycarbonate is usually done with heat, as the material becomes more pliable at elevated temperatures. This process enables the creation of curved elements, which are widely used in construction and design. Vacuum forming is another technique that allows for the production of complex shapes, commonly applied in manufacturing machine housings and interior fittings.
Why Choose Polycarbonate?
Polycarbonate stands out for its exceptional impact resistance and mechanical durability. Compared to glass, it is significantly lighter while being up to several hundred times stronger. For this reason, it often replaces traditional materials in applications where safety and durability are crucial, such as protective covers and bulletproof glass.
Polycarbonate also features high transparency, making it a preferred material in architecture and interior design. Additionally, its ease of processing allows it to be tailored to a wide range of needs. It is also highly resistant to weather conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, regardless of temperature or humidity levels.