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Materials

Polycarbonate (PC) moulding: transparent, impact-resistant components

We injection-mould polycarbonate components to customer drawings: a thermoplastic as clear as glass and one of the most impact-resistant plastics.

What is polycarbonate (PC)?

Polycarbonate is an amorphous thermoplastic that combines glass-like optical clarity with one of the highest impact strengths among plastics, and keeps its properties over a wide temperature range.

It is stiff and dimensionally stable, and is available in flame-retardant, glass-fibre reinforced and UV-stabilised grades. Some solvents and chemicals can cause cracking under stress (stress cracking): this is taken into account in the design.

Properties of polycarbonate

  • High impact resistance
  • Optical transparency
  • Good thermal and chemical resistance

Indicative continuous service temperatures for the most common grades: the exact value depends on the grade and formulation and should be checked on the data sheet of the chosen material.

What is polycarbonate (PC) used for?

  • Transparent diffusers and covers for lamps and spotlights
  • Impact-resistant screens and guards
  • Housings for electrical devices
  • Sight glasses and inspection windows
  • Technical components exposed to heat

How we mould polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate is hygroscopic: the granules must be carefully dried, otherwise moisture degrades the polymer and leaves streaks on the part. It is moulded at high temperatures, with a hot mould to reduce internal stresses.

PC or another material?

The material is chosen according to the conditions of use of the component. The closest alternatives:

Compare all materials in the comparison table

Do you have a component to make in PC?

Send us your drawing or a sample: the contact form opens with the material already selected. If the material is still open, we will choose it together.

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