Why Weprofab Solid Polycarbonate Sheet

Weprofab solid polycarbonate sheet is very popular around the world since it is affordable, durable and more lightweight.

Polycarbonate sheet is known for polycarbonate panels and a superb replacement for glass.

It is used for a huge types of roofing projects and somehow the best substitute for glass.

Solid polycarbonate sheet usually used by the engineers because it gives greater privacy levels for your house or even for your business.

Solid polycarbonate sheet has an advantageous feature including higher strength impact which can be greater than tempered glass.

It has a UV protection that can protect your eyes from the UV light.

Our solid polycarbonate sheet can be applied in various industry applications like in agriculture, electronics and electrical industry, construction, automotive industry, and even decoration purposes.

Weprofab is the world-leading manufacturer of solid polycarbonate sheets in China.

We manufacture solid polycarbonate sheet that offers unbreakable glass-like transparency.

We design our solid polycarbonate sheet with unique flexibility, that can be curved or bent option for architectural requests.

All of our solid polycarbonate sheet is suited perfectly for the outdoor conditions.

What’s best in our solid polycarbonate sheet?

The qualities of our product is unique that can’t be seen by others.

Guaranteed 100% flammability resistance, and heat resistance with the highest optical clarity.

At Weprofab, we continue to make and design different solid polycarbonate sheet that passed the international standards in order to meet the demand of our valued customers.

And work astronomically together with our expert engineers and hardworking staff enable us to provide the best products with great performance at very competitive pricing.

It is difficult to find a trusted supplier for your business but in Weprofab, we make sure that we can cater and deliver all your solid polycarbonate sheet need.

If you are interested in our solid polycarbonate sheet, don’t hesitate to contact us we will answer you immediately and give the best product for you.

The Ultimate FAQ Guide For Solid Polycarbonate Sheets

Polycarbonates are a group of thermoplastic polymers that contain carbonate groups in their chemical structures.

Polycarbonate sheeting is typically polycarbonate that has been formed into a sheet via injection moulding, structural foam moulding, extrusion, vacuum forming or blow moulding.

Polycarbonates used in engineering are strong, tough materials, and some grades are optically transparent. They are easily worked, moulded, and thermoformed.

There are various types of polycarbonates which are solid and textured, corrugated and multiwall polycarbonate sheets.

This ultimate guide will answer all the questions you have about solid polycarbonate sheets.

What Is Solid Polycarbonate Sheet?

Solid polycarbonate sheet

Solid polycarbonate is a lightweight, durable and safe alternative to glass.

They have high impact resistance and weather resistance.

Some of them also have UV protection in order to slow and help prevent damage from direct sunlight when being used outdoors.

This is why you can use solid polycarbonate sheets on a huge variety of roofing projects.

Solid polycarbonate sheets are thick for a solid and virtually unbreakable roofing system.

You can also use solid polycarbonate sheets for protective screens, vertical glazing, bus shelters, windows and doors, train windows and riot shields.

Solid polycarbonate sheets deliver the transparency of glass, are UV protected on both faces and are ideal for skylights, helmets, security glazing, balustrades, balconies and more.

Where Do Solid Polycarbonate SheetsUsually Used For?

Because of its durability, weight, and flexibility, polycarbonate is incredibly versatile and is used in a variety of markets.

You can use solid polycarbonate sheets in many applications.

1. ConservatoriesAnd Canopies

Conservatory Roof

You can use solid polycarbonate sheets for conservatory roofs and canopies due to the durability and strength of the material.

It is also very lightweight.

You will find that polycarbonate is nearly indestructible so they can withstand rain, hail and harsh weather.

2. Riot Shield

 Riot Shield

You will find that polycarbonate is very commonly used in riot shields due to its bulletproof quality and high impact strength.

They are also transparent which allows the user to see rioters or attackers from behind the shield.

3. Windows and Vertical Glazing

Polycarbonate Windows

Polycarbonate windows provide great thermal insulation and high light transmission.

You can install polycarbonate windows as an alternative to glass because it is easier to install, lighter and less expensive.

Solid polycarbonate will provide you a clear view when used as windows or vertical glazing.

4. Cladding

 Polycarbonate Cladding

You can use polycarbonate cladding for thermal insulation and weather resistance for buildings.

The cladding does not need to be waterproof and can direct water away so that it does not seep into the structure of the building.

With cladding, you can also protect from harmful UV rays and hide elements of the building that are unsightly.

5. Curved and Industrial Roof Lights

 Polycarbonate Roof Light

Polycarbonate roof lights are also called polycarbonate skylights.

You can use these polycarbonate roof lights to allow natural lighting to illuminate the rooms of your house or your building.

They are also resistant to impact so that your roof lights can withstand hailstorms or anything else that can cause something to hit your roof lights.

6. Bus Shelters

Polycarbonate Bus Shelter

You can use solid polycarbonate sheets to build bus shelters that are extremely weather resistant.

However, polycarbonate bus shelters may have a higher air temperature which makes it less suitable for use in tropical regions.

How Thick Is Solid Polycarbonate Sheet?

Solid, glass-clear, polycarbonate is available in a range of thicknesses from 3mm up to 12mm, as well as a 6mm obscure grade for privacy glazing.

If you’re using polycarbonate, a minimum thickness of 3mmis recommended for applications such as replacing shed windows to provide adequate security.

If you’re replacing or installing greenhouse panes, you may want to opt for 4mm instead.

For roofing applications, you may need to use thicker solid polycarbonate sheets.

How Can You Install Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

This video shows you how to install solid polycarbonate sheets.

Below are some points to take note of when installing solid polycarbonate sheets.

1. If you are using screws to install the solid polycarbonate sheet, do not screw it too tightly. Otherwise, the sheet may crack.

2. Use neutral glass glue to seal the sides of the solid polycarbonate sheet.

Do not substitute waterproof adhesive tape for asphalt or a waterproof adhesive PVC pad as waterproof glue. Avoid the use of acidic glue.

3. When installing solid polycarbonate sheets with a metal frame, drill the sheet first before fixing it with screws.

The coefficient of linear expansion of the PC sheet is about six times larger than metal, so if care is not taken the PC sheet will crack or deform during changes in the weather and surrounding temperature.

What Are Some Advantages/Benefits Of Polycarbonate Roofing?

1. Nearly Unbreakable

Polycarbonate can withstand extreme amounts of force and are nearly unbreakable.

This is why you can use them in roofing applications, windshields, and windows.

2. Bullet Resistant

There are bullet resistant varieties of polycarbonate which are used in police shields.

You will find that solid polycarbonate sheet is extremely strong compared to other alternative materials.

3. Lightweight

You can easily transport and install solid polycarbonate sheets anywhere due to its lightweight.

This makes it extremely convenient to make use of solid polycarbonate sheets.

4. UV Resistant

With the UV blocking capabilities of polycarbonate, it is a perfect material for constructing awnings or sunroom roofing.

These properties of polycarbonate also make it the ideal material for you to use when constructing greenhouses.

5. Resistant To Extreme Temperatures

Polycarbonate panels are resistant to extreme temperature either hot or cold, all throughout the sunlight, snow, rain, and extreme impact.

Hence if you use solid polycarbonate sheets, they will last for many years without fading or discolouring while also remaining damage free from any impact over the years.

6. Affordable

You will find that solid polycarbonate sheets are more affordable than glass.

What Is TheDurabilityOf Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

It is virtually unbreakable with 250 times the impact strength of float glass.

Polycarbonates’ performance conforms to 16 CFR 1201, ANSI Z97.1 and the following:

1. Coefficient of expansion: .0000375 inch per inch per degree F (0.0000675 ratio per degree C).
2. Modulus of elasticity: 340,000 pounds per square inch (2343.96 MPa).
3. Flexural strength: 13,500 pounds per square inch (93.06 MPa).
4. Deflection temperature: 270 degrees F (132.2 degrees C) under 274 pounds per square inch (1.88 MPa) load.
5. Self-ignition temperature: Minimum 1000 degrees F (537.7 degrees C).
6. Smoke density rating: Maximum 75.
7. Maximum allowable continuous service temperature: 180 degrees F (82.2 degrees C).

What Are The DisadvantagesOf Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

One downside to polycarbonate sheets is that they are not scratch resistant unless you purchase scratch-resistant polycarbonate sheets.

You may easily dent or scratch the surface if you do not take care of the surface.

Solid polycarbonate sheets are also not very soundproof which may be an issue if you are using them for windows or roof lights.

Furthermore, they are not great at regulating temperature in a room so strong sunlight may pass through the material and heat up the room quickly.

What Colours For Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Are Available?

There are three colours available – Clear, Bronze Tint and Opal.

1.  Clear Polycarbonate Sheet

Clear Solid Polycarbonate Sheet

Clear polycarbonate sheets allow the highest light transmission of 85% and you can see through the clear sheet.

You will find these especially useful for windows.

2. Bronze Tinted Polycarbonate Sheet

Bronze Tint Solid Polycarbonate Sheet

You can use bronze solid polycarbonate sheets for applications where you need more UV protection as it has a light transmission of 50%.

3. Opal Polycarbonate Sheet

Opal Solid Polycarbonate Sheet

Opal polycarbonate sheets are essentially white polycarbonate sheets.

You can use them when you need an opaque surface to keep out light yet retaining the properties of polycarbonate.

They allow light transmission of 28% to pass through.

How Do You Determine If A Solid Polycarbonate Sheet Is Good Quality?

Observe the surface of the solid polycarbonate sheet.

If the surface has a lot of bubbles and particles, that solid polycarbonate sheet is not the greatest.

Observe the transparency of the solid polycarbonate sheet.

If it is yellowish or very transparent, it means the endurance of the raw material may not be good enough.

Are Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Fire Resistant?

Yes. It has a particularly high fire rating and is self-extinguishing.

When the source of ignition (or flame) is removed from the sheet, it will self-extinguish.

Unlike acrylic, solid polycarbonate sheets have a class 1 rating.

How Much Heat Can Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Withstand?

Unlike glass, polycarbonate can withstand extreme temperatures making it safer to use in building construction, and household items.

Polycarbonate can be exposed to temperatures around 270°F for several hours.

They can also be momentarily exposed to heat of up to 1166°F without breaking, distorting or absorbing heat.

Traditional glass can’t withstand high temperatures and can absorb heat, making it impossible to touch and increasing the chances of it breaking.

How Heavy Is Solid Polycarbonate Sheet Compared To Glass?

Solid polycarbonate is less than half the weight of glass.

You can have significant cost savings in terms of transportation and handling.

How Are Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Cleaned?

You can clean solid polycarbonate sheets using mild soap and warm water and a soft cloth.

If there is grease and paint, use isopropyl alcohol dabbed on a soft cloth to remove grease and paint, and then wash with mild soap and rinse with warm water.

Can Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Be Recycled?

Yes, they are recyclable.

In the recycling process, you sort, shred and wash the polycarbonate.

The material is then turned into granulate that manufacturers can subsequently use to produce polycarbonate sheets and other objects.

There are new methods to recycle polycarbonates that prevent the leaching of Bisphenol-A.

Can I Paint Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

Yes, you can paint solid polycarbonate sheets.

However, certain paints are incompatible with polycarbonates as their component chemicals may degrade the product.

How Do You Polish Edges For Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

You can polish solid polycarbonate sheets via vapour polishing, buffing or direct machine polishing.

Vapour polishing is the most common method and uses a solvent vapour to flow the surface.

This is effective for both interior and exterior surfaces.

This video shows you how vapour polishing is done on a polycarbonate sheet.

You can generally use buffing on exterior surfaces and this method uses a spinning wheel.

However, the wheel will leave tiny scratches and does not produce an extremely clear surface, unlike vapour polishing.

Direct machine polishing uses specialized tools.

Are Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Better Than Acrylic Sheets?

Solid polycarbonate sheets can be compared to acrylic sheets in various aspects.

· Strength

Polycarbonate sheets are much stronger, having 250 times the impact resistance of glass.

Acrylic has only 10 times the impact resistance of glass.

· Clarity

Acrylic is much clearer with a light transmission of 92% compared to 88% for polycarbonate.

· Heat Resistance

You will find that solid polycarbonate sheets have much higher heat resistance as it can handle temperatures up to 490°C.

Acrylic can only be used at temperatures ranging from 86°C – 194°C.

· Durability

If you drill an acrylic sheet near its edges or if you use a drill bit that is not designed for plastic, the sheet will chip easily.

On the other hand, you will feel a slight resistance when you initially drill a polycarbonate sheet.

The solid polycarbonate sheet will not crack even if you drill it close to the edge of the sheet with a standard drill bit.

· Fire Resistance

You will find that solid polycarbonate sheet is not very flammable, while acrylic is more flammable and may burn slowly.

· Price

Acrylic is cheaper than polycarbonate which has a 35% higher cost.

However, this is because polycarbonate has higher impact resistance and strength which are valuable properties.

What Is The Difference Between Solid And Multiwall Polycarbonate Sheets?

Solid polycarbonate sheet is a single solid layer, while the multiwall polycarbonate sheet has at least two walls.

A multiwall polycarbonate sheet or hollow sheet is superior to solid sheet in terms of thermal insulation as it traps air in its hollow structure.

Multiwall polycarbonate sheets are also much lighter compared to solid polycarbonate sheets.

However, condensation can collect between the layers of a multiwall polycarbonate sheet.

It’s hard to keep it dry and mould can grow between the layers if the water is not removed.

If you need something that is very strong, solid polycarbonate sheets may be the best choice or you.

Is Polycarbonate Stronger Than Glass?

Polycarbonate is a transparent plastic with similar clarity to glass.

However, it is muchstronger than glass.

It is extremely durable having 250 times the strength of glass.

You will find that it is also 30 times stronger than acrylic.

What Are The Different Types Of Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

There are different types of solid polycarbonate sheets ranging from abrasion-resistant material to antistatic material.

1. Clear Polycarbonate Sheets

Clear Polycarbonate

Clear polycarbonate sheets are one of the most commonly used sheets and you can use them as windows or roofing.

2. Abrasion-Resistant Polycarbonate

Abrasion–Resistant Polycarbonate

Abrasion-resistant polycarbonate sheets are very resistant to scratches.

This means they can maintain a polished surface for long periods of time.

3. Mirrored Polycarbonate

 Mirrored Polycarbonate

You can use mirrored polycarbonate sheets as gym mirrors because of its ability to reflect images and withstand impact.

4. Anti-Static Polycarbonate

Anti-Static Polycarbonate

You will find that anti-static polycarbonate sheets are coated with a metal and plastic mixture that prevents static electricity from building up on the surface.

This prevents discharge of static electricity in sensitive environments such as the laboratory.

5. Bullet Resistant Polycarbonate

Bullet Resistant Polycarbonate

While polycarbonate has bullet resistant properties, you can reinforce a solid polycarbonate sheet further with lamination in layers to increase the ballistic impact it can absorb.

Can You Walk On Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

No, you cannot walk directly on polycarbonate sheets.

Polycarbonate sheeting is not intended to support the weight of a person.

If you have a solid polycarbonate roof panel, do not walk on it.

Use stepping ladders or place crawling boards between two or more rafters to create a path for walking.

How Long Do Polycarbonate Roof Panels Last?

They are expected to last at least 10 to 20 years.

Does Condensation Affect The Performance Of A Solid Polycarbonate Sheet?

Polycarbonate sheets can develop condensation as a result of environmental factors, which is common with many materials used for glazing.

This condensation does not affect the performance of a solid polycarbonate sheet.

The effects are purely visual and usually temporary.

Why Does The Solid Polycarbonate Sheet Turn Yellow?

When the solid polycarbonate sheet is exposed to UV rays, it changes colour and starts to become yellow.

This phenomenon happens because the connections between the polycarbonate molecules lose their strength.

You can reduce the likelihood of this happening by using high quality polycarbonate

How Do You Join Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

Polycarbonate sheets can be glued together in 2 ways.

1. Glue

You can join two solid polycarbonate sheets together with epoxide glue.

If you use regular glues or solvents your polycarbonate sheets will appear to have tiny little cracks all over the surface and underneath the polycarbonate.

You won’t be able to feel these cracks and the polycarbonate will remain strong.

However, the material will not look clear.

2. Fusing with methylene chloride

Using this method will give you a seamless result and a stronger bond between your solid polycarbonate sheets.

However, this should be done in a ventilated area as methylene chloride is toxic.

Apply your methylene chloride along the edge of your polycarbonate sheet.

Use a small amount and give it a moment to soak into your polycarbonate sheet.

When it feels slightly sticky, place this edge onto the surface of the other polycarbonate sheet where you would like it to fuse.

Press your two polycarbonate sheets so that they stay in constant contact to get a strong bond.

This video shows you how to fuse solid polycarbonate sheets together with methylene chloride.

Can Hail Storm Damage Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

An average hail storm can be very damaging due to the impact created by falling hailstones.

Solid polycarbonate sheets will be able to withstand most hail damage.

Can Solid Polycarbonate Sheets Be Laser Cut?

No, polycarbonate is not a material that can be laser cut.

Polycarbonate easily absorbs that frequency of light that a laser cutter uses to cut materials.

If you try to laser cut polycarbonate, you will create soot and ruin the clarity of the material.

It can however be cut on a CNC machine.

What Are The Do’s And Don’ts On Installation Of Solid Polycarbonate Sheets On Greenhouses?

1. Ask your manufacturer for the right sheet specs

There are many types of polycarbonate sheets and you should know which ones are the best for your greenhouse.

You’d have to look for sheets that are durable and that filter the appropriate amount of sunlight.

The sheet should also have a pitch of the right degree for your greenhouse and be weather resistant with a good warranty of around 10 years.

Although standard panel sizes are 48 by 72 inches, you can talk to manufacturers for special orders up to 36 feet.

The ideal thickness of the solid polycarbonate sheet used for a greenhouse is 4mm.

You may wish to consult with your supplier to get recommendations on the right polycarbonate panel for your greenhouse.

2. Do not store your polycarbonate sheets with the protective film on in direct sunlight

Polycarbonate sheets come with protective films.

When stored under direct sunlight, the protective film will melt onto the sheets, making them impossible to remove.

3. Do not remove the protective films before you’re ready to install

The protective films serve to protect one side of the sheets from UV rays so that the sheet can last longer.

When you remove the protective films before installation, you won’t be able to tell which side is UV protected.

This will be a problem because you always need to make sure that the UV protected side is facing the sun.

You can pull the protective film slightly at the edges but not remove it completely when you’re installing the edges.

4. Pre-drill holes that are larger than the screws

Polycarbonate panels expand and contract due to temperature changes, and you need to make room for this.

You should use a slightly larger drill bit when drilling holes to allow for expansion and contraction.

4. Do not install solid polycarbonate sheets with the ribs running horizontally

This is one of the most common mistakes made when installing polycarbonate sheets for your roof.

You need to install polycarbonate panels with the ribs are running vertically.

This is so any water or liquid on your roof can drain downwards.

When the ribs run horizontally, moisture gets trapped, leading to the growth of mould.

Doing this will shorten the lifespan of your panel and lessen the amount of sunlight it absorbs.

Is A Solid Polycarbonate Sheet As Clear As Glass?

Solid polycarbonate sheets nearly have as much clarity as glass but glass is still the winner by a little bit.

However, you can have a UV-resistant layer over polycarbonate that will filter out harmful UV rays.

Can You Bend Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

Yes, you can.

Polycarbonates are thermoplastic so at specific temperatures they will soften.

When this happens, you can mould them into various shapes.

Solid polycarbonate sheets will not shatter when you bend them.

There are various ways to bend a solid polycarbonate sheet.

1. Cold Line Bending

Bending factors include sheet thickness, angle of bending and the tooling.

Bending Parameters

When using cold line bending, ensure that the bend maintains the desired angle after springing back.

The sheet should be bent 20-40° larger than the desired angle.

Cold Line Bending

Cold line bends usually do not exceed 90°, as this may exceed its elastic limit.

This technique isn’t recommended for polycarbonate variants that are hard coated, or even UV-protected.

It is because this type of bending will likely weaken the efficacy of such additives along the bend line.

2. Cold Curving

Cold curving is the process of bending the whole polycarbonate sheet to create a dome or an arch.

You can use this technique to create swimming pool enclosures that have curved polycarbonate roofs.

Swimming Pool Enclosure Cold Curving

3. Break Bending Polycarbonate

This is a technique that uses a device known as a press brake to alter the sheet into the desired final form.

You can use a press brake to form a bend by clamping the solid polycarbonate sheet between a matching punch and die.

While often used to bend metal, you can also apply this method to polycarbonate.

This video shows you how to bend polycarbonate without heat.

4. Hot Line Bending

Hot Line Bending

When you heat a solid polycarbonate sheet to between 155°C and 165°C, it becomes pliable enough to be bent to an angle.

You can soften the sheet using a long and heated item such as an electric heater or a hot wire.

You can heat the sheet either on both sides or on one side depending on how thick it is.

It is recommended that you heat the sheet on both sides if the polycarbonate sheet is thicker than 3mm.

5. Bending Polycarbonate Sheet with a Heat Gun

Using a heat gun to bend a polycarbonate sheet has the same principles as hotline bending.

However, when you use a heat gun, you have to move the heat gun constantly along the bend line and flip over the polycarbonate sheet to ensure both sides get heated.

This video shows you how you can bend the sheet with a heat gun.

Will Silicone Stick To Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

Yes, it will.

In fact, silicone rubber sealants are often used to install solid polycarbonate sheets.

It withstands the damaging effects of weather.

You should apply the silicone sealant at a temperature range between 40° F to 105° F (5° C to 40° C) to a dry solid polycarbonate sheet.

How Do You Cut Solid Polycarbonate Sheets?

You can use a circular saw to cut the solid polycarbonate sheet.

This video shows you how you can cut the sheet.

Can You Use Acetone OnSolid Polycarbonate Sheets?

Acetone can weaken polycarbonate on contact to the point it will snap easily by hand.

The polycarbonate is only weak when there is still liquid acetone in contact with it.

If the acetone is allowed to evaporate and dry completely the solid polycarbonate sheet will return to being strong.

How Do You Repair Scratches On A Solid Polycarbonate Sheet?

Solid polycarbonate sheets can get scratches easily unless you are using scratch-resistant polycarbonate.

Firstly, use warm water and mild non-abrasive soap to clean the windshield.

Dry it with a soft cloth that is made out of cotton or microfiber.

Find a buffing compound that is graded for plastics.

Use a cloth to rub the buffing compound over the scratched parts of the solid polycarbonate sheet.

Wash off the buffing compound with warm water and soap.

Now, apply a polishing compound that is meant for plastic use.

Using a polish that contains wax will ensure that bugs or other dust will not stick to your solid polycarbonate sheet.

Please do not use paper products to clean your solid polycarbonate sheet as it will create more scratches.