Polycarbonate Black Opaque Sheet
- SKU:
- PC370
Description
Polycarbonate, also known as bisphenol A (BPA), is a nearly indestructible plastic first developed by Dr. H. Schnell of Bayer AG, Germany, and Dr. Daniel W. Fox of General Electric Company, USA in 1953. It is commonly used across various industries, including security applications, automotive components, medical devices, and in architectural designs.
This Polycarbonate Black Opaque Sheet is a robust, UV-resistant product that delivers exceptional impact strength and superior dimensional stability. Its opaque black finish provides excellent light-blocking capabilities, making it ideal for applications requiring complete light exclusion or enhanced privacy. It is a versatile, cost-effective solution for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications, including privacy panels, machine guards, enclosures, signage, and structural components.
Substrate Suggestions
The Polycarbonate Black Opaque Sheet is recommended for applications where high impact strength, light-blocking properties, and superior dimensional stability are essential. This product is particularly effective in environments where security, privacy, and aesthetic appeal are paramount.
Bonding Guidance
The Polycarbonate Black Opaque Sheet is well-suited for both industrial and commercial projects. It can be effortlessly cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools, making it ideal for creating privacy panels, machine covers, signage, and enclosures that require both strength and complete opacity.
Additional Information
This product is intended for professional use and is not designed for general consumer applications. Plastic-Craft Products reserves the right to provide a similar quantity of a comparable product if necessary.
This product cannot be shipped to certain counties with restrictions. Please verify your shipping destination before placing an order.
Technical Properties
Material Characteristics
The Polycarbonate Black Opaque Sheet is a tough, dimensionally stable, opaque thermoplastic that maintains its properties over a wide temperature range from -40°F to 280°F. It has the highest impact resistance of any thermoplastic, and its black color ensures complete light-blocking.
Key Benefits
- High impact resistance
- Complete light exclusion
- Excellent creep resistance
- Wide temperature range
- Superior dimensional stability
- Good electrical insulating properties
- Self-extinguishing behavior
- Enhanced privacy and security
Applications
- Privacy panels
- Machine guards
- Security glazing
- Architectural cladding
- Automotive components
- Electronic enclosures
- Signage and displays
- Structural components
- Protective barriers
Detailed Polycarbonate Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | 9,500 psi |
| Impact Strength | 13 ft-lb/in (Notched Izod) |
| Density | 0.043 lb/in³ |
| Water Absorption | 0.12% |
| Flexural Strength | 15,000 psi |
| Compressive Strength | 12,000 psi |
| Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion | 3.9 × 10–5 in./in./°F |
| Heat Deflection Temperature | 270°F (at 264 psi) |
| Dielectric Strength | 390 V/mil |
| Flammability Rating | H-B (V-0 at 0.45" thickness) |
Installation & Maintenance
Installation
Polycarbonate Black Opaque Sheets can be cut, drilled, and shaped using standard tools. Ensure that the surfaces are clean and dry before installation. Use compatible adhesives and sealants to secure the polycarbonate in place.
Maintenance
Polycarbonate sheets are easy to clean and polish using a clean cloth and suitable cleaning compounds. Light scratches can be removed with special abrasive compounds designed for polycarbonate materials.
Safety & Handling
Safety and Environmental Precautions
Polycarbonate is generally safe to handle and use. However, precautions should be taken when cutting or machining the material to avoid inhaling dust or fumes. Always use proper personal protective equipment, including gloves and safety goggles.
First Aid
Inhalation: If dust or fumes are inhaled, move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes. If irritation persists, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash skin with soap and water. If irritation occurs, seek medical attention.
Ingestion: If swallowed, seek medical attention immediately.
Product Comparison
Compare Polycarbonate with Other Materials
| Feature | Polycarbonate | Acrylic | Glass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | 250x stronger than glass | 30x stronger than glass | Breakable |
| Light Transmission | Opaque, 0% | 92% | 88% |
| Weight | Lightweight | Lightweight | Heavy |
| Temperature Resistance | -40°F to 280°F | -30°F to 170°F | 32°F to 212°F |
| Cost | Moderate | Lower | Higher |
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I clean Polycarbonate sheets?
A: Use a mild soap and water solution with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can scratch the surface.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be cut to custom sizes?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets can be easily cut using standard tools. We also offer custom cutting services.
Q: Is Polycarbonate UV resistant?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets are UV stabilized, making them suitable for outdoor applications.
Q: How does Polycarbonate compare to glass in terms of safety?
A: Polycarbonate is significantly safer than glass due to its high impact resistance. It is 250 times stronger than glass, making it shatter-resistant and ideal for applications where security and durability are critical, such as in protective barriers, machine guards, and architectural cladding.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be used in extreme temperatures?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets are designed to withstand a wide temperature range from -40°F to 280°F, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments, including areas with extreme heat or cold.
Q: Are Polycarbonate sheets recyclable?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate is a recyclable material. It can be reprocessed and reused, contributing to sustainability efforts and reducing environmental impact.
Q: What are the common applications of Polycarbonate Black Opaque sheets?
A: Polycarbonate Black Opaque sheets are commonly used in applications that require complete light exclusion, such as privacy panels, machine covers, security glazing, signage, and electronic enclosures. Their opaque nature also makes them ideal for architectural projects where aesthetics and privacy are important.
Q: Can Polycarbonate sheets be easily machined?
A: Yes, Polycarbonate sheets can be easily machined using standard tools. They can be cut, drilled, and thermoformed without cracking or breaking, making them ideal for custom fabrication and structural applications.
Q: Does Polycarbonate yellow over time?
A: Polycarbonate Black Opaque sheets are UV stabilized, which helps prevent yellowing over time. This makes them suitable for long-term outdoor use where exposure to sunlight is a factor.
Q: How do Polycarbonate sheets handle chemical exposure?
A: Polycarbonate has good chemical resistance to many substances, but it is advisable to avoid exposure to certain chemicals, such as strong acids and bases, to maintain the material's integrity and appearance.