The characteristics of polycarbonate are quite like those of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA; acrylic), but transparency, excellent toughness, thermal stability and a very good dimensional stability make polycarbonate one of the most widely used engineering thermoplastics in applications demanding high performance properties. This amorphous thermoplastic is highly transparent to visible light – it rates highest among transparent, rigid thermoplastics – and has better light transmission characteristics than many kinds of glass.
Machine grade polycarbonate exhibits superior impact strength and rigidity over a wide range of service temperatures and is often used for structural applications where transparency and impact strength are essential. Machine grade polycarbonate is stress relieved, making it ideal for close tolerance machined parts.
Clear, standard, and custom colors are available in coated or laminated stock.
A large number of end-use applications, i.e., special grades that provide specific properties or processing characteristics (weatherability, abrasion/ scratch resistance, heat/flame retardance, UV stability, and static dissipation) for polycarbonate are possible by tailoring grades with specific molecular properties and additives during its manufacture. Contact an Emco Industrial Plastics representative who can help you choose the correct material to meet the needs of your applications.
Emco Industrial Plastics doesn’t claim to represent all of the manufacturers or trade name products listed. This list is intended as a guide of typical materials available for purchase from Emco Industrial Plastics, Inc. For additional information, contact an Emco Industrial Plastics representative by filling out the form below.
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Polycarbonate, Machine Grade
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| Type | Size | Length | Color |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sheet | 1/4″ – 6″ TH | 2′, 4′, x 2′, 4′; CTS | Natural, Black |
| Rod | 1/32″ – 15″ DIA | Standard lengths; CTS | Natural, Black |
| Tube | 1/4″ – 7-3/4″ ID | Standard 8′; CTS | Clear |
Give us your cut-to-size dimensions. We will precision-cut these plastics to your exact size. Additional sizes and colors available upon request.
| Physical Properties | Units | ASTM | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | lb/in³ | D792 | 0.043 |
| Water Absorption, 24 hrs | % | D570 | 0.012 – 0.150 |
| Mechanical Properties | Units | ASTM | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | psi | D638 | 9,500 – 10,000 |
| Tensile Modulus | psi | D638 | 320000 |
| Tensile Elongation @ Break | % | D638 | 135.0 |
| Flexural Strength @ yield | psi | ASTM D790 | 14,100 |
| Flexural Modulus | psi | ASTM D790 | 339,000 |
| Compressive Strength | psi | D695 | 12000 |
| Compressive Modulus | psi | D695 | 240,000 – 345,000 |
| Hardness, Rockwell R | D785 | 118 | |
| IZOD Impact Strength Notched @ 73° | ft-lb/in | D256 | 17 |
| IZOD Impact Strength Un-notched | ft-lb/in | D256 | 60.0 |
| Thermal Properties | Units | ASTM | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion | (x 10-5 in./in./°F) | D256 | 3.9 |
| Heat Deflection Temp @ 66 psi | °F | D648 | 270 |
| Heat Deflection Temp at 264 psi | °F | D648 | 280 |
| Max Operating Temp | °F | 250 | |
| Thermal Conductivity | BTU-in/ft²-hr-°F | C177 | 1.3 |
| Flammability Rating | UL94 | H-B/V-O | |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | in/in/°F | E831 | 3.44x10₋₅ |
| Electrical Properties | Units | ASTM | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dielectric Strength 1/8″ th. | V/mil | D149 | 390 – 965 |
| Dielectric Constant | D150 | 3.17 | |
| Dissipation Factor @ 60 Hz | D150 | 0.0009 |
| Optical Properties | Units | ASTM | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haze, initial | % | D1003 | 0.01 |
NOTE: The property values presented above are typical values intended for reference and comparison purposes only. They should NOT be used as a basis for design specifications or quality control. Contact us for manufacturers’ complete material property datasheets. All values at 73°F (23°C) unless otherwise noted.
NOTE: Several grades of this material are available. For additional information regarding this plastic, contact your Emco Industrial Plastics representative or call 973-862-4148.
