What is polycarbonate: features, specifications and specifics of choosing the right material. What is cellular polycarbonate Polycarbonate what kind of material

Polycarbonate is a modern material that perfectly replaces glass, while not inferior to it in many properties.

Polycarbonate is a polymer, which, due to its characteristics, is defined as a synthetic low-combustible material. If we compare this material with acrylic and glass, it turns out that polycarbonate is much more durable (100 times compared to glass and 10 times to acrylic). Wide and temperature range of application, in which the properties of the material remain unchanged - from -40°C to +120°C.

Produced from special raw materials - polycarbonate granules. Slabs of one or another type of polycarbonate are smelted by special processing. Due to its properties, polycarbonate is used quite widely in construction, aircraft construction, medicine, the production of household appliances and electronics, where it is necessary to create a lightweight but durable case.

There are two types of polycarbonate:

• monolithic;
• cellular.

Monolithic polycarbonate is a single plate that looks like glass in appearance. However, polycarbonate is 100 times stronger than glass, 2 times lighter and transmits more light (up to 90%).

Panel thickness can be 0.75-40mm. Often there is a multilayer monolithic polycarbonate. The color scheme and texture of the layers may be different. In addition, different layers are often given different properties: for example, one is durable, the second does not transmit light, and the third has a matte surface. Monolithic polycarbonate with two layers that do not transmit ultraviolet has become widespread.

In the construction industry, horizontal structures are erected from. At the same time, it is not necessary that they have a strict rectangular shape - it can also be a rounded overlap.

Rounded monolithic polycarbonate

The roundness of the shape is achieved by using hot forming technology. For the technology, special domes with a radius of 4-5 m with a rectangular floor are used. To control the thickness of the manufactured monolithic polycarbonate, powerful lights are used, carried out along the entire inner area of ​​the dome.

The dome with raw materials is immersed in the furnace, where the temperature is gradually increased and air circulates. The sheet heated to a certain temperature is stamped. The impact resistance of stamped polycarbonate is very high due to the fact that during the stamping process, the parts are reinforced with special ribs. The need to insert metal stiffeners is eliminated, thereby maintaining the light weight of the structure.

Another option is wave profiled polycarbonate.

Cellular polycarbonate

Structurally, these are two (or more) layers of plates, between which there are longitudinal jumpers - stiffeners.

Cellular polycarbonate is also called cellular or structured. However, the name "cellular polycarbonate" has firmly entrenched in the construction industry. Cellular polycarbonate is used to create roofs, awnings, ventilation lights on the roofs of industrial buildings and premises.

Important! Cellular polycarbonate is produced by forcing granules heated to a molten state through a forming part, which determines the shape and dimensions of the future sheet.

The advantages of cellular polycarbonate, which determine the scope of its application, include the following:

• low weight (1 m2 of a sheet weighs from 1500 to 3500 g, which is 6 times less than glass);
• low thermal conductivity;
• high sound insulation performance (2 times higher than that of glass);
• great impact resistance;
• high bearing capacity;
• high light transmission (up to 85% - also more than glass);
• flexibility;
• resistance to many aggressive chemicals, etc.

Important! Polycarbonate has a negative property, which should be taken into account even in the process of designing a building - when exposed to high temperatures, the material begins to increase in volume, which can damage horizontal ceilings with a large area or load-bearing structures.

Also, polycarbonate, like glass, does not tolerate mechanical stress. For successful installation of floors, it is customary either not to remove the protective film, or to treat the surface with special compounds.

Prices for cellular polycarbonate

cellular polycarbonate

Cellular polycarbonate in agriculture

Cellular polycarbonate is widely used in the agricultural sector. Here, impact resistance, the ability of the material to diffuse direct sunlight, long wear life and thermal insulation properties are highly valued. In addition, cellular polycarbonate transmits only part of the ultraviolet rays, which are quite enough for the normal life of plants. Due to these properties, cellular polycarbonate is actively used for the construction of greenhouses and greenhouses, not only on an industrial scale, but also for private purposes.

For the construction of greenhouses and greenhouses, sheets of cellular polycarbonate 8 mm thick are usually used. It is this thickness that is considered the golden mean - the combination of cost and technical characteristics is the most successful. Many manufacturers specially produce 8 mm cellular polycarbonate with a coating that does not allow water to linger on the inner surface, which improves the light transmission of the finished greenhouse.

Table. The main characteristics of cellular polycarbonate 4 mm thick of popular brands.

Monolithic and cellular polycarbonate - what is common?

Both types of polycarbonate have common properties, including:

• excellent light transmission;
• ease;
• shock resistance;
• low thermal conductivity.

Both varieties are often used to build transparent ceilings of the most complex forms in both private and commercial construction. Most often, polycarbonate floors can be found in the design of transitions, gyms, museums, workshops and shopping centers.

According to the standard, polycarbonate sheets of different thicknesses are produced - 4 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 16 mm, 20 mm and 25 mm. On the domestic market, sheets with a thickness of 32 are sometimes found. One sheet, as a rule, has dimensions of 2100 * 6000 mm or 2100 * 12000 mm.

For construction, polycarbonate 8-10 mm is usually used, and when heat saving is necessary - over 20 mm thick.

Polycarbonate in private construction

Polycarbonate has become available to the general public recently and immediately gained popularity. Its relative cheapness and excellent properties found a consumer response, and the material began to be used in all spheres of life, including in private construction.

Recently, the construction of polycarbonate fences has gained wide popularity. The ability to create unusually shaped fences, good noise isolation and ease of installation have made polycarbonate one of the most favorite materials among designers and architects.

An important role in universal recognition is played by the fact that polycarbonate can be translucent and matte, in different colors and shapes. Great scope for imagination and the ability to create a custom design.

Polycarbonate is easy to clean, making it easy to care for the fence. To care for a polycarbonate fence, water and cotton fabric are enough. As an additional washing agent, you can use any agent that does not contain ammonia. Soundproofing properties are also a big plus for such a fence.

Garage buildings made of polycarbonate

Two designers - Tapio Spelman and Christian Grau - asked themselves how to create an unusual and practical garage for premium cars that looks modern, while the car is visible and safe at the same time. The solution came almost immediately: they developed a garage with transparent walls made of polycarbonate with the addition of liquid crystals that can hide the car from prying eyes. When implementing this project, the output is a beautiful building that perfectly fulfills its functions and pleases the eye.

Greenhouses, greenhouses and winter gardens made of polycarbonate

The fashion for using film for the greenhouse device is gradually disappearing. The film, in comparison with polycarbonate, is unprofitable and impractical - even if its integrity is not violated, then after 2-3 years they will inevitably self-destruct under the influence of sunlight. In addition, the film must be removed for the winter season and reinstalled in the spring, which provides additional problems. All of the above in tandem with unaesthetic make this material completely uncomfortable and problematic.

Much easier and easier to arrange. Many companies supply ready-made structures with a galvanized frame, which only need to be assembled.

Advantages of a polycarbonate greenhouse:

• long service life of floors (up to 25 years);
• long service life of the galvanized frame (up to 25 years);
• no need to put a foundation - the frame holds perfectly on any surface;
• design mobility - a greenhouse or greenhouse can be moved to another place;
• ease of assembly / disassembly;
• extension of the harvest time due to the optimal climate;
• possibility to equip a winter garden;
• the assembled greenhouse takes up little space;
• The greenhouse kit includes all the necessary fasteners that securely fix the structure in the assembled state.

Unlike greenhouses made of other materials, polycarbonate structures provide an even distribution of light rays throughout the plants. For example, if the greenhouse is covered with glass, the ultraviolet rays, without being reflected, fall only on the tops of the plants, while the lower part remains in the shade. Under such conditions, plants often fall ill and die.

Polycarbonate provides an optimal microclimate for efficient plant growth. In addition, galvanized iron, from which the frame is made, is durable and has no material value in the eyes of criminals.

Important! For lovers of aesthetics and landscape design, polycarbonate will be a real gift - the ability of cellular polycarbonate to take on the most complex shapes allows you to build structures of any kind.

A polycarbonate greenhouse holds heat much better. If you have a heated greenhouse or conservatory, you can save about 30% of the fuel you use per year.

It might be helpful

Below are some useful information and applications of polycarbonate.

Not so long ago, when during construction it became necessary to install a roof with light-penetrating abilities, there were almost no alternatives to ordinary glass. But time passed, and developers discovered sheet polycarbonate, which blew up the market. Now it is popular and surrounds us everywhere.

What is polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is a material with high light transmission, which reaches 90%. The material has a low weight, it is several times stronger than glass, because the hammer is not afraid of it. It is preferred today by summer residents for the construction of greenhouses. Such structures are not able to spoil the hurricane and hail.

Polycarbonate consists of a viscous polymer, which makes it almost unbreakable. The cost of supporting structures is reduced due to the minimum specific weight and the lightness of the material used. The panels can withstand strong winds and snow loads, which is important, for example, when building greenhouses.

The material has excellent heat resistance, unaffected by the environment. Energy costs for heating greenhouses can be reduced due to the low thermal conductivity of polycarbonate. It also has soundproofing properties.

Dimensions

Polycarbonate is a material that comes in two versions. Each variety has some differences. Sheets in a monolithic format, depending on the predicted operating conditions and intended purpose, can have a thickness ranging from 2 to 12 mm. On sale you can find solid polycarbonate, which has anti-vandal functions.

The standard sheet dimensions are 2.05x3.05 m. Cellular, or, as it is also called, cellular polycarbonate, has not such super strength as a monolithic sheet. It is used in other areas. Due to the cellular structure, the thickness of the sheet as a whole is greater. The standard thickness varies from 4 to 32 mm.

Cellular polycarbonate is a material that is sold in standard sizes: 2.1x6 or 2.1x12 m. If you need to purchase colored polycarbonate, you can buy it by voicing the footage to the seller. The length can be 9 m, while the minimum value is 1 m. The smallest width is 2.1 m. Sections larger than 9 m are not sold, you can only purchase 12-m blanks in finished form.

Polycarbonate is a material that can be found on the market in another variety - profiled. It is not as popular as the two described above, but also has its own purpose, which determines the standard sizes. The thickness of the sheet is not more than 1.2 m, but the profiled structure also requires a sheet height indicator. It can reach 5 cm. The width according to the standard is equivalent to 1.26 m, while the length reaches 2.24 m.

Application area

The above material combines several advantages at once, among which it is worth highlighting:

• accessible;
• price;
• aesthetic appearance;
• ease of processing;
• durability;
• popularity in various fields of human activity.

Polycarbonate is widely used in construction, aircraft manufacturing and the military-industrial complex. It has found its distribution in the food industry, shipbuilding and advertising. You can meet polycarbonate in the field of medicine and computer technology, as well as architecture.

Polycarbonate, the photo of which you can see in the article, is used for glazing the facades of buildings for various purposes, they can be household, residential and administrative. As for monolithic sheets, they are used for the manufacture of observation devices and lenses for sights. These canvases are also found in signal lights, as well as aircraft windows. They found themselves in shipbuilding, where they form the basis of portholes that hold back the impacts of waves of any strength.

If polycarbonate, the dimensions of which were mentioned above, is made by injection molding, then it can form the basis of kitchen utensils, it is not afraid of high temperatures and does not break, and can also be exposed to detergents and various aggressive substances.

Monolithic canvases are also protective, so they act as barriers from vandals and the elements. In computer technology, molded polycarbonate is used in the manufacture of hard drives for personal computers. The field of medicine also borrowed this material, which is used to make unbreakable durable dishes. In architecture, this material has also found its application, where it is used for the manufacture of canopies and canopies, stops and pavilions, bulletproof transparent partitions and fences.

Production

The USA and Germany were the first to produce polycarbonate. Today, one of the German firms is the most famous in the production of polycarbonate products. 2000s became the time when this polymer plastic began to be made in Russia. The first stamps were produced on the basis of foreign-made technologies, but then the process changed slightly, it was amended. Additives and additional substances were added to the ingredients of the material. This was done to ensure that the final product would suit the Russian climate.

If you still do not know which polycarbonate to choose, then it may be worth paying attention to the one that is made in China. It has a low cost, but is ready to serve no more than 6 years. If the structure is being built for a short time, then it is unprofitable to purchase expensive canvases. But when the structure should last more than 20 years, it is better to purchase a more expensive analogue, then the money spent will pay off for many years of service and the preservation of the original properties.

The production technology is expressed in the production of aromatic compounds by the synthesis of bisphenol. It is obtained from phenol and acetone. In order to obtain monolithic polycarbonate, engineering amorphous plastic is used. The raw material is polycarbonate granules, which undergo special processing. The manufacturing process is quite time-consuming and complex, it requires special skills and knowledge, as well as equipment. At the first stage, raw materials are prepared, the granules are melted, and then the sheets are formed. Sheets are sent to cool, and then cut into separate sheets.

Greenhouse manufacturing

You can make a greenhouse out of polycarbonate with your own hands. For it, you can build a brick, stone, tape or wooden foundation. If you use timber for this, then you should use a product with a cross section of 50x50 mm. Supports are installed on a flat platform, a beam is attached to them.

Next, you can do the installation of a metal frame. For these purposes, a pipe is used, the dimensions of which are 20x40x2 mm. The distance between the elements of the crate should be minimal, but not more than 50 cm. When making a polycarbonate greenhouse, at the next stage, you can proceed to attaching sheets to the profile using self-tapping screws. For a more attractive look and elimination of micro drafts, sheets can be planted on thermal washers.

sheathing

The sheets must overlap within 8 cm. From above, the seams must be sealed with self-adhesive aluminum tape or one made of galvanized steel. The inner part of the connections is closed with a perforated tape, which will ensure the drainage of condensate and will prevent drafts and dust inside.

You can choose the dimensions of the polycarbonate greenhouse yourself. But if you have a sheet with dimensions of 2100x6000 mm, then you can bend it to get an arch. As a result, the arc will have a radius of 3800 mm. This size matches the height of an industrial greenhouse. The resulting arcs will only have to be joined together. Typically, the length of a polycarbonate greenhouse is 6000 mm. These are three arcs. However, you can design with two arcs or, conversely, choose a design with more arcs. It all depends on personal wishes and the size of the site.

How to avoid mistakes

Summer residents know that in the matter of building a greenhouse or greenhouse, the main enemy of plants is reflection. Curved surfaces form reflections of the sun. The reflected beam of light that did not pass through the surface of the covering material will be reflected from it. A curved surface transmits light rays worse, making efforts to reflect. For a greenhouse, this can be a real disaster.

Solution

Experts do not recommend the use of arched structures when it comes to early growing plants. The surface can be made straight, this will be the best option. In this case, you can make the walls facing the sun transparent. The rest should not pass ultraviolet, they must absorb it. As a result, it will be possible to create additional energy inside the greenhouse, which ensures the normal growth of plants. The north side of the greenhouse should be made of an opaque material.

Conclusion

Cellular polycarbonate has become an excellent solution for construction tasks. It forms the basis of canopies and canopies, as well as roofs and greenhouses. In private construction, it is also used quite often: for the construction of greenhouses, as well as winter gardens.

Polycarbonate is a colorless hard polymeric plastic. In production it is used in the form of granules. It is characterized by lightness, high strength, transparency, plasticity, frost resistance and durability.

Also, this material is a good dielectric. From a chemical point of view, polycarbonates are synthetic polymers.

The special properties of polycarbonate are achieved due to the unique structure of its macromolecules. Since polycarbonate is a thermoplastic (thermoplastic polymer), when it hardens, it is able to restore its properties.

It is worth noting that such material can be subjected to repeated processing, which makes it environmentally attractive. Polycarbonate is made from polycarbonate granules according to the extrusion principle. The applied UV protective layer provides reliable protection from direct sunlight.

Polycarbonate sheets are very popular for the device, due to their unique performance properties, as well as a wide range of applications. The main advantages of polycarbonate include:

• ease;
• transparency;
• simple installation;
• strength;
• flexibility;
• ease of processing;
• resistance to negative effects of the environment and chemical elements;
• sound and heat insulation;
• security.

Polycarbonate is cellular and monolithic. Cellular polycarbonate is widely used in construction, as it is quite light, but at the same time durable material. Sufficient ductility and high impact resistance make it possible to obtain products with thin walls without losing their basic properties.

Monolithic polycarbonate is considered less common. It is a solid plate, which is used when facing various building objects. The products are strong enough to withstand various impacts and eliminate the need to use a metal frame.

Due to their flexibility, polycarbonate sheets are an ideal material for covering even the most geometrically complex structures. Installation of polycarbonate plates is not difficult. Comfortable polycarbonate profiles are used, which have the same color range and mechanical properties. Sheets can be perfectly processed with ordinary cutting tools.

Polycarbonate granules are the main raw material for the manufacture of PC sheet. Sheet resin is widely used in the production of lighting technology, clutch parts, mechanical engineering parts and electrical parts.

Also, the use of polycarbonate cannot be dispensed with in construction, furniture production, the manufacture of weapons, protective equipment and sporting goods, information media, etc. Very often polycarbonate is used as a substitute for glass. Summer residents use such material for equipment and greenhouses.

Polycarbonate has high strength and can be of varying degrees of transparency and different colors. Polycarbonate products are characterized by a high degree of fire safety. During the impact of fire on the polymer, it does not burn, but melts and at the same time, without releasing toxic substances.

It is completely environmentally friendly material. It is created on the basis of salts of carbonic acid, which is unable to harm the environment. When interacting with fire, heavy metal vapors and other harmful substances are not emitted into the air. The safety of the polymer is explained by the fact that it is used in industries such as medicine and the food industry.

Video:

Polycarbonate in construction is a great alternative to glass. It has very high light transmission due to 90% transparency and is also very light. In addition, polycarbonate is several hundred times stronger than glass - it is not afraid of a hammer and bullets. It is he who is preferred by gardeners in the construction of greenhouses, then no hail or hurricane can spoil it.

In addition to the installation of greenhouses, polycarbonate material is used for the construction of shop windows, billboards, in the glazing of buildings, balconies and loggias, in office partitions, as fences in playgrounds or swimming pools, and in other transparent structures. This material is aesthetic and pleasant, so it is also used as a decoration.

Read more about the characteristics and benefits of polycarbonate

Polycarbonate is a transparent polymer plastic that is stored in the form of granules until the very moment of processing. The composition of this substance includes: diatomic phenol, water, carbonic acid, solvents and dyes. At high temperatures, it does not lose its properties, is capable of self-healing, and therefore is environmentally safe.

Important: do not open the factory packaging until the polycarbonate sheets are used, so that condensation does not get in, and you can not tear off the protective film - dust or insects can get in, this will negatively affect the appearance of the sheet.

Two types of polycarbonate are produced - cellular and monolith. They are the same in quality. The only difference is that the structure of cellular polycarbonate is cellular (it is hollow inside, there are only partitions between the cells), and the monolith is solid without empty cells inside.

Specifications:

As already mentioned, this material is most loved when installing greenhouses - it has excellent thermal insulation.

Flame retardant and non-toxic, self-extinguishing properties.

Unrealistically shockproof - used in the construction of fences against vandalism.

Resistant to temperature changes. Not vulnerable to difficult weather conditions.

Important: although the material does not lose its properties when exposed to high temperatures, it can increase in size up to 4mm - this must be taken into account during installation and storage.

Due to the fact that the material is very flexible, it is convenient to make arches and other structures from it, which need to be given an original geometric shape. For this, a honeycomb sheet is more often used.

Does not pass ultraviolet. The material itself is destroyed under the influence of UV, but manufacturers have taken this nuance into account and add a special protective agent to its composition.

In order not to doubt which type of polycarbonate to choose - cellular or monolith, remember that the only difference is that the cellular one has less weight than the monolith, and the cellular one also has slightly higher sound insulation due to the voids in the honeycombs.

By itself, polycarbonate is a very light material, you can work with it without the use of special power equipment. Another important advantage is that the material is safe both in installation and in everyday life. If the glass is accidentally hit, it will break and may injure someone - with polycarbonate, such cases are excluded altogether.

Description of the installation of a polycarbonate greenhouse

Building a greenhouse with your own hands from polycarbonate is much easier than from glass. In addition, the plasticity of the material allows you to give the greenhouse a more interesting shape.

Polycarbonate is not fragile, unlike glass.

It is easily cut with scissors for metal (you can use a saw or a knife).

Flexibility - you can make the roof in the form of an arch. This will help to avoid joints, which cannot be said about the installation of a glass greenhouse.

Important: despite the fact that polycarbonate is flexible enough, you need to follow the measure. Do not exceed the bending radius indicated on the package, this will lead to a violation of the special UV coating.

Foundation and frame of the greenhouse

The first step is to pour the foundation of the greenhouse. If the greenhouse will be located on soft ground, then a strapping should be done, and then a concrete foundation should be poured. You can use brick or stone. This foundation will last for many years.

The frame for the greenhouse can be wooden, profiled or metal. It is better to use metal, because the profiled one is not very durable and can bend under pressure, and the wooden one needs to be painted - it shrinks. An ideal option would be a metal corner or square fittings.

Covering the frame of the greenhouse with polycarbonate sheets

The first step is to tear off the factory film from the sheets. It is better to do this before sheathing, then it will be very inconvenient, and you will have to tinker.

Sheets are fastened to the outer side of the frame, overlapping, using thermal washers and self-tapping screws.

Make sure the side with the UV protection is on the outside.

Cellular polycarbonate can be bent only in the direction of the stiffeners.

You don’t need to tighten the fasteners too much - the sheet should hold tight, but be able to move freely so that there is room to expand when heated.

There is nothing difficult in doing the installation of the greenhouse yourself. You can, of course, purchase a ready-made frame sheathed with polycarbonate, which is then only installed on the foundation, but it will cost a little more. In addition, you can not guess with the size, which will entail unnecessary expenses, although it is up to you - both options have their pros and cons. In the first option, you spend your time and effort, but save money, in the second - on the contrary.

Service life of polycarbonate

If polycarbonate is properly cared for and all precautions are taken during installation, then it can last several decades longer than indicated by the manufacturer.

Polycarbonate Care

On the example of a greenhouse, upon the arrival of spring, polycarbonate must be cleaned of dirt that accumulates over the winter. Due to dirt, the material loses its transparency, and from this it heats up more, which leads to deformation of the sheet. Keep the facility clean.

Polycarbonate is easy to clean. To do this, you can use any dishwashing detergent, if you do not have a special one, and a cotton cloth.

Important: the detergent should not contain ammonia, it destroys the material, and for greasy stains, use ethyl alcohol! Do not rub it with a brush or scraper, only with a cotton cloth! Otherwise, damage the coating that protects against ultraviolet radiation.

In conclusion, a few words about the colors of polycarbonate

Polycarbonate has a rich color range, especially cellular. The cast does not have such a wide variety of colors, because it is used less often than cellular, but there is still a choice.

The main purpose of colored polycarbonate is to give beauty and originality to the appearance of the building. But some experts argue that for the construction of a greenhouse, color matters not only in aesthetic terms. It is believed that the green color is not suitable for greenhouses, because it inhibits the growth of plants, red or orange, on the contrary, contributes. In any case, if you decide to use this material in construction, then you will have where to show your imagination.

Polycarbonate Care

On the example of a greenhouse, upon the arrival of spring, polycarbonate must be cleaned of dirt that accumulates over the winter. Due to dirt, the material loses its transparency, and from this it heats up more, which leads to deformation of the sheet. Keep the facility clean.

Polycarbonateeasy to clean. To do this, you can use any dishwashing detergent, if you do not have a special one, and a cotton cloth.

uImportant : detergent must not contain ammonia, it destroys material and for greasy stains use ethyl alcohol! Do not rub it with a brush or scraper, only with a cotton cloth! Otherwise, damage the coating that protects against ultraviolet radiation.

In conclusion, a few words about the colors of polycarbonate

Polycarbonate has a rich color range, especially cellular. The cast does not have such a wide variety of colors, because it is used less often than cellular, but there is still a choice.

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Since its inception, cellular polycarbonate has made a real revolution in the arrangement of small architectural forms - greenhouses, arbors, sheds, greenhouses. Its favorable price and high technical characteristics make it possible to implement unique construction projects. The cellular material becomes an excellent alternative to glass, as it is not inferior to it in terms of transparency, but is no less than 250 times stronger than glass.

What is cellular polycarbonate?

Modern polycarbonate cellular sheet is a thermoplastic polymer obtained by combining dihydric alcohols and carbonic acid. The raw material for its production is small granules, which are melted and combined into a plastic mass. If necessary, coloring pigments and other substances are added to it to improve the quality of the final product. The prepared mass goes through extrusion processes, that is, it is squeezed out through special forms and acquires the type of flat sheets.

Ready-made cellular polycarbonate, types, characteristics, the use of which is described in this article, is a hollow material. If you look at it in a section, it will look like two or more thin sheets interconnected by partitions (stiffening ribs). This structure resembles a honeycomb, which is why the polymer was called "honeycomb".

Varieties of material

The Polygal Vostok plant produces single-chamber honeycomb sheets with the STANDARD structure:

And multi-chamber sheets with additional stiffeners to enhance strength with the Titan Sky structure:

In addition to the specified classification, manufacturers can use an additional gradation of plastic panels. When manufacturing cellular polycarbonate, the Poligal plant produces Standard, Practical, Hummingbird and Kiwi slabs, which differ in specific gravity and structural features.

GOST standard

Warranty: 15 years

Service life over 20 years

The characteristics of the "Polygal STANDARD" sheet during several decades of careful study and practical use of the material did not develop by chance. Each sheet thickness is designed for a certain load, under it there are norms of support distances for the reliability and stability of the structure.

Technical characteristics of cellular polycarbonate "Standard GOST"

Light transmission of cellular polycarbonate "Standard GOST"

Polygal Practical

Warranty: 14 years

A noteworthy line of products are sheets of a slightly lighter construction, unlike Polygal STANDARD, of high quality. These products are more economical - the specific weight of the sheet is reduced by 15%.

Technical characteristics of cellular polycarbonate "Polygal Practical"

Light transmission of cellular polycarbonate "Polygal Practical"

STANDARD TITAN SKY

Service life over 20 years

Technical characteristics of cellular polycarbonate "Standard Titan Sky"

Light transmission of cellular polycarbonate "Standard Titan Sky"

hummingbird cell

The trademark "Hummingbird" was developed specifically for the Russian market by the specialists of the company "Polygal Vostok".
Hummingbird sheets are an economical option for cellular polycarbonate. The weight of the sheets has been slightly reduced compared to products under the brand name “Polygal PRACTICAL”.

Technical characteristics of cellular polycarbonate "Hummingbird cellular"

Light transmission of cellular polycarbonate "Hummingbird cellular"

kiwi cell

Sheets Cellular polycarbonate "Kiwi" is a super economical product, created specifically for summer residents and amateur gardeners. But also these sheets have proven themselves excellently as a material for advertising and as a material used indoors (partitions, etc.).

Technical characteristics of cellular polycarbonate "Kiwi Cellular"

Scope of cellular polycarbonate

The polymer is most widely used in the construction industry, where it is widely used for the construction of sheds, light buildings and translucent structures. Panels are made from:

• greenhouses, greenhouses, winter gardens;
• canopies over the entrances to buildings;
• covered passages between houses;
• canopies over swimming pools and car parks;
• partitions and transparent walls;
• glazing in gazebos, attics, summer kitchens.

The unique composition of cellular polycarbonate gives it high flexibility, so cellular panels are a good solution for building arched structures. In addition to construction, plastic is widely used in other areas of management. It can be used for soundproof screens along highways, public transport stops, and outdoor advertising.

Specifications

When wondering how to cut cellular polycarbonate, how to cut it and subject it to other processing, it does not hurt to first familiarize yourself with the main properties and technical characteristics of the plates.

Dimensions

Thermoplastic manufacturing technology allows manufacturers to produce polycarbonate panels in various sizes. Their length can vary from 6000 to 12000 m. The width of the cellular polycarbonate sheet for all its varieties is 2100 m, which is due to the peculiarities of the extruders on which the plates are extruded from the plastic mass.

The thickness of the panels is from 4 to 20 mm and more. The thicker the plate, the higher the parameters of its strength and rigidity. These indicators can also be influenced by the number of walls that make up the structure of the plates. Worst of all, five-layer types of material bend, having straight and inclined jumpers.

If we compare cellular polycarbonate, the thickness of the material is in direct proportion to its types. So, 2H plates are most often produced in thicknesses from 2 to 10 mm, and for 3X sheets this parameter is usually 16 mm. Five-layer types of products traditionally have a large thickness - from 20 mm and above.

Mechanical strength

To understand the better to cut cellular polycarbonate, pay attention to its strength indicators. Despite the fact that cellular sheets are not as strong as monolithic sheets, nevertheless, they have increased resistance to shock loads. Unlike glass, the plates retain their integrity under strong impacts, and if they crack, they do not crumble into thousands of small fragments.

The mechanical strength of the material may depend on its structure and brand. In particular, cellular polycarbonate from the manufacturer "Polygal" in the "Standard" version has the following parameters:

• density - 1.19 g / cm³;
• tensile modulus - not less than 20,000 kgf / cm²;
• tensile strength - not less than 600 kgf / cm²;
• relative elongation at break - more than 50%.

Due to their strength, the products can withstand strong wind loads and the action of atmospheric phenomena.

Resistant to humidity and chemicals

If cellular polycarbonate is used for the construction of greenhouses, the characteristics of its chemical resistance must be taken into account first of all. Although the material is inert to many compounds, it is not recommended for use in contact with cement, methanol, insecticide sprays, alkaline or acetic acid sealants. It can also react with esters, PVC and aldehydes.

The panels have the property of not passing or absorbing water, therefore they are indispensable in the construction of roof structures. However, due to its structure, a sheet of cellular polycarbonate is able to collect moisture inside the cells. To exclude these processes, the plates must be mounted using special fasteners and seals. The edge of the sheet must be closed with an adhesive protective tape, which will prevent moisture and condensate from entering the channels.

Light transmission and UV resistance

Sunlight on the surface of the panels can shorten their lifespan. All types of cellular polycarbonate are exposed to the negative effects of UV radiation, the characteristics of which begin to deteriorate significantly - the material loses its transparency, becomes more brittle and collapses after 2–3 years from the start of operation.

A special UV protective layer, which is applied to the sheets during the extrusion process, helps to solve the problem. When applied, the entire surface of the cellular polycarbonate sheet is covered with a stabilizing coating that fuses with the base and does not peel off during use of the material.

It is important to note that the UV protection layer does not affect the light transmission of the thermoplastic. Transparent coated boards can transmit up to 90% of the sun's rays, colored boards - up to 70%. But at the same time, the presence of protection allows you to extend the life of the panels by 10-15 years.

thermal insulation

Due to the air gap, plastic has good thermal conductivity - from 4.1 W / (m² K). In this parameter, sheets with a thickness of more than 16 mm can be compared with double or even triple glazing. It is not surprising that they are especially in demand in the construction of greenhouses and greenhouses. Excellent thermal insulation helps protect flowers and plants from exposure to cold air, providing the necessary conditions for their full development.

The large length and width of cellular polycarbonate make it possible to cover large areas of structures under construction. But keep in mind that when heated, the polymer can expand significantly. For this reason, the laying of panels in the heat is often carried out close to each other, and in the cold season - with a slight indent.

Color spectrum

Polycarbonate plates can be both colorless and colored. Absolutely transparent panels are more suitable for arranging greenhouse facilities, multi-colored ones are relevant for the decorative design of buildings. The choice of the color of cellular polycarbonate depends on the individual preferences of the buyer and the overall design of the building.

Thanks to modern production technologies, the painted material retains its aesthetic characteristics for a long period of time. This is achieved by adding a coloring pigment to the raw material just before extrusion. As a result, the sheet acquires a stable and uniform color, which does not fade under the sun and is not washed off during precipitation.

Material selection

Before you figure out how to cut cellular polycarbonate, it is important to carefully consider the choice of material for the construction of a translucent structure. When it comes to a greenhouse, consider the following points:

• For growing greenery, a low building is sufficient; for cucumbers and tomatoes, the height of the greenhouse should be at least 3 m.
• Taking into account the width of cellular polycarbonate, namely 2100 mm, three 6-meter sheets will be enough for an arched structure measuring 3x4 meters.
• With a greenhouse width of up to 2.5 m, the same number of plates will be required, but they will have to be cut to size.
• If the width of the building is 4 meters, a standard panel of 6 meters will not be enough to place it along the arch. Therefore, you will need to buy plates with a length of 12 m.

Processing Features

Considering how the material can be processed and how to cut cellular polycarbonate at home, it should be noted that the period of their service largely depends on the correct handling of the sheets. Therefore, before cutting or drilling a product, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the instructions and recommendations of the manufacturer.

cutting

Polycarbonate panels are easy to cut with hand tools. To cut a plate up to 10 mm thick, you can use a hacksaw with fine teeth or a knife with a well-sharpened blade. If the question is how to cut cellular polycarbonate of greater thickness, then it is more expedient to give preference to an electric jigsaw, band or circular saw.

When using a hacksaw or a hand saw, the panel should be well fixed on the work table - in order to avoid its vibration during cutting. The protective film on the plates must remain until the cutting is completed. When figuring out how to properly cut cellular polycarbonate, please note that the material, although it has increased strength, is subject to abrasive influences, so when you start sawing a sheet, constantly remove the resulting chips. In conclusion, it is necessary to clean the channels of the plate and glue its edges with adhesive tape to prevent dust and moisture from entering the cells.

Drilling and gluing panels

Drilling, as well as cutting cellular polycarbonate at home, does not cause any particular difficulties. The holes can be made with a spatula or twist drill, which does not require coolant. The main thing is that the holes should be located no closer than 30 mm to the edge of the plate, otherwise cracks or breaks may appear on it.

Sometimes drilling and cutting of cellular polycarbonate is accompanied by gluing the panels together or connecting them to other materials - metal, glass, and other types of plastic. For these purposes, it is recommended to use polyurethane adhesive, which will ensure high strength of the resulting seams. You can also use epoxy adhesives (optimal when bonding to metal) or silicone adhesives, which are suitable for bonding to many materials.

If you figure out how to cut cellular polycarbonate, how to glue and drill plates, you can ensure high-quality installation of structures without resorting to the help of specialists. With proper installation, the use of polycarbonate panels will allow you to build a reliable and durable structure that will serve for a long time while maintaining its original characteristics.