Polycarbonate Sheets

Polycarbonates (PC) are a group of thermoplastic polymers containing carbonate groups in their chemical structures.

Polycarbonates used in engineering are strong, tough materials, and some grades are optically transparent and are easily worked, molded, and thermoformed. Because of these properties, polycarbonates find many applications. It is a unique engineering thermoplastic which combines a high level of mechanical, optical and thermal properties. The versatility of this material makes it suitable for many engineering applications. When extruded in multi-wall sheet form, it’s optical and impact properties in particular render this material an ideal Product for a wide range of roofing and glazing applications. Polycarbonate is a durable material with high impact-resistance, stronger and will hold up longer to extreme temperature. It is highly transparent to visible light, with better light transmission than many kinds of glass or FRP. Unlike most thermoplastics, polycarbonate can undergo large plastic deformations without cracking or breaking. As a result, it can be processed and formed at room temperature using sheet metal techniques, such as bending on a press brake. Even for sharp angle bends with a tight radius, heating may not be necessary. Multiwall polycarbonate is an extruded multi-wall polymer product, which is significantly lighter than glass, while managing to be stronger, more flexible, and more impact resistant. Multiwall polycarbonate is used most commonly for green houses, where it can support itself in a structurally sound configuration, limit the amount of UV light due to its nominal translucence, and can withstand the rigors of daily abuse in an outdoor environment. The stagnant air in the cellular space between sheets provides insulation, and additional cell layers can be extruded to enhance insulative properties at the cost of light transmission.

Application of Polycarbonate Sheet (Solid / Multiwall)

  • Industrial Roof and side walls
  • Green House
  • Stadium, Malls and Domes
  • Commercial Buildings
  • Swimming pool (pool cover and pool shed)
  • Walkways and Portico covering
  • Parking Areas, skywalks and subways
  • Railway Platform, Bus Shelters and Airport
  • Doors and Windows….. and many more

Multiwall Polycarbonate exhibits high degree of durability and toughness. Although single layer polycarbonate sheeting is more flexible than Multiwall configuration, it still retains significant advantages over alternative materials, including glass. A typical 6mm sheet has a density of 0.120 g/cm^2 and a thermal insulation R value of 1.77, while allowing 80% of visible light pass through. Standard Sheets of Multiwall manufactured in various colors and degrees of transparency, designed for use in most conventional roofing and glazing applications. Standard sheets are manufactured with different thicknesses, ranging from 4mm to 16mm.

Installation Instructions of Multiwall

  • Install the sheets with the ribs parallel to rain flow and with a slope of at least 10º (1:12 pitch). In wall and gable application, always ensure that the ribs are positioned vertically.
  • Supporting beams must be at least 30 mm (1.2”) wide to ensure good anchorage of sheets and fastening accessories.
  • In case of arched structure, check the smallest permissible cold bending radius (R) according to the sheets thickness.
  • Ensure that a qualified professional checks and approves the structure before execution.
  • Complete all the metalwork and painting before beginning sheet installation work.
  • Remove the grey protective film.
  • Fold back the printed sheet protection film 4” (inches) on each side.
  • Attach Perforated Edge Tape to the upper and lower edges of the sheet.
  • Use an Aluminum or Polycarbonate Edge Profiles to protect the lower edge of the sheets. For the upper edges protection also a Polycarbonate Edge Profiles can be used.
  • Attach the edge profile to the sheet with the short side on top of the sheet.
  • Place the sheets with the side protected by the printed film upwards
  • Slide the base connecting profile underneath the sheet flank and use self drilling screws to anchor them to the structure
  • Position the connecting profile cap in place. For a Polycarbonate Connection Profiles with a shock-absorbing support under the sheet, use a rubber mallet to connect it to the base. For Aluminum Glazing Systems, anchor the Cap Profile to the Base Profile with applicable screws
  • Continue to add sheets, and profiles until reaching the end of the building. After completing installation, remove all the protective film from the sheets as soon as possible. Finish and Fixing Reinforcements.
  • Place fixing screws with fixing gaskets only in the support frame lines
  • Do not over-tighten screws