Polycarbonate (PC)
CNC Machining Service

Experience the precision and durability of our Polycarbonate (PC) CNC Machining Service. Get custom polycarbonate parts that meet the highest standards of quality and performance, perfect for a wide range of industries.

Order Your Parts
pc cnc machining
what is pc cnc machining

Polycarbonate (PC) in CNC Machining

Polycarbonate (PC) is an engineering plastic known for its high impact resistance, transparency, and excellent mechanical properties. These unique attributes make polycarbonate an ideal material for CNC machining, particularly in applications requiring durable and lightweight components. Manufacturing of polycarbonate involves using computer-controlled tools to precisely shape and form polycarbonate plastic blocks into desired components. Whether it’s for the automotive, aerospace, electronics, or medical industries, polycarbonate’s adaptability ensures it meets the diverse needs of various sectors.

Price:$$
Available PC at RapidDirect:PC Black, PC Transparent, PC White, PC Yellowish White, PC+GF30 Black
Lead Time:About 6 days
Wall Thickness:Minimum of 0.8 mm
Tolerances:±0.005″ (±0.125mm)
Max Part Size:1200 x 500 x 150 mm
Applications:Enclosures, housings, prototypes, and functional parts

Machined PC Properties

Known for its robustness and transparency, Polycarbonate (PC) is a top-tier material in CNC machining. Its ability to withstand impact while maintaining clarity makes it perfect for a variety of demanding applications. Discover what makes PC a standout material in the machining industry.

Tensile Strength, Yield (MPa)Elongation at Break (%)Hardness (Shore D)Heat Deflection Temperature (°C)Glass Transition Temperature (°C)
60 - 70 100 - 15075 - 80140 - 150147
pc cnc part 1
pc cnc part 2
pc cnc part 3
pc cnc part 4

Surface Finishing Options for Machined Polycarbonate Parts

At RapidDirect, we offer expert surface finishing services to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your custom CNC machined polycarbonate parts. Our range of finishing options ensures your parts not only perform well but also look impeccable.

As Machined  
Polycarbonate parts can be left with their as-machined finish, which typically has a smooth surface directly resulting from the machining process.
Sand Blasting
This can be used to create a matte or textured finish on polycarbonate surfaces.
Tumbling
Tumbling can smooth out the edges and provide a polished appearance to polycarbonate parts.
Painting
Painting is often used for polycarbonate to enhance appearance or add color. Special paints designed for plastic should be used to ensure adhesion and durability.
Brushed Finish
Brushing can give a unique texture to the polycarbonate surface, often resulting in a sleek, lined pattern.
Painting

Pros and Cons of
Polycarbonate (PC) CNC Machining

Polycarbonate (PC) is a highly favored material in CNC machining due to its excellent balance of physical properties and machinability. However, like any material, it has its advantages and limitations.

Pros

  • High Impact Resistance: It is renowned for its toughness and ability to withstand significant impact without cracking or breaking, making it ideal for safety-related applications.
  • Transparency: Its optical clarity allows for the creation of transparent components that are suitable for lenses, screens, and other applications requiring clear visibility.
  • Lightweight: Polycarbonate parts are lightweight yet strong, reducing overall weight in assemblies without sacrificing durability.
  • Good Dimensional Stability: The material maintains its shape and size under varying environmental conditions, ensuring consistent performance.
  • Heat Resistance: It can withstand high temperatures without deformation, making it suitable for parts exposed to elevated temperatures.
  • Ease of Machining: Polycarbonate is easy to machine, allowing for precise and intricate designs to be fabricated efficiently.

Cons

  • Susceptibility to Scratching: PC parts can scratch easily, which may affect their appearance and optical properties if not properly finished or coated.
  • UV Sensitivity: Prolonged exposure to UV light can cause yellowing and degradation, necessitating UV-stabilized grades or protective coatings.
  • Chemical Sensitivity: Certain chemicals can cause PC to crack or degrade, limiting its use in environments where it might be exposed to harsh substances.

CNC Machining Resources

cnc milling cost guide cover
CNC Machining

CNC Milling Cost: Simple vs. Complex Parts Price Comparison

Estimating CNC milling cost is not about waiting for quotes—it comes down to a few controllable variables: material, machining time,...
April 16, 2026
Read More
how to reduce cnc machining cost
CNC Machining

CNC Machining Cost Audit: 2026 Pricing & Saving Guide

In the highly competitive manufacturing landscape of 2026, supply chain transparency has become the ultimate metric for measuring corporate return on...
April 14, 2026
Read More
what is 5 axis cnc machining
CNC Machining

Best 10 Low-Volume CNC Machining Services Low-Volume Production

Sourcing a reliable partner for low volume CNC machining forces a tough choice between exorbitant domestic pricing and unpredictable overseas...
April 10, 2026
Read More

FAQs

Vapor polishing smooths the surface by exposing it to a vaporized solvent, which melts and reflows the surface layer. This process reduces surface roughness and enhances clarity and gloss, making the parts look polished and transparent.

Yes, polycarbonate is highly suitable for optical components due to its excellent transparency and optical properties. Post-machining finishing techniques like vapor polishing further enhance its clarity, making it ideal for lenses, screens, and other optical applications.

We can machine polycarbonate parts up to 1000mm x 500mm x 500mm. While polycarbonate is highly machinable, extremely intricate designs may require additional considerations to avoid stress and ensure precision. Request a quote now to get a DFM analysis for our online CNC machining service for your polycarbonate project.

Polycarbonate is more impact-resistant and flexible than acrylic. However, acrylic offers better scratch resistance and optical clarity. Polycarbonate is preferred for applications requiring toughness, while acrylic is chosen for applications needing superior clarity and aesthetics.

Polycarbonate may begin to turn yellow when exposed to prolonged UV radiation. Using UV-stabilized grades or applying UV-protective coatings can significantly reduce this effect, maintaining the material’s clarity and appearance over time.

Try RapidDirect
now, for free
Start Free Quote
Book a meeting with RapidDirect
Note: Our working hours are 10:00-12:00, 14:00-18:30, and 20:00-23:00. We will confirm the time and meeting method with you via email.
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 50 files.