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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.
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 - 150 | 75 - 80 | 140 - 150 | 147 |
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.
Polycarbonate parts can be left with their as-machined finish, which typically has a smooth surface directly resulting from the machining process.
This can be used to create a matte or textured finish on polycarbonate surfaces.
Tumbling can smooth out the edges and provide a polished appearance to polycarbonate parts.
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.
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.
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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.
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