Polycarbonate panels from Allplastics Engineering are replacing acrylic and glass alternatives in roofing and awning applications to reduce costs and handling hazards.
Allplastics recently supplied its 12mm UV grade unbreakable polycarbonate panels to a builder for use in a stunning awning application at a residence in Wollongong, New South Wales. The polycarbonate panels were CNC routed to the curved shapes designed by the architect to be fixed to steel posts. By choosing polycarbonate over glass, the architect was able to reduce the weight of the supporting structures, resulting in cost savings.
The client, John Fish was very satisfied by the service and advice provided by Allplastics. He explained that the polycarbonate panels allowed them to install the awning without the use of cranes while the material’s resistance to hail and UV rays was an added bonus. He added that the solid clear polycarbonate was a good option in comparison with hollow polycarbonate.
Architects and designers have often used acrylic in the past as a replacement for glass because of its inherent resistance to yellowing over time. But compared to polycarbonate, acrylic is brittle with its impact strength insufficient for demanding, vandal-resistant applications.
Polycarbonate, on the other hand, is an exceptionally tough material 250 times the strength of standard glass. The sheets are suited for outdoor applications with excellent weather-ability and long lifespan assured even in a temperature range of -40°C to +130°C. Polycarbonate also displays superior chemical resistance to solvents and cleaners and offers good electrical insulation.
Allplastics’ UV polycarbonate sheets measure 2440mm x 1220mm and 2440mm x 1830mm with a thickness range of 1-12mm.
The sheets are available in Clear, Opal, Tints and Frost (made to order) options.
Image: Allplastics polycarbonate panels in the awning application
