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Frequently asked questions

Here you will find answers to common questions about selecting, ordering, manufacturing, installing, and maintaining polycarbonate. Because the right solution depends on the structure and actual conditions of use, we always assess non-standard projects individually.

Detail of a polycarbonate production line

Choosing a product

What is the difference between multiwall and solid polycarbonate?

Multiwall polycarbonate has internal channels, making it lighter and better at thermal insulation. Solid polycarbonate is a continuous sheet with glass-like clarity and is chosen where high impact resistance, safety, clear visibility, or better acoustic properties matter. The correct type depends on the application.

How should I choose the right type of polycarbonate?

Consider where it will be used, expected loads, required light transmission and thermal insulation, UV protection, surface resistance, and the installation method. Send us the project information and we can help identify the most suitable solution.

How should I choose sheet thickness?

There is no universal thickness. It depends on sheet dimensions, support spacing, span, wind and snow loads, impact risk, bending, and fastening. For structural applications, thickness must be selected from engineering calculations and the specific product data.

Is polycarbonate suitable for outdoor use?

Yes, but outdoor applications require a sheet with UV protection. This helps preserve optical and mechanical properties under sunlight. Sheets intended only for indoor use are not recommended outdoors.

Which side of the sheet should face the sun?

The UV-protected side is normally marked on the protective film and must face the sun. If both sides have UV protection, orientation is not critical, but always follow the marking and instructions for the specific product.

How much light does polycarbonate transmit?

Light transmission depends on sheet type, structure, thickness, colour, and surface. Clear solid polycarbonate may transmit about 88–90% of natural light; multiwall, tinted, and opal sheets transmit less. Refer to the product data sheet for exact values.

Does polycarbonate yellow over time?

UV radiation can affect unprotected polycarbonate, so outdoor sheets use an integrated UV-protective layer. It substantially reduces changes in colour and optical properties. Actual service life depends on the product, environment, installation, and maintenance.

Does polycarbonate meet fire-safety requirements?

The fire classification depends on the specific sheet type, thickness, colour, and composition. State any project-specific requirements before ordering so the right product and supporting documents can be supplied.

Ordering and production

Can I order sheets in non-standard dimensions?

Yes. Sheet dimensions and production tolerances can be agreed for the project. Availability depends on the selected product, production-line parameters, and order quantity.

Can you cut sheets to specified dimensions?

Yes. Precise cutting to agreed dimensions is available. Required tolerances and the cutting layout must be approved before production or preparation begins.

Can I order a custom colour, UV protection on both sides, or custom marking?

These options depend on product type, process parameters, and minimum order quantity. Custom colours, two-sided UV protection, special films, and marking are assessed individually against the technical brief.

What information is needed for a quotation?

Specify the polycarbonate type, application, thickness, sheet dimensions, quantity, colour, UV-protection requirement, conditions of use, delivery location, and preferred date. If some parameters are unclear, send drawings or a short project description.

What is the minimum order quantity?

The minimum depends on the product, standard or custom parameters, and the current production plan. It is confirmed in the specific quotation.

What is the production lead time?

Lead time depends on quantity, product type, custom parameters, and the production schedule. The final date is confirmed after the technical specification and order terms are agreed.

Can I receive samples and technical documents?

Samples, technical data sheets, conformity documents, and warranty terms are supplied according to the specific product and project.

Do you arrange delivery?

The delivery method, location, packaging, and timing are agreed with the commercial offer. Transport is selected for the sheet format, quantity, and destination.

Installation and processing

Can polycarbonate be cut, drilled, and bent?

Yes. Solid polycarbonate can be cut, drilled, routed, cold-bent, and thermoformed. Multiwall sheets can also be cut and bent within their permitted radius. Use sharp suitable tools, support the sheet securely, and follow the product instructions.

How much allowance is needed for thermal expansion?

Polycarbonate expands more than glass or metal, so holes, profiles, and gaps must allow free movement. The indicative linear-expansion coefficient is about 0.065 mm/m °C; over a 45 °C difference, a dimension can change by roughly 3 mm per metre. Calculate the exact allowance from sheet size and temperature range.

Can I walk on polycarbonate sheets?

Do not walk directly on the sheets. During installation and maintenance, use boards, platforms, or other load-distributing equipment supported by the load-bearing structure.

How should the channels in multiwall polycarbonate be oriented?

On roofs, channels run in the direction of the slope; in vertical applications, they run vertically. This lets condensation drain. Avoid horizontal channels where they prevent moisture from escaping.

How should the ends of multiwall sheets be closed?

Upper channel ends are normally sealed with closed tape; lower ends use breathable anti-dust tape that lets condensation escape. Protect the edges with a suitable U-profile. The exact detail depends on the structure and product instructions.

Which fasteners and sealants can be used?

Use only polycarbonate-compatible profiles, EPDM gaskets, washers, and sealants. Do not overtighten screws; fixing points must distribute pressure and accommodate thermal expansion. Avoid materials whose plasticisers or solvents may damage polycarbonate.

When should the protective film be removed?

Keep the film during cutting, transport, and installation. Remove it immediately after installation. Prolonged exposure to sun or heat can bond it strongly to the sheet and make removal difficult.

Storage, maintenance, and warranty

How should polycarbonate sheets be stored?

Store sheets horizontally on a flat base in a dry, shaded, well-ventilated place. Protect them from direct sunlight, precipitation, heat sources, and mechanical damage. Outdoors, use an opaque moisture-resistant cover while maintaining air circulation.

How should a polycarbonate surface be cleaned?

Use lukewarm water, a mild neutral detergent, and a soft cloth or sponge, then rinse with clean water. Do not use abrasives, brushes, sharp scrapers, strongly alkaline cleaners, or untested solvents.

How can label, adhesive, or grease residue be removed?

Carefully wipe it with a soft cloth lightly moistened with isopropanol, then wash with mild detergent and water. Test the method first in an inconspicuous area. Never use blades or metal scrapers.

Can scratches be removed?

Deep scratches usually cannot be removed completely. Light surface damage may sometimes be reduced by professional polishing, but the method must first be tested on a sample. Use specially coated sheets where scratching or vandalism risk is high.

What warranty applies to polycarbonate sheets?

Warranty term and scope depend on product type, UV protection, application, and installation conditions. It is valid only when storage, processing, and installation instructions are followed. Exact terms accompany the specific product documents.

Can polycarbonate be recycled?

Yes. Polycarbonate is a recyclable thermoplastic. Production offcuts can be sorted and returned to the production cycle or sent for recycling; at end of life, sheets are handled according to local collection and recycling options.

Could not find the answer?

Send us your project information. We will assess the technical requirements and help select a solution for the actual conditions of use.

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