Engineering plastic
Polycarbonate
PC
A tough, transparent plastic for impact-resistant guards, covers and functional prototypes.
01 · QUICK ANSWER
When should you choose Polycarbonate?
Select machine-grade PC when stable CNC tolerances matter. Use optical grade only when the finish and polishing route have been agreed before machining.
02 · SELECTION DATA
Typical properties at a glance
Screening values only. Final design data must follow the exact grade, condition, stock form and supplier certificate.
Density1.20–1.22 g/cm³
Strength range55–75 MPa tensile yield
TemperatureContinuous use often ≤120°C
MachinabilityGood
03 · ENGINEERING NOTES
Specify what changes the result
A material name alone is not enough. Include grade, condition, finish and documentation on the drawing or purchase specification.
- Machine-grade PC
- Optical-grade PC
- Glass-filled PC
- Flame-retardant PC
- Machine guards
- Transparent covers
- Light pipes
- Impact-resistant housings
- Sensitive to some solvents
- Machining heat can cause stress cracking
- Clear parts need a defined polishing standard
- As machined
- Mechanical polish
- Vapor polish
- Hard coat
04 · MANUFACTURING FIT
Available process routes
CNC machiningCommonly available
Sheet metalCommonly available
3D printingCommonly available
05 · NEXT COMPARISON