Polycarbonate and acrylic are the widely chosen substitutes of glass in a wide range of industrial, commercial, and residential applications. Both materials can be formed to varied shapes and sizes through the process of injection molding for several optical applications. However, most of the users find it difficult to make a choice between the two, owing to the similarities in their appearance. Although both these injection molding materials share a few similarities, they differ with respect to another in several aspects. Hence, to make the right choice between the two, we must know the key differences as well. This post aims to compare polycarbonate and acrylic material and thus to make you better understand the differences.
Comparison: Acrylic vs. Polycarbonate
Strength:
- Both are much stronger than glass, providing greater impact resistance.
- Acrylic has 10 times the impact resistance of glass, while polycarbonate has 250 times.
Durability:
- Both are weather-resistant and don’t experience long-term shrinkage.
- Acrylic is more likely to chip but doesn’t scratch easily or yellow over time.
- Polycarbonate is less likely to crack under stress and is less flammable.
Properties of Acrylic Plastic:
- Affordable compared to glass and polycarbonate.
- 17 times more impact-resistant than glass.
- 92% light transmittance for excellent clarity.
- Doesn’t yellow or discolor in sunlight.
- Thermoplastic with a continuous working temperature of 180°F.
- Resistant to scratches and dents.
- Can be polished smooth.
- Easy to cut and heat bent.
- Clean glue joints.
- Shiny surface.
- Available in a variety of colors, widths, and lengths.
Polycarbonate Plastic
Polycarbonate, known as Lexan or Makrolon, is another plastic type. It can cost around 35% more than acrylic.
Qualities of Polycarbonate Plastic:
- 250 times more impact-resistant than glass and 30 times stronger than acrylic.
- Bullet-resistant grades available.
- 88% light transmittance.
- Available in flexible grades.
- Thermoplastic with a continuous working temperature of 240°F.
- Low flammability.
- Durable against chips and cracks.
- Highly resistant to acids and chemicals.
- Can be drilled without cracking.
- Cold-formed or bent without heating.
- Available in various widths and lengths.
Applications:
Acrylic:
- Furniture
- Signage
- Accent Walls
- Point-of-purchase displays
- Outdoor Signs
- Diffusers and light pipes for LEDs
- Residential and commercial aquariums
- Animal and reptile enclosures
- Spectator protection for ice hockey rinks
- Police vehicles for riot control
- Medical technologies and implants
- UV Filtering & Transmitting
Polycarbonate:
- Football and hockey helmet visors
- Reusable drinking bottles
- Data Storage
- Construction materials
- Electronic Components
- Windshields
- Flame Retardant
Applications and Uses Comparison:
- Both can replace glass in various situations due to their higher impact resistance.
- Acrylic is less expensive and has a glossier finish, suitable for everyday use.
- Polycarbonate is pricier but offers higher impact and chemical resistance, more suited to industrial applications.
Conclusion
In the above-mentioned comparison, you would be able to make a better decision between the two materials for applications across varied sectors. Now, you should know about a manufacturer who is expertise in creating high quality, application specific plastic products and components from these injection molding materials for various industrial segments. The manufacturer you choose must also possess ample knowledge in working with these materials. Considering these requirements, it is wise to partner with Veejay Plastic. The company is committed to offering fast service, on-time delivery and high-quality custom injection molded parts from polycarbonate and acrylic material.
Contact
Would you like to know more about the acrylic or polycarbonate injection molding services? If yes, then do visit our website to know more about our product offering, and get in touch with our highly-skilled team of experts to solve your queries. We are committed to delivering high-quality products at competitive prices in the shortest turnaround times. Our vast injection molding research investments and experience over the years have helped us in many ways to stay true to this commitment. To know more about acrylic resins and acrylic plastics, get in touch with us on our toll-free number 847-683-2954, or email us at [email protected].
