LLC "City Style" Nizhny Novgorod. Cellular polycarbonate What gap should be left for thermal expansion

Polycarbonate is a hard, colorless polymer plastic that is used in the form of granules. Due to its heat-insulating properties and impact resistance, this material is widely used in construction. If you decide to use it, you should first find out whether it is necessary to remove the protective film from the polycarbonate.

This material has already become quite widespread and popular not only in the construction market, but also in other areas of human activity. But, before we begin to describe the advantages of the material, it is worth noting that, unfortunately, it is not without its disadvantages. And although there are many more of the former, the latter are also worth considering when choosing material.

Advantages

1. Durability and high fire resistance. This material practically does not burn, and its resistance to mechanical stress is 20 times higher than that of glass;
2. It should also be noted thermal insulation properties material, which are provided due to its structure;
3. Polycarbonate is manufactured in sheets, which are available in a wide range color scheme and are protected with a film that must be removed before use. Buyers can purchase material from standard yellow color, to exclusive colors such as metallic and bronze. If you do not find among the wide assortment color shades suitable, then in this case a colored film will come to the rescue, which can be glued to the glass. True, over time it may peel off or lose its color. It’s better to stick with polycarbonate, because its production uses special dyes that do not change their color over time;
4. Polycarbonate can be compared with metal, since in terms of strength it is not much inferior to it. But, at the same time, compared to metal, this raw material is much lighter, does not corrode and easily takes the required shape.

Flaws

Not without its shortcomings. These include:

1. Capriciousness of the material during processing and fear of scratches. And although the resulting damage is most often not very noticeable and does not create any particular interference during work, this is not a very pleasant quality;
2. The material is afraid of ultraviolet rays, which can lead to its destruction. To prevent this, during the production of raw materials, a special protective film is extruded, which fits tightly to the sheet. The important thing here is to know how to identify the sides of polycarbonate before using it;
3. Another property of the material is its ability to shrink and expand. This should be taken into account when using polycarbonate and when installing structures, provide for a “thermal gap”.

Life time

Service life depends on many factors. Most often, manufacturers provide a ten-year guarantee, which applies to primary material made from high-quality raw materials. But when correct operation this period can be significantly increased. This material is not cheap, but you can choose more cheap option, when polycarbonate is obtained by mixing primary raw materials and secondary ones obtained as a result of processing deteriorated sheets, as shown in the photo. Cheap varieties do not guarantee you a long service life, so when choosing, you need to decide what comes first for you - price or quality, especially if you are going to build a greenhouse.

Sheet bending

During installation, bending of sheets of any type of polycarbonate should be avoided. The only thing that can be allowed in case of emergency is to bend strictly along the line of channels, that is, along the long side of the sheet.

Removing the protective film

All sheets are protected with a special film that protects the material from scratches during loading and unloading, transportation and installation. It is recommended to remove it immediately after installation to prevent it from sticking tightly to the material, which in the future will make the process of removing it quite problematic.

Parties

It is important to determine the faces of the polycarbonate in advance. This is not difficult to do, since it is on them that the protective film is located, as can be seen in the photo. There are several options for fastening the material:

• a transparent film is applied on both sides - the material is completely protected from exposure to ultraviolet rays;
• The film is applied only on one side, and markings are applied on the other. It’s easy to determine which side to lay polycarbonate - to sun rays such a sheet should be directed with the marked side, as can be seen in the photo;
• The markings are applied on both sides - the material is perfectly protected from ultraviolet radiation on both sides.

Let's sum it up

To appreciate all the advantages of polycarbonate, it must be purchased and used in construction work. By listening to our advice, you can be sure that the material will last a long time and will be worth every penny spent on it.

Polycarbonate is a hard, colorless polymer plastic that is used in the form of granules. Due to its heat-insulating properties and impact resistance, this material is widely used in construction. If you decide to use it, you should first find out whether it is necessary to remove the protective film from the polycarbonate.

This material has already become quite widespread and popular not only in the construction market, but also in other areas of human activity. But, before we begin to describe the advantages of the material, it is worth noting that, unfortunately, it is not without its disadvantages. And although there are many more of the former, the latter are also worth considering when choosing material.

Advantages

1. Durability and high fire resistance. This material practically does not burn, and its resistance to mechanical stress is 20 times higher than that of glass;
2. It is impossible not to note the thermal insulation properties of the material, which are ensured due to its structure;
3. Polycarbonate is manufactured in sheets that come in a wide range of colors and are protected with a film that must be removed before use. Buyers can purchase material from the standard yellow color to exclusive colors such as metallic and bronze. If you do not find a suitable one among the wide range of color shades, then in this case a colored film will come to the rescue, which can be glued to the glass. True, over time it may peel off or lose its color. It’s better to stick with polycarbonate, because its production uses special dyes that do not change their color over time;
4. Polycarbonate can be compared with metal, since in terms of strength it is not much inferior to it. But, at the same time, compared to metal, this raw material is much lighter, does not corrode and easily takes the required shape.

Flaws

Not without its shortcomings. These include:

1. Capriciousness of the material during processing and fear of scratches. And although the resulting damage is most often not very noticeable and does not create any particular interference during work, this is not a very pleasant quality;
2. The material is afraid of ultraviolet rays, which can lead to its destruction. To prevent this, during the production of raw materials, a special protective film is extruded, which fits tightly to the sheet. The important thing here is to know how to identify the sides of polycarbonate before using it;
3. Another property of the material is its ability to shrink and expand. This should be taken into account when using polycarbonate and when installing structures, provide for a “thermal gap”.

Life time

Service life depends on many factors. Most often, manufacturers provide a ten-year guarantee, which applies to primary material made from high-quality raw materials. But with proper use, this period can be significantly increased. Such material is not cheap, but you can choose a cheaper option when polycarbonate is obtained by mixing primary raw materials and secondary ones obtained by processing deteriorated sheets, as shown in the photo. Cheap varieties do not guarantee you a long service life, so when choosing, you need to decide what comes first for you - price or quality, especially if you are going to build a greenhouse.

Sheet bending

During installation, bending of sheets of any type of polycarbonate should be avoided. The only thing that can be allowed in case of emergency is to bend strictly along the line of channels, that is, along the long side of the sheet.

Removing the protective film

All sheets are protected with a special film that protects the material from scratches during loading and unloading, transportation and installation. It is recommended to remove it immediately after installation to prevent it from sticking tightly to the material, which in the future will make the process of removing it quite problematic.

It is important to determine the faces of the polycarbonate in advance. This is not difficult to do, since it is on them that the protective film is located, as can be seen in the photo. There are several options for fastening the material:

• a transparent film is applied on both sides - the material is completely protected from exposure to ultraviolet rays;
• The film is applied only on one side, and markings are applied on the other. It is easy to determine which side to lay the polycarbonate - such a sheet should be directed towards the sun's rays with the marked side, as can be seen in the photo;
• The markings are applied on both sides - the material is perfectly protected from ultraviolet radiation on both sides.

Let's sum it up

To appreciate all the advantages of polycarbonate, it must be purchased and used in construction work. By listening to our advice, you can be sure that the material will last a long time and will be worth every penny spent on it.

Do I need to remove the film from polycarbonate?

When purchasing polycarbonate, the buyer often asks the question: is it necessary to remove the film from polycarbonate?

Sometimes we see on summer cottages or even on construction sites in the city, how there is such colorful polycarbonate, covered with a film with drawings of such cute tomatoes. And a person who encounters this plastic for the first time begins to doubt - should he get rid of the film or leave it all, so beautiful with inscriptions, because with it the design seems to be more pleasing to the eye?

The correct answer is that you need to remove the film, otherwise there will be problems.

This is just a shipping film that protects the sheets during transport and storage, so it is worth removing it when you no longer plan to move the sheets. Some summer residents confuse the shipping film with a protective UV layer, which protects the sheet from ultraviolet radiation. The UV layer is invisible and does not come off, you won’t accidentally remove it, so don’t worry about it.

The film coating must be removed from both sides and done immediately before installation. It is important for you to remember or even mark with a marker on which side of the sheet the UV protection is located (this information is on the shipping film you remove) and lay this side outwards, towards the sun.

In fact, this is the most important thing - not to confuse the side with UV protection. In a hurry and in the bustle of the dacha, you just need to get a little distracted and mix up the sides, then you can forget about the long service life of polycarbonate and its warranty.

What happens if you don’t remove the film from polycarbonate? Nothing good will happen, we’ll talk about it below.

Film on the outside of polycarbonate

On the outside of the sheet on the film coating, the brand, manufacturer, warranty, as well as information about UV protection are indicated. That is, it is colored, or even with drawings.

If you do not remove the film from outside polycarbonate, then it will literally stick to the polycarbonate sheet with dark areas of the design and it will be difficult to remove it later, having already become ugly and in tatters. And, moreover, by leaving the outer film on the sheet, you jeopardize the safety of the layer of protection from UV rays - it will stick to it and then come off only with it.

In winter, the film left behind will retain the snow, but without it it would slide off the polycarbonate sheet much more easily.

Film on the inside of the sheet

WITH inside The sheet film is usually completely transparent. It should also be removed to increase the light transmittance of the sheet. Well, if you don’t remove it, then in two years it can ruin the appearance of your nurse or shed.

In general, don't arrange it for yourself unnecessary hassle, feel free to remove the shipping film from the polycarbonate.

Do I need to remove the film from polycarbonate?

Installation instructions

When installing polycarbonate, we usually deal with with three types of designs:

• arched (in this case the sheet bends to a certain radius);
• vertical;
• horizontal.

Arched structures require particularly careful and careful installation. Each sheet thickness has its own minimum bending radius, which should not be exceeded in any case, otherwise when the linear dimensions change under the influence of temperature, the sheet may crack at the fastening points, or burst at the bend.

Horizontal and vertical (as well as inclined) installation is carried out taking into account:

• significant thermal expansion of the polycarbonate sheet;
• the need to install sealing elements;
• the location and nature of protection from ultraviolet radiation (it can be film - one-sided or double-sided - and mass protection created using special additives before extrusion).

Wherever it is necessary to drill a hole for fastener, the area without a protective film (if any) should remain minimal. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that when installing UV protection on one side, the film is located on outer surface leaf.

Polycarbonate sheets are attached to the frame using ordinary self-tapping screws, which are complemented important element– a thermal washer, the internal diameter of which is greater than external diameter self-tapping screw or other fastening element. The washer allows you to compensate for the thermal expansion of the material: by contracting and expanding, it remains securely fixed.

Taking into account the gap between the edges of the sheet and the frame elements limiting it from the sides (if any) is also very important - the gap is left again so that the polycarbonate has room to expand when heated.

Is it possible to bend sheets of cellular polycarbonate?

Bending of cellular polycarbonate panels is allowed only along the channel line, i.e. along the long side of the leaf. The bending radius should be 175 times the thickness of the sheet being bent.

Why cover the ends of polycarbonate?

In order for your polycarbonate to remain clean and transparent, you need to cover the ends of the sheets. The ends are closed as follows: the upper open ends - with a sealing tape and an end profile to prevent the ingress of water, dust and snow, the lower ends - with a special perforated tape that does not interfere with air circulation and an end profile.

Do I need to remove the protective film?

You remove the protective film from the surface of the sheet after installation is completed.

It is necessary to protect sheets during loading and unloading, transportation and installation. If you leave it, then under the influence of the sun after some time it may stick to the leaf, and tearing it off in the future will be problematic.

Which side should the cellular polycarbonate be attached to the sun?

The front side of polycarbonate is determined by the factory protective film on a sheet.

There are several options:

• the film is transparent on both sides - the sheet is evenly protected from ultraviolet radiation throughout the mass;
• the film is transparent on one side, marked on the other side (sheets made in Russia) - with the marked side facing the sun;
• the film is transparent on one side, marked on the other side (brand LEXAN, Austria) – the sheet is protected on both sides;
• The film is marked on both sides - the sheet is protected on both sides.

Is it necessary to remove the protective film from cellular polycarbonate?

When a greenhouse is made from it.

Yes, you need to take it off. This protective film protects polycarbonate from mechanical damage during installation. But we must not forget that cellular polycarbonate has one side protected from ultraviolet radiation, and the sheets must be mounted with this side outward, otherwise the polycarbonate will collapse over time from ultraviolet radiation. Typically, the side with UV protection is covered with a blue film, and the side without protection is covered with white film.

The installation protective film must be removed, otherwise it will be very, very difficult to remove it later, but this should only be done after delivery and installation, there is no need to remove it before.

Initially, this protective film was applied only to protect against scratches during loading and transportation.

Protective film on cellular polycarbonate is intended to protect it during transportation. After installation, this film will need to be removed.

Otherwise, it may simply “solder” to the surface in the sun and then it will become more difficult to remove it.

There is no need to worry about the polycarbonate itself, of course, if you bought a good one of high quality. Since good cellular polycarbonate has protective layer from UV radiation (front side), which protects the polycarbonate itself from fading, drying out, yellowing and cracking.

Is it necessary to remove the protective film from cellular polycarbonate?

Lesnik 61 28-06-2010 12:56

I came across such garbage, covered a greenhouse with it the year before last, now a valuable fur-bearing animal has come to polycarbonate, it crumbles right in my hands, thanks to the recent hurricane, dismantling the dead covering was not necessary.
People here said that you only need to shoot painted film, but with reverse side No, no, this film is placed outside, supposedly protecting against UV radiation.
Who is in the subject, give an explanation on this issue, otherwise if you buy coverage every two years, then with that money it’s easier to buy groceries than to spend half a year screwing around.

Ann 28-06-2010 13:07

I put it on the wrong side. It is necessary to face out with the side on which there was a film with the inscriptions UV-protect and all that.

Lesnik 61 28-06-2010 13:38

TAURUS 28-06-2010 13:51

Ann 28-06-2010 14:03

One side is covered in pictures, the other is blank film.

and without protective coating

Yep 28-06-2010 14:50

quote: Originally posted by TAURUS:

There is cellular polycarbonate with protection from ultraviolet rays and without a protective coating, which affects the service life of the plastic.

koti4 28-06-2010 19:32

what brand? WAS)

koti4 28-06-2010 19:33

it was necessary to jam the ends

ZiminVlVl 28-06-2010 23:37

yes, you just bought bullshit, any polycarbonate is designed for the sun, and for a greenhouse you need it without a protective coating, but the fact that you have it is polyethylene, which really crumbles from the sun within a year

Lesnik 61 29-06-2010 05:15

quote: yes you just bought bullshit

-Bryansk- 29-06-2010 08:45

Indeed, we bought crap. It’s simple - you came across a low-quality product (slipped in), or you took it deliberately, being fooled by a freebie.
Normal, usable polycarbonate will last for decades in severe heat and cold.

Lesnik 61 29-06-2010 09:02

quote: Indeed, we bought crap. Simply - a low-quality product was caught (slipped)

Yep 29-06-2010 09:13

UV protection, Films... Which side to lay it on, caroling around it with a tambourine and organizing other shamanic orgies in the form of plugging the ends - this is heresy and nonsense.

"Signs of poor quality material:

lack of data on mass, bearing capacity, UV protection. UV protection is visible to the naked eye - the side facing the sun has a slight bluish glow on the cut. If this effect is not observed, the presence of co-extrusion UV protection is doubtful; deviations in linear dimensions and sheet thickness;

increased waviness of sheets, longitudinal or transverse grooves visible to the naked eye on the surface of the sheet. They indicate deviations in the extrusion process that may affect the load-bearing capacity of the sheets;

foreign inclusions, black spots, bubbles, roughness. These signs indicate that the material used a large number of recycled materials, which reduces the strength and durability of sheets;

yellowish or bluish tint to transparent panels. This sign indicates that this material belongs to the economy class. (with UV protection in the thickness of the sheet, which is worse than co-extrusion external protection, or with reduced weight) You need to check with the seller for specifics. of this material and the scope of its application.

You should approach the selection of components no less responsibly. Seals must be made of EPDM (not rubber or PVC), washers must be made of metal or PVC (not polyethylene). Profiles must have sufficient width, wall thickness and strength, polycarbonate ones must also have UV protection. Self-tapping screws must be made of high-quality steel, have an anti-corrosion coating and sufficient thickness.

Reducing the number of components (increasing the pitch of the connecting profile and other fasteners) will also negatively affect performance characteristics coverings. Data on the load-bearing capacity of panels reported by the manufacturer are valid only if the recommended support and fastening schemes for polycarbonate are followed."
http://www.krovlirussia.ru/index.php?page=cls&hid=737&pid=43

Yep 29-06-2010 09:32

quote: Originally posted by -Bryansk-:

There was no trace of UV protection

alpar 29-06-2010 09:33

Yep 29-06-2010 09:35

Can polycarbonate withstand a stone throw?

alpar 29-06-2010 09:39

Well, they hardly put thick ones on greenhouses.

Lesnik 61 29-06-2010 09:48

quote: Well, they hardly put thick ones on greenhouses.

quote: holds up if not too thin. and a thick brick can withstand

Yep 29-06-2010 09:55

quote: Originally posted by Forester 61:

replaced it with polycarbonate, the problem went away

Bryansk 29-06-2010 10:12

quote: Originally posted by Yep:

Yes, EVERYTHING was there, they just forgot to tell you.

or the Chinese, and some of them began to skimp on additives and sell cheap bullshit.

But this is really and easily.

That is, in general, it all comes down to the fact that if you buy a good and high-quality one, then whichever side you screw it on, hammer the ends in, don’t hammer it in, it will still last a long time. And a worthless one will fall apart quickly, despite right sides, films and other kosher screws.

Yep 29-06-2010 10:23

quote: Originally posted by Bryansk:

then which side don’t screw it on

I don’t take it off for the winter and I don’t even cover the roof with anything; the snow lies right on the film. Polycarbonate goes through the woods.

Integrator 02-07-2010 18:28

quote: Originally posted by alpar:

And in my greenhouses I have ordinary reinforced polyethylene film. The side frames are put away in the shed for the winter, and the film on the roof has not been removed for four years. One problem is the crows. They love to peck insects through the film on the roof. But after shooting one or two, they don’t arrive for a long time.

1. What is cellular polycarbonate?

Polycarbonate as a substance is a hard, colorless polymer plastic used in production in the form of granules. It is durable, lightweight, optically transparent, plastic, frost-resistant, a good dielectric, environmentally friendly and durable. Cellular or, as it is also called, cellular polycarbonate - plastic, produced by extrusion, is hollow panels of various thicknesses and structures, which are connected to each other by longitudinal jumpers - stiffeners. Polycarbonate belongs to the class synthetic polymers and is a linear polyester carbonic acid and phenols.

2. What is UV protection?

Cellular polycarbonate Despite its strength, it is destroyed under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. For most manufacturers, protection against ultraviolet radiation is “in bulk”. In addition to this protection, traditionally all products have a protective UV layer applied by coextrusion and it is this layer that prevents the sheet from being destroyed under the influence of sunlight. The layer can be applied on one or both sides. Without this technology, the service life of cellular polycarbonate does not exceed 2-3 years.

3. How flexible is cellular polycarbonate sheet?

The panels can be slightly bent or twisted to the minimum permissible radius, eliminating the need for heat treatment sheets, and only the natural properties of polycarbonates are used. Compression and twisting of the panel exceeding the minimum permissible radius leads to high blood pressure and surface deformation. As a result, bursting or breaking of the sheet, which is not covered under warranty

4. How to properly care for the coating?

The panels will last much longer if you keep them clean. Usually rainwater is enough for the panels to clean themselves. Individual areas can be cleaned using weakly concentrated cleaning agents. Make sure the cleaning product you choose does not contain abrasives or solvents. Get wet warm water, then wipe the dirty areas with a soft sponge or brush, preferably hot water. When the dirt has disappeared, rinse the panel with water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.

Grease or tar stains can be removed with diluted ethyl alcohol. Rub the stain gently with a soft cloth. Next, rinse as described above with plenty of water. Avoid rubbing the panels against each other, even if they are still under the protective film. This creates static electricity, which attracts dust and dirt and makes cleaning more difficult.

5. What are the main advantages of cellular polycarbonate?

• Ease
  Polycarbonate is 16 times lighter than glass. This means that it will allow you to significantly save on delivery and installation, because you will not have to build complex designs.
• Transparency
  Cellular polycarbonate transmits up to 90% of light, dispersing it evenly. At the same time, it has the ability to block harmful ultraviolet rays, which makes this material indispensable for covering greenhouses.
• Thermal insulation
  According to this characteristic, polycarbonate is not inferior to double-glazed windows. At the same time, its price is much more affordable.
• Soundproofing
  Sheets of cellular polycarbonate perfectly retain not only temperature, but also sound. This makes them indispensable for glazing production premises With high level noise.
• Heat and fire resistance
  Polycarbonate does not change its properties to a great extent temperature conditions: at -50 and +120 degrees it retains its flexibility, ability to retain heat and others General characteristics. And in the event of a fire, the polycarbonate material simply melts, preventing the fire from spreading.
• Strength
  Cellular polycarbonate is not afraid of even strong impacts. Therefore, it is actively used to create shop windows and internal office partitions. In addition, polycarbonate can easily withstand heavy loads. For example, it can be used to create a roof, and the sheets do not deform under the weight of snow. Considering the long service life of polycarbonate, its prices are very competitive.
• Attractive view
  Cellular polycarbonate is available in various color variations and has a beautiful glossy surface, which allows it to be used in the decoration of any modern buildings.

6. Where can polycarbonate be used?

• In greenhouses and conservatories
  Even the most capricious plants will be under reliable protection this material. Cellular polycarbonate creates a stable temperature and protects against aggressive ultraviolet radiation. In this case, landings will receive required amount Sveta. In polycarbonate greenhouses you can create optimal microclimate for a wide variety of plants.
• For showcases and pavilions
  This material has an attractive appearance and a wide variety of shades. In addition, cellular polycarbonate is highly flexible, which means it allows the construction of complex structures, including curved shapes. As a result, you get the opportunity to implement any design ideas, which will make your outlet stand out among others.
• In the glazing of industrial buildings
  An important feature of cellular polycarbonate is its strength and resistance to various influences. Even in the most extreme temperature conditions or severe impacts, the glazing will not be damaged, maintaining its thermal insulation properties. This stability of polycarbonate is indispensable in industrial buildings where the glass does not support the load properly.
• In creating office partitions
  Polycarbonate fits perfectly into modern design offices. Its flexibility will allow you to create partitions of any complexity. At the same time, due to the strength of cellular polycarbonate, such office design will not require frequent repairs. Quick care and resistance to any cleaning agents will provide you with additional benefits.
• In swimming pools and showers
  Cellular polycarbonate shows excellent moisture-resistant properties. It does not lose strength and appearance even from constant contact with water of different temperatures.

7. Why are thermal washers needed?

They are needed to neutralize thermal expansion. With large temperature differences, cellular polycarbonate is subject to thermal deformation. The thermal washer provides reliable point fastening of a sheet of cellular polycarbonate due to large area supports, provides reliable fastening, prevents the formation of “waves” in summer and breaks in winter.

8. What are the dimensions of polycarbonate sheets?

Standard sizes are 2100x6000 mm or 2100x12000 mm.

9. What colors are cellular polycarbonate available?

Cellular polycarbonate is available in 13 standard colors: transparent, yellow, red, green, turquoise, bronze, burgundy, brown, blue, milky, crushed ice, crushed ice bronze, silver.

10. How many chambers are there in polycarbonate?

one-, two-, three-, four-chamber

12. Why cover the ends of polycarbonate?

In order for polycarbonate to remain clean and transparent, it is necessary to cover the ends of the sheets. The ends are closed as follows: the upper open ends - with a sealing tape and an end profile to prevent the ingress of water, dust and snow, the lower ends - with a special perforated tape that does not impede air circulation and an end profile.

13. Is it necessary to remove the protective film from the surface of the cellular polycarbonate sheet?

You remove the protective film from the surface of the sheet after installation is completed. It is necessary to protect sheets during loading and unloading, transportation and installation. If you leave it, then under the influence of the sun after some time it can “stick” to the leaf, and removing it in the future will be problematic.

14. Will polycarbonate turn yellow over time?

To ensure that the polycarbonate does not turn yellow or become cloudy, a uniform special UV protective layer is applied to the cellular polycarbonate, which protects the material from the destructive effects of ultraviolet radiation (hard short-wave radiation harmful to both people and plants). This protective layer is located under the marking film. At correct installation The sheets must be installed with the UV protective layer facing outwards.

15. How can I determine, after removing the protective film, on which side of the cellular polycarbonate sheet the UV protective layer is located?

When installing polycarbonate, it is important to remember that the protective film must be removed only after cutting the sheets and installing it. During installation, the film must be removed at the fastening points. If you have removed the film from the sheet, then you can determine the side of the sheet with the protective UV layer on a fresh cut of the transparent sheet - a slightly bluish thin layer will be visible there.

16. Is cellular polycarbonate used to make awnings and protective canopies over basement floors?

Due to its impact-resistant properties, cellular polycarbonate is most suitable for making canopies and canopies over entrances and protecting pits for basement floors. Polycarbonate sheets are vandal-resistant and have an aesthetically attractive appearance. However, even durable polycarbonate sheets can be destroyed when large icicles from roofs hit them.

17. Is it possible to install polycarbonate in honeycombs along the roof and not across it?

It’s not possible, because honeycombs located parallel to the ground will prevent the removal of condensing moisture. The likelihood of snow bags on the polycarbonate sheet also increases in winter. And when installing an arched roof, this can lead to a break in the sheet.

18. Is it possible to install cellular polycarbonate in winter?

Yes, you can. Cellular polycarbonate can also be bent in a cold state. However, at temperatures below -25 degrees, installation is not advisable.

19. Can polycarbonate be used instead of glass?

Cellular polycarbonate is 200 times stronger and 8 times lighter than glass and can be used as its substitute. Thus, polycarbonate panels are resistant to hail impacts and provide safe glazing. Polycarbonate panels do not break or crack, and, therefore, there are no sharp fragments upon impact.

20. How resistant is polycarbonate to the external environment?

Cellular polycarbonate feels great in the temperature range from -40°C to +120°C, completely retaining all mechanical and optical properties. Cellular polycarbonate panels can withstand significant wind and snow loads.

21. What are the thermal insulation characteristics of polycarbonate?

The air gap in cellular polycarbonate panels is an excellent heat insulator. Even the most thin panels 4mm thick cellular polycarbonate is almost twice as thermally insulating as simple glazing. Panels with a thickness of 8mm are comparable to double-glazed windows, and 16-25mm panels exceed the thermal insulation performance of triple-glazed double-glazed windows.

22. How well does light penetrate polycarbonate?

The light transmission of transparent two-layer cellular polycarbonate panels reaches 86%. The light transmission of cellular polycarbonate panels practically does not decrease during long-term outdoor use. Hard ultraviolet radiation (range less than 400 nanometers), which has a harmful effect on humans, plants and equipment, practically does not pass through the polycarbonate sheet. The transmission of useful rays is optimal. The transmission of rays located in the extreme part of the infrared zone of the spectrum (more than 5000 nm) by cellular polycarbonate is minimal, as a result of which the heat emitted by objects inside the enclosed room remains inside, creating a “greenhouse effect”, which is an additional advantage when using this material as glazing for greenhouses , greenhouses, winter gardens, etc. All types of cellular polycarbonate panels favorably diffuse light, repeatedly reflecting rays of penetrating light from all surfaces ( upper layer, stiffeners, bottom layer).

23. Is polycarbonate a fireproof material?

Cellular polycarbonate has a certificate fire safety, which confirms the compliance of this product with established requirements, and belongs to the group of low-flammable materials. It burns only in an open flame and is self-extinguishing, does not contribute to the spread of combustion, does not form burning drops, during combustion only swelling of the material occurs and light threads are formed that have time to cool before falling. And finally, the holes formed when the polycarbonate panels are melted help remove smoke in the event of a fire.

24. What is the service life of polycarbonate?

The warranty period for cellular polycarbonate panels is more than 10 years. In practice, the service life of cellular polycarbonate panels as roofing material is not limited to 10 years and in stable weather conditions reaches 15-20 years. Please note that the most important condition for the long service life of cellular polycarbonate is compliance with all rules for storage, transportation, installation and subsequent operation of the material. The buyer is solely responsible for deciding what ready product made of cellular polycarbonate suitable for specific purpose, and that actual operating conditions are acceptable for the product.

25. Is it possible to cut polycarbonate, and how to do it?

Cutting polycarbonate panels with a thickness of 4 mm can be carried out with a special construction or breadboard knife with a retractable blade. When cutting a sheet of cellular polycarbonate, the protective film must remain intact, preventing the formation of scratches. For cutting thicker sheets, use high-speed a circular saw with a stop, equipped with blades with small, non-spaced teeth, reinforced with hard alloys. It is recommended to use saws with a speed of at least 3200 rpm. The sheets must be firmly fixed to prevent vibration. After completing the procedure, remove any remaining dust and small chips from the cut edges of the sheet compressed air or a vacuum cleaner.

26. How to join polycarbonate sheets?

Installation of polycarbonate panels is carried out using original HP polycarbonate connecting one-piece profiles, as well as detachable profiles (base, cover) HCP of our own production.

27. There is a protective film on the cellular polycarbonate sheets, is it worth removing it?

Sheets of cellular polycarbonate have a special one- or two-sided UV protective coating. The side or sides with this coating are usually marked with a film. The protective film must be removed during installation, otherwise it will “stick” to the material in the sun.

28. Is it worth installing polycarbonate fences?

For those wishing to build a light, attractive, modern-looking fence around their territory, we can recommend a fence made of polycarbonate. This material not only looks great, but can also be easily combined with any other materials such as metal, concrete, brick, wood and many others. You can easily create a structure with decorative elements, supports and lighting. When it comes to color and design, polycarbonate structures have the widest range of options. A fence made of cellular polycarbonate has several excellent qualities. It has ultra-high impact resistance (cellular polycarbonate with 200 times lighter weight stronger than glass, 8 times stronger than acrylic plastics and PVC). This material will not be affected by heat or cold (cellular polycarbonate is suitable for use in the temperature range from -40 ºС to +120 ºС). It is also an environmentally friendly inert material, does not throw away harmful substances V environment and is absolutely safe for people. Fences made of this material have high sound insulation properties. Installation takes a little time.
Considering the huge variety of frame designs and polycarbonate itself, you can show unprecedented imagination and translate it into the manufacture of fencing, thereby obtaining an exclusive product. Thus, the answer to the question posed is quite obvious - polycarbonate enclosing structures are extremely interesting option, and those who are ready for beautiful and original solutions, a polycarbonate fence is definitely WORTH IT!!

29. In what area and what thickness is it better to use polycarbonate?

The thickness of polycarbonate is important factor when choosing material for transparent structures. There are two most common types of polycarbonate - cellular and monolithic.

Cellular polycarbonate - polymer material in the form of sheets with a cellular structure. A sheet of such polycarbonate consists of two special layers that have special stiffeners (in the form of honeycombs). The most commonly used polycarbonate sheets range in thickness from 4 to 25mm. There is also reinforced polycarbonate (4mm, 6mm, 10mm, 16mm), which is a unique material, the only manufacturer of which in Russia is KARBOGLASS CJSC. Its peculiarity is the presence of additional stiffening ribs, which significantly increases the strength of the structure and increases its resistance to natural environmental factors.

The thicker the polycarbonate sheet, the lower its thermal conductivity, and this accordingly leads to a reduction in the consumption of electricity and heat (heating or cooling), and therefore financial resources.

Cellular polycarbonate, depending on thickness, is used in the following areas:

6-8 mm- wide use (greenhouses, greenhouses, sheds).

10 mm- overlap of horizontal and vertical surfaces(barriers on highways, high-rise lamps)

16- 25 mm- transparent roofs of houses.

32 mm- roofing with special requirements (for large impacts and loads)

It should be noted that 4 mm thick sheets are not intended for use as transparent roofs, houses or canopies in areas where strong gusty winds and snowfalls are possible.

Transparent hard polymer plastic, or polycarbonate, is widely used in various fields of activity, in particular in construction and agriculture. Today we will tell you how to remove film from polycarbonate.

Why do you need film?

Monolithic and cellular polycarbonate has good light transmittance, which is important for the growth and development of fruit and vegetables grown in greenhouses. vegetable crops. The absence or lack of sunlight negatively affects fruiting, and sudden changes in temperature lead to the death of plants. Polymer plastic casing supports favorable microclimate inside the greenhouse.

Many gardeners are interested in the purpose of the special protective coating on the surface of the canvas. It is worth noting that various chips, microcracks, scratches, dents and others mechanical damage lead to deterioration or complete loss of the original physical properties and material qualities. It is not advisable to use such a fabric for lining a greenhouse.

The light transmittance of polycarbonate is considered one of the main parameters

A special protective surface coating is necessary during loading and unloading operations, transportation and installation of polymer plastic.

High-quality cellular polycarbonate must be protected on both sides. In this case, one side is covered with a transparent colorless film, and the other is colored. Colored polyethylene indicates the UV protected side.

Responsible manufacturers apply the following markings to the film:

• name and specifications material;
• information about the manufacturing plant and brand;
• Recommendations for the installation of polymer plastic.

Video “Protective film on polycarbonate”

From this video you will learn how to properly remove film from cellular polycarbonate:

Coating on the inside

The protective layer from the inside of the sheet must be removed after installation of the polymer plastic is completed. If construction works carried out on a hot summer day, you should hurry to remove the protective coating. Otherwise, the polyethylene will “stick” to the canvas.

The protective film is removed from the edge to the center, while movements should be careful and leisurely. Scrape the special coating various instruments, devices and even nails are prohibited - there is a high risk of damaging the integrity of the surface of the material.

If the film still sticks to the polymer plastic sheet, you can use one of traditional methods: wet the surface of the sheet with warm water with the addition of liquid baby soap or dishwashing detergent, leave for a few minutes, remove the protective layer with a soft foam sponge.

Coating on the outside

The back side of cellular polycarbonate can have a colorless or colored film. A colorless special coating indicates that this sheet of polymer plastic does not have UV protection. Accordingly, the service life of such material is no more than 2–3 years.

It is necessary to remove the protective layer. Residues of polyethylene will damage the UV protection layer and deteriorate technical qualities polycarbonate.

Working with sheets of cellular polycarbonate is not difficult if you follow the advice of more experienced farmers and the recommendations of the manufacturer.