Plastic finds a multitude of uses in different industrial segments. Polycarbonate is one of the key materials. Lexan is the trademark name for polycarbonate which is widely used. Its unique property eases development, thus making it one of the most widely used plastic.
A worker installs a polycarbonate sneeze guard at Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Ohio, U.S., on Monday, July 6, 2020. Plexiglass product manufacturers are reporting an increase in sales as public health experts release guidelines for retrofitting workspaces to make them safe for employees who are returning. Photographer: Dane Rhys/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Lexan polycarbonate Overview:
Before we go ahead, you should know that Lexan is the brand name and no polycarbonate itself. But because of its popularity, people now use Lexan as a synonymous term with polycarbonate, in the same way as we use Band-Aid for bandages.
Lexan is one of the family members of thermoplastics. It became popular because of its ability to deformation without breaking or cracking reducing extra maintenance cost. Another feature that makes Lexan a popular choice is that it offers 250 times more strength than glass and 30 times stronger than acrylic, which is yet again a type of thermoplastic.
To sum it up, it is the strength and durability of Lexan that makes it a popular choice amongst the manufacturers.
Benefits and uses of Lexan polycarbonate:
We have already mentioned the strength and durability of Lexan; here are some of the other features and benefits of Lexan:
1. It offers high impact resistance, thus making it 250 times stronger than glass and 30 times stronger than Acrylic.
2. Lexan can easily handle high temperature of up to 240 degrees and are weather resistant.
3. Lexan is resistant to chemical and acids which is why it is used for storing chemicals as well.
4. It can be deformed without the risk of cracking or breaking.
5. It offers a low level of flammability.
The above-mentioned factors should have convinced you about the benefits of Lexan polycarbonates, but there are some trade-offs that you should know. These are highlighted below:
1. These are not completely scratch resistant.
2. These are more expensive than glass and some thermoplastics.
3. You cannot polish it to regain its clarity.
4. It becomes yellowish with exposure to UV rays.
5. These develop dents if not handled with care.
Some of the key uses of Lexan:
Lexan finds a multitude of applications; some of the popular uses of it are:
1. Windshields and windows of automobiles
2. Reusable drinking bottles
3. Window well covers
4. Machinery guards
5. LED light pipes
6. Bullet-resistant glasses
Lexan or Acrylic
You will come across the fact that Lexan and Acrylic have similar applications. But when it comes to its key characteristics and features, Lexan takes the lead in terms of strength, durability, and impact. Acrylic is more suitable for aesthetically appealing products. When you compare acrylic and Lexan on parameters of strength and durability, then Lexan is far more impact resistant and can easily bear high temperature. But it is not completely transparent, and this is where Acrylic comes in. It is transparent, looks shinier, and also UV-resistant.
Comparing all the positives and the negatives of Lexan and Acrylic, we can conclude that Lexan polycarbonate takes the lead at certain places. It is far more rugged and robust. But if you are taking into account the look and the aesthetics, then Acrylic should be the right choice for you. The choice you make will depend on your demand. You can search the internet for more information.
Lexan finds prominence in the world of manufacturing. But here you must know that if you are buying Lexan, then you will come across the different varieties of the same. So, if you are planning to add this material to your manufacturing process, then you must choose the one which is of the best quality. And so, you must rely on Lexan polycarbonate. It is of the best quality and hence will guarantee the best product.
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