Polycarbonate (PC) injection moulding

Polycarbonate: 250 times stronger than glass

Polycarbonate (PC), often known by trade names such as Lexan or Makrolon, is an extremely strong, transparent thermoplastic. It is often referred to as the ‘unbreakable glass substitute’ and is particularly popular in applications where safety and impact resistance are crucial.

De Beer Plastics processes PC for a range of applications, including specialised optical components for LED lighting in demanding environments, such as in horticulture, where high temperatures and low degradation under blue light are required.

Opticians in PC

We manufacture high-precision optics for applications involving high-power LEDs that generate significant heat. These include horticulture – where yellowing caused by blue light is also a concern – as well as, for example, powerful high-bay LED floodlights.

In other situations, PC is specifically chosen for the material’s resistance to vandalism or impact. De Beer Plastics also injection moulds transparent components for robust lamps intended for heavy-duty applications in industry or offshore.

Applications of polycarbonate in injection moulding

Displays for electronics
Covers for measuring equipment
Lighting: optics for horticulture, protective covers for offshore applications, optics for high-power LEDs, light guides
Medical enclosures
Soap holders for shower rails

Difference from PMMA

Polycarbonate stands out from PMMA in particular due to its extreme strength. If it really needs to be vandal-proof, then PC is unbeatable.

The thermal load that PC can withstand is also significantly higher than that of PMMA. That is why PC is used in more extreme conditions.

On the other hand, PC is more difficult to process, more expensive and slightly less clear and transparent than PMMA. However, there are many different types of both PC and PMMA, so please seek advice from De Beer Plastics on this matter.