How to glue polycarbonate (PC plastic)
Gluing Polycarbonate (PC Plastic)
Polycarbonate is an extremely impact-resistant thermoplastic material that is transparent like glass. It is used in CDs, eyeglass lenses, greenhouses, construction panels, and more. Although polycarbonate is very tough, it has certain limitations to be aware of. The material should not be exposed to water over 60°C for extended periods, it scratches relatively easily (think of old CDs), and it does not withstand strong solvents or undiluted acids.
Gluing
For optimal adhesion, parts should always be cleaned before gluing.
A good two-component methyl methacrylate is an excellent solution for gluing polycarbonate. Some types have very high adhesion to polycarbonate and also adhere well to materials such as steel, aluminum, and coated surfaces. Once cured, the glue is solid but has high elongation at break, allowing it to withstand mechanical stress.
For production with many small parts, UV glue is often used because it cures very quickly and has good adhesion. UV glue is available in various viscosities. UV glue requires that at least one of the parts is transparent so that the glue can be activated and cured.
The correct type of cyanoacrylate (super glue) can also be used, as super glue and UV/photocurable glues share many characteristics.
For thicker joints or bonding polycarbonate to metal, a strong two-component epoxy is recommended, as is polyurethane, depending on the materials to be joined. These glues come in a range of viscosities, have very high strength, high heat resistance, and are usually available in black, gray, or transparent.
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