Custom PC (Polycarbonate) Vacuum Forming & Thermoforming Service

What is PC (Polycarbonate)?

Polycarbonate (PC) is a high-performance thermoplastic known for its exceptional clarity, strength, and versatility. It is a lightweight material that combines excellent impact resistance with high dimensional stability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. PC sheets are commonly used in industries where durability and clarity are essential, such as automotive, electronics, and safety equipment.

What is PC (Polycarbonate) Vacuum Forming?

Vacuum forming is a manufacturing process used to shape thermoplastic materials, including polycarbonate sheets, into specific forms. During this process, a heated sheet of PC is stretched over a mold, and a vacuum is applied to pull the material tightly against the mold’s surface. This method allows for the creation of intricate shapes and designs with minimal waste, making it a cost-effective option for producing custom products.

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Vacuum Forming & Thermoforming Grade PC (Polycarbonate) Sheet

PC sheets used in vacuum forming typically come in various grades, depending on their intended application. The most common grades include:

General Purpose PC: Suitable for standard applications with good impact resistance and clarity.
UV-Stabilized PC: Enhanced resistance to UV light, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
High-Temperature PC: Designed to withstand elevated temperatures without losing structural integrity.

Compare Material Properties of PC (Polycarbonate) Materials for Vacuum Forming

Here is a comparison table of the key material properties of PC sheets used in vacuum forming:

Property	General Purpose PC	UV-Stabilized PC	High-Temperature PC
Impact Resistance	Excellent	Excellent	Good
Temperature Resistance	-45℃ to 125℃	-45℃ to 120℃	-60℃ to 120℃
Water Absorption	Low	Low	Low
Dimensional Stability	High	High	Very High
UV Resistance	Poor	Excellent	Poor
Chemical Resistance	Moderate	Moderate	Moderate

Key Benefits of PC (Polycarbonate) Vacuum Forming

High Impact Resistance

PC is known for its durability and can withstand significant force without breaking.

Clarity and Transparency

It offers excellent optical clarity, making it perfect for applications where visibility is crucial.

Temperature Stability

PC maintains its properties across a wide temperature range, suitable for various environments.

Customization

The vacuum forming process allows for rapid prototyping and the creation of custom shapes to meet specific needs.

Cost-Effectiveness

Lower tooling costs compared to other methods like injection molding, making it ideal for small to medium runs.

Applications of PC (Polycarbonate) Vacuum Forming

PC vacuum forming finds applications in many industries due to its unique properties:

Automotive

Used for parts like instrument panels, light covers, and protective shields.

Medical

Utilized in medical device enclosures and protective equipment.

Electronics

Commonly found in electrical insulation components, LCD displays, and electronic housings.

Signage

Widely used in signage, labels, and switch panels due to its clarity and weather resistance.

Some of SME’s PC Vacuum Forming Product Gallery

At Guangzhou SME Plastic Co., Ltd, we take pride in our diverse range of PC vacuum-formed products. Here are a few examples of what we can create:

Customizable PC Vacuum Forming Shell for Outdoor Starry Sky Bubble Dome

Personalized transparent vacuum formed PC shell for kayak

Customized vacuum formed plastic ABS, PC car roof luggage box shell

OEM Outdoor Acrylic/PC/PVC Vacuum Formed Advertising Lightbox & Signage

Get Custom PC (Polycarbonate) Vacuum Forming Quote

If you’re interested in custom PC vacuum forming services, we’d love to help! At SME Plastic, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. To get started, simply reach out to us with your design drawings, material specifications, and any other details about your project. Our experienced team will provide you with a timely and competitive quote.