Differences Between Processing Polycarbonate (PC) And Acrylic (PMMA)

DALIAN, China - May 11, 2025 - PRLog -- 1. Differences Between PC and PMMA (Acrylic)

To better understand the differences in processing acrylic and PC materials, let's examine their distinct properties.

1.1 Material Properties and Applications

Properties and Applications of PC

Transparent PC boasts a high light transmission rate of up to 88%, offering excellent visibility for machined parts. In mechanical and precision machining, PC stands out due to its high stress resistance and superior impact strength, making it an ideal choice for non-standard components requiring robust material performance. However, PC has moderate weather resistance and poor UV resistance.

PC is widely used in the manufacture of electrical and electronic devices, safety equipment, automotive parts, office equipment, and outdoor signage. In precision machining, product engineers frequently utilize PC to produce transparent structural components or optical parts. Properties and Applications of PMMA (Acrylic)

Transparent acrylic has outstanding optical clarity, with a precise light transmittance of 92%, ensuring excellent visibility. It is one of the best hydrolysis-resistant and non-yellowing plastics, offering superior weather resistance. When UV stabilizers are added, its UV resistance improves significantly, and it remains stable within a temperature range of 40–80°C. However, acrylic has a lower melting point and poor heat resistance, making it prone to deformation at relatively low temperatures.

Although PMMA is relatively brittle, its exceptional optical performance, light transmittance, and weather resistance make it widely used across various industries, including the automotive sector, where high optical quality is required for lighting components. In mechanical and non-standard component machining, acrylic is commonly used for aquarium tanks, displays, signage, picture frames, architectural features, and decorative components.

1.2 Machining and Surface Treatment

Machining PC and Surface Treatment Considerations

Transparent PC is a tough and impact-resistant material with excellent strength, making its machining process relatively time-consuming. Milling machines, drilling machines, or lathes can be used for machining PC parts. Additionally, PC can be disassembled and re-bonded into different shapes. In terms of surface treatment, PC products are more suitable for painting or vacuum coating but cannot be electroplated.

Since PC has a low melting point, special attention must be paid during CNC machining to prevent excessive heat buildup. Machined PC surfaces typically appear semi-transparent, and manual polishing alone cannot achieve full transparency. Therefore, for high optical clarity requirements, vapor polishing is recommended. This method enhances the transparency of PC components effectively.
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