In order to properly install polycarbonate sheets, it is important to pay attention to a number of coefficients that indicate how the material reacts to the different temperature and weather conditions.
To properly fix the sheets and ensure the reliability and durability of polycarbonate structures, pay attention to the Thermal linear expansion (α). The indicator determines the material’s expansion or contraction concerning its original size during temperature fluctuations. Polycarbonate sheets can both expand and contract, which affects their functionality and stability. Therefore, it is important to consider this before starting installation works.
To ensure optimum functionality and a long service life of the material, consider the Vicat softening temperature (VST, °С). It indicates the temperature at which the material begins to soften and assesses the ability of polycarbonate sheets to maintain mechanical properties at high temperatures. If you dwell in a region characterised by high temperatures in summer, do not neglect this coefficient, as it directly correlates with structure’s efficient lifespan.
When designing and constructing premises where noise reduction is required, such as offices, hotels, residential buildings, classrooms, recording studios, etc., pay attention to the Sound insulation index (sound reduction index) in decibels (dB). It measures the sound pressure level transmitted through a material or structure. Higher values indicate better sound insulation and such material will facilitate comfortable indoor environment.
Also, when constructing living spaces, the Fire reaction of materials plays an important role in determining the fire safety of structures. Choose products that are certified in accordance with European standards. For example, SOTON products are certified with the European standard EN 13501-1, according to which the materials are classified into different categories:
Class A – Non-combustible materials;
Class B – Limited combustible materials;
Class C – Materials with good fire resistance;
Class D – Materials with moderate fire resistance;
Class E – Materials with slight fire resistance;
Class F – Materials with high rate of flame spread.
In addition to the basic class designation, there are smoke production indicators (S1 and S2) and release of burning droplets indicators (D0 and D1).
S1 means that the material has a low ability to produce smoke during combustion. At the same time, S2 means that the material has a moderate ability to produce smoke during combustion.
Accordingly, D0 means that the material does not release burning droplets during combustion, while D1 indicates that the material emits a limited number of burning droplets during combustion.
It is important to take the above-mentioned indicators into account in order to create a structure that will maintain its technical characteristics for a long period of time. This not only boosts efficient exploitation of building structures, but also prevents unnecessary costs that can be incurred by correcting and eliminating careless mistakes.