TUFFAK Polycarbonate Sheet - SitefinityWebApp

Chemical / Environmental ResistanceThe chemical and environmental resistance of TUFFAKdepends on the unique combination of factors and variables itencounters in its application.Outlined below is an overview of its primary outside influencers,and common types of potential damage. A summary oflaboratory tests designed to meet its practical requirements,as well as its resistance to a wide range of chemicals andsubstances, is also provided.Your Plaskolite Representative, with the support of our TechnicalService Group, is available to work with you to evaluate yourspecific application.Influencing parametersTUFFAK properties are influenced chiefly by:» The composition of chemical ingredientsMolecular degradationMany of TUFFAK properties are determined by the size of itsmolecules. If an incompatible chemical causes a reduction inmolecular weight, mechanical property degradation can occur.The molecular weight has virtually no influence on electricalproperties and only a slight influence on thermal properties.Solutions with a high pH (bases) can act to lower the molecularweight of polycarbonate. Low pH (acids) solutions typically donot degrade the molecular weight. Ammonia and amines areaggressive towards polycarbonate.Plaskolite laboratories have tested a series of chemicals andcommercial products to determine their compatibility withpolycarbonate. The results of TUFFAK resistance to substancesare included in the following table (pages 10-13).» Duration of exposureLaboratory tests supply information on the formulation tested.The composition of many commercial products can changeover time.» The level of internal or applied stress and strainOxidative damageTypes of damageTUFFAK is relatively stable toward oxidizing agents such asoxygen, nitric acid, and hydrogen peroxide.» TemperatureTUFFAK can sustain several distinct types of damage, includingswelling, dissolution, stress cracking and molecular degradation.Circumstances under which these potential types of damagecan occur are detailed below. Different chemicals may actsimultaneously on TUFFAK sheet causing one or more typesof damage.Swelling or dissolutionWhen low-molecular, aromatic, halogenated and polarcomponents migrate into the polycarbonate, the damage canrange from a tacky surface, to swelling, to complete dissolution.Stress crackingEven in small quantities, a number of chemicals can penetratethe surface of TUFFAK. This may result in stress cracksthat affect the formed or fabricated part’s appearance ormechanical properties.With transparent grades of TUFFAK, stress cracks are generallyeasy to detect. In opaque grades, it may be difficult to detectthem. Stress cracks can act like a notch, leading to significantdeterioration in several mechanical properties, particularlyimpact, flexural and tensile performance. Laboratory tests suchas impact or flexural strength can be used as indicators formechanical property degradation.Temperature and the duration of exposure are key influencersin the potential cracking of TUFFAK. As temperature rises,the time that elapses before damage occurs shortens. Theexposure time required for initial damage ranges from a fewseconds to more than 1000 hours due to the chemical involved,temperature, and stress level. For example, when formed orfabricated parts with pronounced stresses are immersed inaggressive solvents, stress cracks will occur in less thanone minute.It is possible for a component within a solid to migrate topolycarbonate through long-term contact and cause damage.One example is the contact between polycarbonate andplasticized PVC. Plasticizers within PVC, such as phthalatescan trigger stress cracking and result in damage to the8 polycarbonate.ResistanceTUFFAK’s resistance to chemicals, common industrial cleaners,pharmaceuticals, household and cosmetic substances, isdependent on the ingredients in the product, as well as thetemperature and duration of exposure. The following sectionprovides a general overview of resistance to these commonlyused materials. If you require additional information, pleasecontact your Plaskolite representative.» Resistance to sealing compounds, adhesives and plasticsTUFFAK’s resistance to sealants, adhesives and plastics is largelydependent on the presence of aggressive components, suchas plasticizers (e.g., phthalates) or solvents, which can migrateinto polycarbonate.» Resistance to paintsSolvents in paints may cause stress cracking or swellingdepending upon the solvent and the flash-off and dryingconditions. It is possible to formulate paints with solvents that donot cause damage. In some applications, painting can increasethe chemical resistance of the finished part.Two component paints are resistant if the individual componentsdo not cause damage to TUFFAK in the short period betweenthe application and curing. The SDS can be used to identify thechemical composition of the paint.» Resistance to cleaning and washing agentsTUFFAK is resistant to most household soaps but not thosecontaining amines, ammonia and sodium hydroxide.» Resistance to disinfectants, drugs and cosmeticsTUFFAK may be damaged by disinfectants, drugs and cosmetics,which contain solvents or active ingredients that are incompatible with polycarbonate. For example, nail polish and nailpolish remover will cause damage to the material.If the product ingredients are known, it is possible to estimatethe compatibility with TUFFAK. However, it is recommendedto put the finished part through a practical test if no data isavailable. Refer to the compatibility table (pages 10-13) forresistance levels.

Chemical / Environmental ResistanceTesting to meet practical requirementsThe compatibility information presented in this section shouldbe used as a starting point for determining the integrity anddurability of your application. Testing is essential if finishedTUFFAK components are likely to encounter aggressivechemicals during use. The internal and applied stress in aformed or fabricated part, as well as duration of chemicalexposure, can lead to very different results.Compatibility assessment methodsThe data shown in the compatibility table (pages 10-13) wasgenerated using DIN 53449-3. This method uses test piecesof 80 x 10 x 4 mm TUFFAK sheet clamped to a curved fixture.The fixture applies a graduated strain ranging from0 to 2%.Assessment criteriaThe information in the compatibility table is based on exposureto chemicals at 23 C and a range from 0-2% strain. Componentsthat lead to damage with a strain of e 1.0 % are classified asincompatible.The results shown in the following tables are based on aone-time test. Change in the composition by the producers ofthese substances can change the results.Please contact your Plaskolite representative or the TechnicalService Group at 800.628.5084 with any questions, or if yourequire additional information.9

Chemical / Environmental ResistanceLegendExplanation of the symbols: O-ResistantPartially resistantNot ResistantChemicalsAcetaldehydeAcetic acid, up to 10% lumAluminum chloride, saturated aqueous solutionAluminum oxalateAluminum sulphate, saturated aqueous solutionAmmoniaAmmoniacal liquorAmmonium chloride, saturated aqueous solutionAmmonium nitrate, saturated aqueous solutionAmmonium sulphate,saturated aqueous solutionAmmonium sulphide, saturated aqueous solutionAmylo acetateAnilineAntimony chloride, saturated aqueous solutionArsenic acid, 20% solutionBenzaldehydeBenzeneBenzoic acidBenzyl alcoholBorax, saturated aqueous solutionBoric acidBromic benzeneBromineButane (liquid or gaseous)Butyl acetateButanolButylene glycolButyric acidCalcium chloride, saturated aqueous solutionCalcium hypochlorideCalcium nitrate, saturated aqueous solutionCalcium-soap, fat/pureCarbon acid, wetCarbon monoxideChlorine benzeneChlorine gas, dryChlorine gas, wetChlorine lime slurry10 O O Chlorine lime, 2% in waterChloroformChrom alum, saturated aqueous solutionChromic acid, 20% in waterCitric acidCopper sulphate, saturated aqueous solutionCresolCupric chloride, saturated aqueous solutionCuprous chloride, saturated aqueous solutionCyclo hexaneCyclo hexanolCyclo hexanoneDekalineDiamyl phthalateDibutyl phthalate (plasticizer)Diethylene glykolDiethyletherDiglycolic acid, saturated aqueous solutionDimethyl formamideDinonyl phthalate (plasticizer)Dioctyl phthalate (plasticizer)DioxaneDiphyl 5, 3EtherEthyl alcohol, 96% pureEthyl amineEthyl bromideEthylene chlorohydrineEthylene chlorideEthylene glykolFerritrichloride, saturated aqueous solutionFerro bisulphateFormaline, 10%igFormic acid, c acid, 20%Hydrochloric acid, conc.Hydrofluoric acid, 5%Hydrofluoric acid, conc.Hydrofluorosilicic acid, 30%Hydrogen peroxide, 30%IodineIsoamyl alcoholIsopropyl alcoholLactic acid, 10% in waterLead tetraethylene, 10% in gasolineLighting gas O OOO O O O O

Chemical / Environmental ResistanceLigroin (hydrocarbon compound)Lime milk, 30% in waterMagnesium chloride, saturated aqueous solutionMagnesium sulphate, saturated aqueous solutionManganous sulphate, saturated aqueous solutionMercuro chloride, saturated aqueous solutionMercuryMethacrylic acid-methyester (MMA)MethaneMethanolMethyl amineMethyl ethyl ketone (MEK)Methylene chlorideNitric acid, 10%Nitric acid, 10-20%Nitric acid, 20%Nitric Gas, dryNitrobenzeneOxalic acid, 10% in waterOxygenOzonePentanePerchloric acid, 10% in waterPerchloric acid, concentratedPerchloro ethylenePerhydrol, 30%PetroleumPetroleum etherPetroleum spiritPhenolPhenyl ethyl alcoholPhosphor trichloridePhosphoric acid, conc.Phosphoric oxichloridePotassium aluminum sulpate, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium bichromate, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium bromide, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium carbonate, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium chloride, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium cyanidePotassium hydroxidePotassium metabisulphide, 4% in waterPotassium nitrate, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium perchlorate, 10% in waterPotassium permanganate, 10% in waterPotassium persulphate, 10% in waterPotassium rhodanide, saturated aqueous solutionPotassium sulphate, saturated aqueous solutionPropane gasPropargyl alcoholPropionic acid, 20% O O O OO Propionic acid, conc.Propyl alcoholPyridineResorcin oil solution, 1%Carbon disulphideHydrogen sulphideSodaSodium bicarbonate, saturated aqueous solutionSodium bisulphate, saturated aqueous solutionSodium bisulphide, saturated aqueous solutionSodium carbonate, saturated aqueous solutionSodium chlorate, saturated aqueous solutionSodium chloride, saturated aqueous solutionSodium hydroxideSodium hypochloride, 5% in waterSodium sulphate, saturated aqueous solutionSodium sulphide, saturated aqueous solutionStyreneSublimate, saturated aqueous solutionSulphurSulphur dioxideSulphuric acid, 50%Sulphuric acid, 70%Sulphuric acid, conc.Sulphurous acid, 10%Sulphuryl chlorideTartaric acid, aneTetralineThiopheneTolueneTrichloro acetic acid, 10%Trichloroethyl amineTrichloroethyl phosphate (plasticizer)TrichloroethyleneTricresyl phosphate (plasticizer)Urea, saturated aqueous solutionWaterXyleneZinc chloride, saturated aqueous solutionZinc oxideZinc sulphate, saturated aqueous solution O O O OO 11

Chemical / Environmental ResistanceDisinfectantsAccel TBBaktol , 5%Carbolic acidChloroamineClorox BROAD SPECTRUM Quaternary Disinfectant CleanerClorox Healthcare FUZION Cleaner DisinfectantClorox Healthcare Bleach Germicidal CleanerDelegol , 5%Dimamin T, 5%Hydrogen peroxideIodine tinctureLysoform, 2%Lysol Brand III Disinfectant Spray (original)Maktol Merfen , 2%Oktozon , 1%PDI Super Sani-Cloth Disposable WipesPerhydrolPeridoxRTU Sporicidal DisinfectantResorcinol solutions, 1%Safetec Surface Safe WipesSagrotan , 5%Spirit, pureSteriplex SDSublimateTB-LysoformTrosilin G extra , 1, 5%ZEP 40 Non-Streaking CleanerZEP SPIRIT IIZephirol Nutrition O O O OPharmaceutics and cosmeticsBlood plasmaDelial-Sunmilk Botanicare HydroplexIodine tinctureKlosterbalsamLanolineMenthol, 90% in AlcoholNail polishNail polish removerOdol-mouthwash Periston blood substitute VaselineVicks VapoRub 12 O O AllspiceApple juiceBeef sebumBeerBeets syrupBrandy, 38%ButterChocolateCinnamonCloveCod-liver oilCoffeeCommon saltFishFruit juiceFruit syrup (Raspberry)GherkinsGrape sugarGrapefruit juiceJuniper berryLardLinseed oilLiquorMargarineMeatMilkMineral waterMustardNutmegOnionOrange juicePaprikaPepperRumSalad oilSyrupSugar solution, saturated aqueous solutionTeaTobaccoTomato juiceTomato pureeVanillaVegetable juiceVegetable oilsVinegarVodkaWaterWineWorcestershire sauce O

Chemical / Environmental ResistanceWashing and cleaning agentsHousehold soapTop JobJoy Palmolive Liquid Technical oils and fatsCamphor oilCastor oilCod-liver oilDrilling oilFish oilFuel oilLubricant based on paraffinParaffin oil O Sodium soap fat MiscellaneousBattery acidBloodCastor oilCementFreon 113GasolineNatural rubberOleic acid, conc.Polishing waxPolyethylenePolyvinylchloride, (containing plasticizer)Sea waterStarchWeak acid 4.7 pHWeak base 9.5 pHTannic acid O O O-13

CleaningRecommendations14

Cleaning RecommendationsTUFFAK cleaning instructionsRemoving adhesive-backed labels:Periodic cleaning of TUFFAK is recommended to prolong theservice life of your material. To minimize the risk of damage,use only compatible household cleaners and correct cleaningprocedures as outlined below.» Isopropyl Alcohol, Naphtha VM&P grade or Kerosene will helplift stickers and adhesives.TUFFAK GP polycarbonate mars easily with wiping action.TUFFAK 15, TUFFAK AR, and Hygard laminate sheets are hardcoated, abrasion and mar resistant polycarbonate productsthat offer a high degree of surface hardness and abrasionresistance. These products provide superior protection againstunintentional chemical attack. However, the use of abrasive,gritty cleaners or hard cleaning implements (e.g., hard brushes,scrapers, squeegees) should be avoided to eliminate thepossibility of scratching the coating.Compatible cleanersThe following cleaning agents are compatible with TUFFAKpolycarbonate sheet products when used according to themanufacturer’s recommendations:» Top Job» Joy » Palmolive Liquid » Windex Ammonia freeTop Job and Joy are registered trademarks of Proctor & Gamble, Palmolive is a registeredtrademark of Colgate Palmolive, Windex is a registered trademark of Drackett Products.General cleaning instructions:» Thoroughly pre-rinse with warm water to loosen and washaway surface residue, grit and grime.» Using a soft microfiber cloth or moist non-abrasive sponge,gently wash with a mild diluted soap or detergent.» Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm, clean water. To prevent waterspots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a dry soft cloth.Removing heavy oils and tars:» Thoroughly pre-rinse with warm water to loosen and washaway surface residue, grit and grime.» With a 50/50 isopropyl alcohol-water mixture, gently rub thearea with a soft non-abrasive cloth.» Immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water.To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a drysoft cloth.Removing graffiti, paint, marker, inks andglazing compounds:» Immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water.To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a drysoft cloth.Important reminders» Do not clean TUFFAK with any cleaners other than those onthe approved, compatible list included in this guide, or thosetested and found compatible.» Do not use abrasive cleaners.» Do not use high alkaline cleaners (high pH or ammoniated).» Do not leave cleaners sitting on TUFFAK for periods of time;rinse off immediately.» Do not apply cleaners under direct sunlight or at elevatedtemperatures.» Do not use scrapers, squeegees, razors or other sharpinstruments as they may permanently scratch TUFFAK.» Do not dry rub or dry clean TUFFAK, as sand and dustparticles clinging to the exterior of the glazing may scratch itssurface. An Anti-Static Canned-Air Ionizer can reduce electrostatic charge buildup on TUFFAK, and aids in reducing dirtand dust buildup that can hinder cleaning.Contact the Plaskolite Technical Service Group at800.628.5084 with any questions.TECH TIP:The edges of coated polycarbonate sheet are not protectedwith an abrasion and chemical resistant hard coating. Donot allow cleaning solutions and solvents to pool along theedges for any length of time. Always rinse edges thoroughlywith generous amounts of lukewarm clean water.Removing scratchesDeep scratches and gouges made by sharp objects suchas keys, screwdrivers, and knives cannot be repaired. Finescratches may be reduced in severity or cosmetically hiddenby using a buffing compound such as NOVUS 2 Plastic FineScratch Remover, followed by a cleaning and polishing agentlike NOVUS 1. However, for abrasion resistant coated products,buffing the surface is not recommended. Buffing thesescratched sites worsen the condition and further damage thecoating. Once the coating is removed, it cannot be repaired andbuffing may optically distort the window.» Thoroughly pre-rinse with warm water to loosen and washaway surface residue, grit and grime.» Using Naphtha VM&P grade, Isopropyl Alcohol or ButylCellosolve , gently rub the area with a soft, non-abrasivecloth. Do not apply solvent cleaners under direct sunlight orduring high temperatures.» Immediately rinse thoroughly with lukewarm clean water.To prevent water spots, thoroughly dry the glazing with a drysoft cloth.Butyl Cellosolve is a trademark of DOW.Novus 1 and Novus 2 are registered trademarks of Novus Plastic Polish.15

Fabrication16

Fabrication – IntroductionCuttersDimensional accuracyTUFFAK sheet products easily fabricate using standard cuttingtools. Carbide-tipped cutters are recommended. Always useproperly sized, sharp cutting tools.The rate at which TUFFAK sheet expands is higher thanmaterials such as glass and metal. It has a movement rateof 0.060 per 12 inches of linear dimensions, over a 70 Ftemperature change. As a result, the dimensions shouldalways be checked at room temperature.CoolingCooling TUFFAK sheet while fabricating is not typically required.In the event of localized overheating when fabricating, only usecompressed air or water mist. Avoid cutting fluids of any type.The additives in these products are largely incompatible and cancause chemical stress cracking.TECH TIP:Wear eye protection, and ensure equipment has safetyguarding. Stock feed rates must be carefully controlled asan excessive rate causes vibration and may crack the part.Protective maskingTUFFAK sheet comes with protective masking. This film guardsagainst surface damage during shipment/handling as well asfabrication. This masking should be left on during fabrication.Masking cannot withstand direct outdoor exposure forprolonged periods and must be removed soon after installation.If not removed, the film will eventually degrade and may bedifficult or impossible to remove. Storing sheet outdoors is notrecommended for this reason.Remove the masking prior to doing any type of heat processing;for further guidance on this subject please contact PlaskoliteTechnical Service Group for more information.SAWING, SHEARING, DRILLING, MILLING, ROUTING, DIE CUTTING/PUNCHINGCIRCULAR SAWINGAs shown in the accompanying illustration, use a carbide-tipped,circular saw blade with triple-chip tooth design, which cutsclean and lasts longer than high strength steel. Blade is hollowground and slotted for expansion and cooling.The blade cutting speed should be 5000-6000 ft/min, and thetable saw setup gap (between saw blade and bed) must be keptto a minimum for clean cuts.Circular saw blade and cuttingCutting speed (ft/min)5000 - 60004 Blade8 - 10 teeth/inch8 - 10 Blades6 - 8 teeth/inchCircular saw troubleshootingPROBLEM: Melting or Gummed EdgesSUGGESTED SOLUTIONS:1. Increase blade tooth size2. Reduce saw speedTriple-chip grind3. Increase feed rate4. Use compressed air to cool blade5. Inspect blade for sharpness6. Check blade-fence alignment7. Reduce number of sheets in stackPROBLEM: ChippingSUGGESTED SOLUTIONS:1. Decrease blade tooth size2. Increase saw size3. Provide better clamping/support for sheet stack4. Reduce feed rateBlade5. Check blade and arbor for wobble6. Inspect blade for sharpnessCircular saw blade suppliers:Dino Saw Company340 Power Ave.Hudson, NY 12534518 828-9942www.dinosaw.comGeneral Saw Corp.2518 Andalusia Blvd.Cape Coral, FL 33909800 772-3691www.peaktoolworks.comFTM, Inc.327 Industrial DrivePlacerville, CA 95667530 626-1986www.fabricationtoolsandmaterials.com17

FabricationBAND SAWINGBand saw troubleshootingBand sawing is preferred for cutting contour andirregular shapes.PROBLEM: Melting or Gummed EdgesSUGGESTED SOLUTIONS:General guidelines:1. Increase blade tooth size» Use precision or standard blades for sheet and parts madefrom thin gauge2. Reduce saw speed3. Use compressed air to cool blade» Use buttress or skip-tooth blades for sheets thicker than1/8 inch4. Check blade sharpnessPROBLEM: ChippingSUGGESTED SOLUTIONS:» Choose band-saw blades with generous set to reducefriction and heat buildup» Cool the cut junction with air or a water mist1. Decrease blade tooth size» Control the feed rate carefully to prevent bindingand gumming2. Slow down stock feed rate3. Provide better cla

polycarbonate through long-term contact and cause damage. One example is the contact between polycarbonate and plasticized PVC. Plasticizers within PVC, such as phthalates can trigger stress cracking and result in damage to the polycarbonate. Molecular degradation Many of TUFFAK propert