Polycarbonate (PC) CNC Machining
Transparent, impact strong and heat tolerant to 120 C: the plastic we machine when a part must survive what the metal around it cannot absorb.
Polycarbonate gives you glass-like transparency with impact strength far above acrylic, and it machines predictably once you respect its stress sensitivity. We machine PC rods and sheets for sight glasses, machine guards, and structural transparent parts.
Why Teams Pick It
- Transparent windows, sight glasses and light pipes
- Machine guards and impact shields
- Structural insulating parts to 120 C
- Stress-sensitive parts handled with annealing and gentle clamping
Machining Notes
| Aspect | How we handle it |
|---|---|
| Cutting | Sharp polished tools, moderate speed; heat management prevents crazing |
| Stress | Annealing before and after critical ops to avoid stress cracks |
| Tolerance | +/-0.05 mm standard; +/-0.005 mm achievable on stable geometries |
| Optical faces | Vapor polish or flame polish on request for transparent finish |
| Temperature limit | Continuous use to about 120 C |
Parts we make: typical parts. Polymer tolerance capability: tolerance standards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can machined PC stay transparent?
Machined faces come out frosted; we restore transparency with vapor polishing on request. Flat polished windows reach a clear, glass-like finish suitable for sight glasses.
Why do PC parts crack after machining?
Machined-in stress. We anneal before and after critical operations and use gentle clamping, which is why our PC parts pass later solvent and adhesive exposure.
PC or acrylic for a window?
PC when impact matters (guards, equipment windows); acrylic when only optical clarity matters and impact is not a factor. We machine both.
Machining a Plastic Part?
Send the drawing; we quote with grade and finish recommendations within 24 hours.
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