Blog      Contact Us

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet

Processability | 3H Scratch Resistance | self-Cleaning Hydrophobic
Andisco Thermoforming Polycarbonate sheet features heat-bending, scratch resistance, self-cleaning hydrophobic surface, and low-cost compression molding, bringing cost advantages, shorter production cycles, breaking through the limitations of injection molding for automotive interiors, exteriors, and outdoor equipment manufacturing, and is suitable for various products.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Description

Break free from traditional manufacturing constraints with Andisco Thermoforming Polycarbonate ,the first thermally formable polycarbonate sheet  that combines anti-scratch property after coating processing has a surface hardness of 2-3H, excellent hydrophobic performance and processability.
 
The core advantage of this product over similar products in the market is that it combines processability and wear resistance, as well as self-hydrophobicity. This polycarbonate sheet is particularly well-suited for applications where both intricate shapes and long-lasting durability are essential. Industries such as consumer electronics, automotive manufacturing, and outdoor equipment production benefit greatly from this innovation. 

One of the standout features of this product compared to similar offerings in the market is its unique combination of processability, wear resistance, and self-hydrophobicity. These attributes enable manufacturers to fulfill orders for small batches of complex-shaped products efficiently and cost-effectively. Traditionally, customers seeking such customized solutions were limited to injection-molded parts, which often come with high costs and large minimum order quantities. This limitation made it challenging for smaller businesses or those requiring highly specific designs to access affordable options.

We now allow customers to produce small batches of complex-shaped products using relatively low-cost compression molding processes. Compression molding involves heating the material and applying pressure to shape it into the desired form, making it an ideal choice for creating detailed and precise components without the need for expensive tooling associated with injection molding.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Properties and Benefits

The properties of thermoforming anti scratch polycarbonate sheets are essential for understanding their uses:
 
 
Key Properties
  • Thermoformability
 
Can be heat-bent at 140–160°C without whitening or cracking.
Maintains structural integrity even with complex geometries (3x thickness bend radius).
  • Enhanced Scratch Resistance (2-3H Pencil Hardness)
Hard-coated surface resists scratches from keys, tools, and debris.
Outperforms standard PC sheets (typically ≤1H).
  • Self-Cleaning Hydrophobicity (110° Water Contact Angle)
Repels water, oil, and dust for low-maintenance surfaces.
Reduces cleaning frequency by 80%+ vs. untreated PC.
  • Impact & UV Resistance
30X stronger than acrylic – withstands drops, vibrations, and extreme weather.
UV-stabilized for long-term outdoor use (no yellowing).
  • Optical Clarity (≥90% Light Transmission)
Ideal for displays, lenses, and transparent components.
 

Key Benefits

  • Cost-Effective Complex Shapes
Replace expensive injection molding with low-cost compression molding
500-unit MOQs (vs. 10k+ for injection molding) – perfect for prototypes & small batches
  • Durability in Demanding Environments
Automotive: Scratch-resistant interior trims, glossy black pillars, EV battery covers
Outdoor Gear: Self-cleaning camera housings, UV-resistant signage, ATV windshields
  • Faster Production Cycles
72-hour rapid tooling (vs. 4–8 weeks for steel molds)
Enables quick design iterations and market testing
  • Aesthetic & Functional Versatility
Available in clear, tinted, or textured finishes
Combines luxury aesthetics with industrial-grade toughness

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheets

Thermoforming Anti-Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet – Compatible and Incompatible Processing Technologies:

1. Thermoforming 
- Suitable Processes: Vacuum forming, pressure forming, and compression molding are applicable.
2. CNC Machining
- Suitable Processes: Milling, cutting, and drilling are the appropriate processes.
3. Laser Cutting/Engraving
- Suitable Processes: CO₂ laser cutting and UV laser engraving are the suitable operations.
4. Cold Bending
- Suitable Processes: Mechanical bending and roll bending are the available processes.
5. Bonding & Assembly
- Suitable Processes: UV adhesive bonding, solvent bonding, and mechanical fastening are the applicable methods.

Not Recommended Processes
❌ Injection Molding: This product is provided in sheet form. Reprocessing it into pellets would reduce the coating performance.
❌ Blow Molding: It is not a suitable process for this product. suitable for hollow products and cannot maintain surface hardness.

Process Selection Guide
Small-batch complex shapes → Thermoforming (preferred)
High-precision parts → CNC + laser cutting
Rapid prototyping → Cold bending + bonding
 

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheets Technical Data

Test Item(s) Limit Unit(s) MDL A1
Lead  (Pb) 1000 mg/kg 2 ND
Mercury(Hg) 1000 mg/kg 2 ND
Cadmium(Cd) 100 mg/kg 2 ND
Hexavaent Chromium(Cr(VI) 1000 mg/kg 8 ND
Polybrominated biphenyls(PBB) 1000 mg/kg   ND
Monobrominated biphenyl (MonoBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Dibrominated biphenyl(DiBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tribrominated biphenyl(TriBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tetrabrominated bipheny(TetraBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Pentabrominated biphenyl (PentaBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Hexabrominated biphenyl (HexaBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Heptabrominated biphenyl (HeptaBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Octabrominated biphenyl(OctaBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Nonabrominated biphenyl (NonaBB)   mg/kg 25 ND
Decabrominated biphenyl (DecaBB) - mg/kg 25 ND
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers(PBDE) 1000 mg/kg   ND
Monobrominated diphenyl ether(MonoBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Dibrominated diphenyl ether(DiBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tribrominated diphenyl ether(TriBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Tetrabrominated diphenyl ether(TetraBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Pentabrominated diphenyl ether(PentaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Hexabrominated diphenyl ether(HexaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Heptabrominated diphenyl ether(HeptaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND
Octabrominated diphenyl ether(OctaBDE)   mg/kg 25 ND

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheets Specifications

  • Available thickness range: 1mm-25mm for extruded sheets, 30mm to over 100mm for cast sheets
  • Sheet dimensions: 1220x2440mm, 1830x2440mm, 2050x3050mm or customize
  • Weight: Density 1.2kg/sqm, half weight of glass.

Comparison with Other Materials

A detailed comparison helps in choosing the right material:
 
  • Glass: Polycarbonate is stronger, lighter, and more impact-resistant, but more expensive and less scratch-resistant. Glass breaks suddenly, while polycarbonate stretches, reducing shatter risk.
  • Acrylic Sheets: Acrylic has better scratch resistance and clarity but lower impact resistance. Polycarbonate wins in strength and temperature resistance, with acrylic being cheaper but less durable.
  • Other Plastics: PVC or PET lack the same transparency and strength combination, making polycarbonate stand out, as noted in general plastic comparisons.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheets Applications Across Industries

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process involves extrusion, where polycarbonate resin is melted and forced through a die to form sheets of desired thickness. The sheet is then cooled and cut to size, ensuring uniformity and consistent properties.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Installation and Maintenance

Installation involves cutting with standard tools like saws or routers, and drilling with sharp bits for plastic. Maintenance includes cleaning with mild detergents, avoiding abrasives, and polishing to restore clarity if scratched, as per general installation guides from ANDISCO Sheet Installation .

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Environmental Impact

Polycarbonate is recyclable, with some sheets made from recycled materials, supporting sustainability. This was highlighted in environmental discussions from Simply Plastics, emphasizing their eco-friendly potential.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Future Trends

Ongoing research aims to improve UV resistance and add antimicrobial properties, with potential new applications in construction and personal protective equipment.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet Safety Considerations

Handle carefully to avoid scratches, wear protective gear like gloves and eye protection during cutting or drilling. While fire-resistant with a UL94 V-2 rating, follow safety protocols.

Thermoforming Anti Scratch Polycarbonate Sheet FAQ

  • 1. How does anti static sheet work?

    A There are three key proterties to achieve anti static effect as below :
    • Conductive Additives: Embedded materials (e.g., carbon) create a conductive network within the PC matrix.

    • Surface Chemistry: Some versions use permanent anti-static agents that migrate to the surface, attracting moisture from the air. This thin layer of moisture allows charges to bleed off slowly and safely.

    • Result: Static charges don't accumulate; they flow across the surface and safely dissipate to ground (often via contact with grounded surfaces or operators).

  • 2. Is Pre-Processing Required for polycarbonate Materials?

    A

    Yes. PC is hygroscopic and must be dried at 120-130°C for 3-4 hours (moisture content <0.02%).

    Our Advantage: Pre-dried customized materials available with guaranteed moisture compliance, reducing your production energy costs.

  • 3. Recommended Processing Methods & Applications

    A

    Compatible with injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and thermoforming. Key applications include:

    • Electronics: Flame-retardant PC smartphone housings (UL94 V-0 certified)

    • Automotive: High-impact PC headlight covers (ISO 9001/IATF 16949 compliant)

    • Optics: Optical-grade PC lenses (>90% light transmission)

      Success Stories: Explore 500+ global client cases in our [Product Gallery].

  • 4. How to Eliminate Silver Streaks/Bubbles?

    A
    • Adopt our Smart Drying System (inline humidity monitoring + auto-alert)

    • Free access to Process Parameter Kits with verified settings:

      • Melt temp: 280-320°C

      • Mold temp: 80-120°C

  • 5. Critical Mold Design Guidelines

    A
    • Runner optimization: Leverage our MoldFlow Simulation Service (30% fewer trial cycles)

    • Venting design: 0.02-0.03mm depth (Free DFM analysis report included)

  • 6. Enhancing Long-Term Product Stability

    A
    • Post-Processing Solutions:

      • Annealing: 110-130°C/1-4hrs (Vacuum annealing equipment optional)

      • Surface coating: Custom AR/Anti-glazing treatments

  • 7. Balancing Sustainability & Cost-Efficiency

    A
    • Recycled PC Solutions: 30% post-industrial regrind blends (GRS-certified)
      Energy-Saving Tech: Low-Temp/High-Pressure Molding Packages (15-20% energy reduction)

  • 8. How to Achieve Enhanced Surface Hardness for polycarbonate Components?

    A

    PC offers excellent toughness but can be surface-hardened for demanding applications. Our advanced solutions include:

    Method 1: Coating Technologies

    • Andisco Hard Coat (AHC):

      • Scratch resistance up to 6H pencil hardness for acrylic and HB for polycarbonate

      • Ideal for touchscreens & automotive interiors

      • Our Service: In-line coating equipment integration support

    • Anti-Reflective (AR) Nano-Coatings:

      • Reduce surface reflectance to <1% while improving hardness

      • Critical for optical lenses & display covers

    Method 2: Chemical Strengthening

    • Solvent-Induced Crystallization:

      • Increases surface hardness by 40% via controlled solvent exposure

      • Maintains 90% light transmission

      • Case Study: Used in aviation window panels (MIL-STD-810G compliant)

    Method 3: Plasma Treatment

    • Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) Deposition:

      • Achieves 15-20 GPa nano-hardness

      • Perfect for medical devices requiring sterilization resistance

  • 9. Can Polycarbonate Be Combined with Metals for Hybrid Hardened Structures?

    A

    Yes. Our Metal-PC Direct Bonding Technology enables:

    • Overmolding:Aluminum/PC composite parts with peel strength >8 MPa

    • Laser Welding:Stainless steel reinforcement for load-bearing joints

    • Benefits

      • 50% weight reduction vs. all-metal parts

      • IP67 sealing without adhesives

  • 10. Enhanced Processing Section

    A

    Advanced Hardening Post-Processing

    • Step 1:Precision Annealing

      • Vacuum-controlled cycles (120°C/2hr) to eliminate internal stress

    • Step 2:Surface Activation

      • Corona/Plasma pretreatment (Dyne level >54)

    • Step 3:Coating Application

      • Custom thickness 5-50μm (Optical/EMI shielding dual-functional options)

    Turnkey Service: From design to hardened components – we manage the entire value chain.

    This comprehensive survey ensures all aspects are covered, providing a complete resource for understanding clear polycarbonate sheets.

  • 11. Can Polycarbonate Be Precision-Machined? Key Considerations

    A

    PC excels in CNC machining for prototyping and low-volume production. Achieve <0.01mm tolerances with our guidelines:

    Tooling Selection

    • Cutting Tools:

      • Carbide end mills with polished flutes (15° helix angle)

      • Diamond-coated drills for hole consistency (Aerospace Standard AS9100 compliant)

    • Geometry:

      • 2-flute for roughing (chip clearance optimization)

      • 4-flute for finishing (Ra <0.8μm achievable)

    Machining Parameters

    Operation Speed (SFM) Feed (mm/tooth) Depth of Cut (mm)
    Milling 300-500 0.05-0.15 ≤2×tool diameter
    Drilling 200-400 0.03-0.08 Peck drilling cycle
    Engraving 600-800 0.01-0.03 0.1-0.3

    Pro Tip: Use compressed air cooling (no lubricants) to prevent stress cracking.

  • 12. Preventing Machining-Induced Defects

    A

    Challenge 1: Edge Chipping

    • Solution:

      • Pre-heat material to 80-90°C (thermal stabilization)

      • Climb milling strategy with ≤5% stepover

    Challenge 2: Surface Melting

    • Solution:

      • High-speed spindle (≥20,000 RPM) + trochoidal tool paths

      • Our Cryo-Machining System: Liquid CO₂ cooling (-78°C)

    Challenge 3: Stress Whitening

    • Post-Process: Flame polishing (propane torch, 3s exposure @400°C)

  • 13. Advanced Hybrid Machining Solutions

    A

    Laser-Assisted CNC

    • Benefits:

      • 60% faster feed rates on >10mm thick PC sheets

      • Burr-free cutting (medical implant grade finish)

    Our Capability: Provide fibre laser integrated machine tool rental service.

    Ultrasonic Vibration Machining

    Ideal for microfluidic channel fabrication:

    • Minimum feature size: 50μm

    • Wall roughness: Ra 0.2μm

    Why Partner With Us for PC Machining?

    • ✅ Digital Twin Service: Upload CAD files for instant machining simulation

    • ✅ Material-Cutting Tool Kits: Pre-tested tool + parameter bundles

    • ✅ Rapid Turnaround: 48-hour machined sample service (5-axis capability)

    What Processing Your Team Supply?

    We are a leading manufacturer specializing in precision processing of engineering plastics.Our services cover:

    • ✅ Custom Sheet Cutting & Fabrication

    • ✅ CNC Machining & Drilling

    • ✅ Thermoforming & Vacuum Forming

    • ✅ Enhancement Surface Coating 

    • ✅ OEM Plastic Parts Production

    We deliver durable, lightweight, and impact-resistant components for industries like automotive, signage, electronics, and construction. Request a quote for tailored plastic solutions!

Quick Quote

Polymer Integrated Solutions

At ANDISCO, we’re not just committed to providing high quality eye and face protection products. We’re also dedicated to leveraging our know-how, rich industry experience, and outsourcing capabilities to help solve your problems.
As a vertically integrated manufacturer, we control the entire process from proprietary material formulation to finished product assembly, offering tailored, high-performance polycarbonate and acrylic products.

Contact Us

Add: 1st Floor, Workshop 2, No.15, ChunshanRoad, Chunjiang Street,  Xinbei District, Jiangsu Province
Tel: +86-156 51226398
Email: 
Sales Service: andisco001@esdacrylic.com
Technical Support: info@polyteching.com
Mobile: +86-138 01503869
© COPYRIGHT 2025 JIANGSU ANDISCO NEW MATERIAL CO., LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.