Knowing how to handle the polycarbonate sheets is necessary for both the polycarbonate supplier and the consumer of goods. After all, both do not want damaged goods because of unnecessary handling. While it is usually overlooked, the effects of it can be huge and detrimental. Follow the mnemonic ABCDE in handling polycarbonate sheets to improve efficiency, avoid accidents, and reduce costs due to product damages.
Avoid directly touching the sheets. Use soft cloth gloves when handling because the sheets are prone to scratches, hand smudges, and abrasion. Do not remove the UV protection film before installation. Remember not to prolong it directly under the sun, or the film may be hard to remove. Damaging the polycarbonate means deterioration from its looks and decreasing its effectiveness.
Beware of accidentally folding the sheets when handling. While polycarbonate sheets have high impact resistance, prolonged stress can lead to crazing or cracking. They do not shatter, but when the overhangs are placed under a heavy object without support, damages can occur. Moreover, there is a recommended bending radius for each type (solid polycarbonate, twin wall polycarbonate, corrugated polycarbonate sheet, multi wall polycarbonate). Without knowing this information, you may unconsciously cause damage during handling.
Carry the sheets instead of dragging it, to avoid unnecessary scratches. Pick-up and carry the sheet to avoid damaging the edges. Do not drag along rough surfaces and uneven platforms. Some polycarbonate sheets may require two or more people to carry.
Do not walk directly on the polycarbonate sheets unless it is well supported underneath. The polycarbonate is a suitable application for skylight roofing, not to support a person’s weight. Since it is inevitable during installation, step on the frames, supports, and other structures underneath to keep from directly stepping on it. Walking directly on the polycarbonate roof poses a lot of risks. You may fall since it’s slippery, and you may damage the sheet.
Elevate the polycarbonate sheets on a flat pallet. If you need to move the sheets from one place to another, put them on pallets, even the rolled polycarbonate sheets. The dimensions of the pallets should be slightly larger than the sheet placed at the bottom. Stack the sheets in this order: largest and longest sheets at the bottom, smallest and shortest at the topmost part. Remember not to stack too high.
After learning the ABCDEs of handling polycarbonate sheets, do not forget to F: Follow the guidelines stated above. Material handling is an important aspect in production, manufacture, and logistics. Even if you are the end user, it is also important to remember the mnemonic so the polycarbonate sheet can remain in its best condition up until its installation. If you have other questions regarding your application, contact one of the trusted suppliers of polycarbonate roof in the Philippines.
This is part 2 of the series ABCDE of Polycarbonate Sheets. Click here to read the previous article, “The ABCDE of Storing Polycarbonate Sheets”.