Polycarbonate today is used in a variety of fields - construction, medicine, in the production of electronics and household appliances. Let's find out what this material is like and how its types differ, what are its advantages and disadvantages. Let's look at how to connect polycarbonate with a profile joint and what type of joining it is, and find out which glue is best to use when working.
Polycarbonate greenhouse Source kinstacdn.com
Polycarbonate, its types and advantages
Polycarbonate is a modern material that is often used instead of iron, glass or plastic. The material is made from polycarbonate granules, from which slabs are smelted. The latter, depending on their properties, are used in construction, medicine, and in the production of household appliances and electronics. In home construction, greenhouses and greenhouses are often made from it, for which polycarbonate is connected to each other.
There are several types of polycarbonate:
- According to the “honeycomb” shape (rectangular, triangular, honeycomb, cruciform);
- By color (colorless and colored);
- By the number of layers (two-layer, three-layer, multi-layer);
- According to the presence of ultraviolet protection (without protection, with protection on one or both sides of the sheet).
Polycarbonate has several important advantages. It is durable (10 times stronger than acrylic and 100 times stronger than glass), but flexible and bends easily. It can withstand temperatures from -40 to +120 degrees, but does not burn well. It is impact-resistant and lightweight, transmits light well and retains heat, and does not fade over time. The material itself is environmentally friendly, not afraid of water and rust.
Cellular polycarbonate Source domteplic.by
Before deciding how to join polycarbonate together, it is worth understanding its disadvantages. The last few:
- Polycarbonate is easy to scratch;
- It is destroyed by exposure to UV rays if protection is not provided;
- When exposed to heat, the material expands and contracts when cold.
When using polycarbonate outdoors, these features must be taken into account, for example, leaving a thermal gap between the sheets.
What it is?
First, let's figure out what it is - a docking or connecting profile. It's simple - this element is a long plastic strip with a certain structure inside (most often H-shaped). Intended for joining or connecting two sheets of cellular polycarbonate both in greenhouses and on various roofs, partitions, etc.
Docking profile for polycarbonate
The purposes of using a profile for polycarbonate are given below.
- Aesthetics . The joints between two polycarbonate sheets look neater and more beautiful if covered with a profile. In addition, if you pay attention to a polycarbonate roof that was joined without using a profile, you can see debris and dirt right inside the honeycombs - hollow channels that form in the structure of the material. And this, you see, significantly spoils the appearance. And if the dirt from the outside is easy to wash off with plain water, then from the inside it is no longer so easy to remove. The connecting (as well as the end) profile will help keep the inside of the polycarbonate clean.
Consequences of neglecting the docking profile
- Better sealing . The joining profile allows you to connect two sheets of polycarbonate without gaps or cracks. At the same time, it will hold them securely and firmly. With the help of this element, the sheets become like a single roof or wall. At the same time, there are types of profiles that will allow you to join corner parts.
Creating an optimal microclimate in a polycarbonate greenhouse
The joining profile is usually made of a transparent material - polycarbonate, which allows it to be used for both transparent and translucent structures that must be well lit from the inside. This element allows the roof or wall to retain its ability to transmit light as much as possible. It can also be made of aluminum.
Profile for polycarbonate clamping/docking, aluminum, AD 53-10
On a note! The joining profile can be made in various color variations - exactly the same as the polycarbonate itself. Most often in stores you can see yellow, green, transparent profiles.
You also don't have to worry about UV protection. The joining profiles are protected against harmful radiation - exactly the same as on polycarbonate sheets. They are convenient to use not only for double- and single-slope greenhouses, but also for arched and lancet ones. The fact is that the joining profiles bend perfectly within the permissible radius and they can be used to join two pieces of material on these types of structures.
Profiles for fastening cellular polycarbonate
Let us list the main advantages of using joining profiles.
- Easy to install . Usually, no one encounters any difficulties during the installation of this element.
- Easy dismantling . If necessary, the connecting profile can be quickly untwisted and removed. It will also make it easier to replace one of the polycarbonate sheets if necessary.
- Tightness . Due to the tight fit of the profile to the polycarbonate sheets, a roof mounted in this way will not leak.
- Beautiful appearance . A roof or wall using a joining profile looks much nicer and neater than without it.
One-piece polycarbonate profile
Covering the canopy with polycarbonate using a joining profile
Prices for connecting profiles for polycarbonate
connection profile for polycarbonate
Mounting features
Installation of polycarbonate is not difficult and can be easily done independently, without special training. You can cut the sheets with a circular saw or a hacksaw. During installation, the main thing is that dirt and dust do not get inside the honeycomb.
The UV protected side should be on the outside. When installing, the stiffeners must run vertically or obliquely so that moisture does not accumulate inside. If you need to bend the sheet, this must be done parallel to the stiffeners.
To clean polycarbonate, use a mild soap solution. Strong acids, acetone, solvents, as well as scrapers, blades and other sharp objects should not be used.
The sheets can be connected using a detachable or one-piece profile, or using glue.
Aluminum profile Source kinplast.ru
Profile docking
When choosing how to connect polycarbonate to each other, they most often stop at profile joining. According to their characteristics, profiles can be detachable or non-detachable. The first ones can be used several times; they are recommended to be used if the structure is to be moved or disassembled.
One-piece profiles are made only from plastic. They are often cheaper, in addition, their thickness is less than that of removable ones, which makes the surface less convex and the joints are almost invisible. However, working with a one-piece profile is more difficult, since both sheets must be inserted correctly the first time. In addition, it is often impossible to achieve complete sealing of the joint.
Detachable profiles are more expensive and are made from plastic and aluminum. They consist of a base and a “lid”, both parts are secured with a special fastener. Detachable profiles are more expensive, but more convenient to install and more functional. Aluminum profiles will add strength to the structure and can partially take on the role of the frame.
Split profile Source prom.st
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in finishing materials and related work
The connection of polycarbonate with a profile detachable joint is carried out in several steps:
- In one of the profile halves (base), holes for self-tapping screws are drilled in the center. The distance between them should be approximately 30 cm. It is recommended to use metal screws for aluminum, and thermal washers for plastic.
- The base is secured to the frame with self-tapping screws. It is necessary to firmly fix the profile and check that it stands level, without distortions. The self-tapping screw should go into the sheathing at least 0.5 cm.
- Polycarbonate sheets are inserted into the base from the sides. They should protrude slightly above the end of the frame; there should be about a 4 mm gap between them.
- The second part of the profile – the “lid” – is placed on top. Pressing to close along the entire length. It is necessary to press with moderate force so that the profile does not deteriorate.
- If necessary, polycarbonate sheets are protected with end profiles or additionally secured to the frame.
Installation of one-piece profiles follows the same principle.
Preparing polycarbonate for joining
Before installing polycarbonate, it is necessary to carry out a number of preparatory measures:
- cut sheets of plastic according to the dimensions of a specific structure, using a hacksaw or a circular plate for this purpose;
- protect the ends of the transparent cellular material with perforated self-adhesive tape to prevent dust, moisture and insects from entering the channels between the partitions;
- Apply continuous sealing tape to the top edge.
When arranging a greenhouse complex, canopy or canopy with monolithic polycarbonate, there is no need to carry out preparatory measures. Having decided on the method of connecting polycarbonate, it is necessary to calculate all the accompanying materials: plates, profile (connecting linear, corner, end), fasteners.
Briefly about the main thing
Among modern building materials, polycarbonate occupies a special place. It is used to replace iron, plastic and glass. The material is durable and flexible, making it easy to work with even for novice craftsmen.
Profiles are most often used to fasten polycarbonate. They allow you to firmly connect sheets, avoiding cracks and leaks.
Profiles are made of aluminum and plastic. They come in removable types (they can be removed and reused) and non-detachable types (they can only be used once). The profiles are attached to the frame using self-tapping screws, then sheets are inserted into them on both sides and “closed” from above.
Polycarbonate can be joined using glue. This will ensure a smooth connection. When choosing an adhesive, it is important that it does not contain alkali or solvents.
Tips and tricks
To prevent polycarbonate sheets from deforming under the influence of temperature changes, it is necessary to leave a gap between them and the profile wall of at least 4 mm. The quality of the entire constructed structure is especially affected not only by the choice of connection method, but also by the implementation of preparatory measures. Also, if it is necessary to cut plastic, you should use a circular saw with a stop and fine teeth - this way you will be able to achieve an even cut. Chips must be removed without fail, otherwise the quality of the connection between the plates will suffer.
Working with a canopy
At first glance, working with polycarbonate canopies is difficult, because you have to deal with different shapes, types and types of these structures. In reality, there are no particular difficulties, because this material has excellent ductility. It is not difficult to bend polycarbonate in the desired way, the main thing is to preheat it. A cold sheet should not be bent; it can easily become deformed and break.
The first step is to build a metal frame that will serve as a support and foundation for the entire structure. There is no fundamental difference whether this frame is assembled from component parts or purchased ready-made; in the latter case, the preparatory stage is even more simplified.
To directly install the canopy, wooden support slings are required. They are laid at the same distance from each other to create a symmetrical pattern. The sheets are fastened to the slings using self-tapping screws, after which the joints are placed and secured, for which complete parts are used.
As you can see, the installation of polycarbonate sheets is not particularly difficult; the main thing is to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations and carry out the installation in accordance with all existing rules.
Advantages of polycarbonate
Firstly, polycarbonate is transparent, so it can replace glass. It is much lighter than glass, and its strength is 50 times higher, which is why its installation will stop much easier.
Polycarbonate is practically not afraid of all kinds of chemicals, which increases its durability and maintains a presentable appearance for a long time. One of the important properties of cellular polycarbonate is that it can be used as an excellent protective agent against ultraviolet radiation. The resistance of this material to high temperatures is so great that it can be used in regions with any climate. And thanks to the special structure and shape of the sheets, polycarbonate becomes an excellent heat and sound insulating, as well as moisture-proof material.
One-piece
Polycarbonate panels are inserted into the profile grooves located on the sides of the connecting piece. Self-tapping screws are screwed in along the central channel (between the walls). In this case, you need to take into account the movement due to temperature changes, and leave a gap between the end and the wall of about 3mm.
Using a one-piece profile, polymer panels are easily joined.
Instructions for fastening polycarbonate sheets with profile elements:
- Insert the sheet with the end part into the outer connecting profile;
- Also put a similar product on the opposite end;
- Check the correct fit of the panel and connectors to the frame;
- Securely secure the profile;
- Insert the end of the next sheet on the other (free) side of the aluminum or plastic joining profile for polycarbonate;
- Continue covering the frame in the same way;
- The panels themselves are additionally screwed to the base using self-tapping screws with thermal washers.
Additional steps and use of punched paper tape:
- First you need to firmly fix the upper edge of the profile;
- Provide the edges of the panel with an end profile and perforated tape;
- Drill holes at the end of the connector to allow condensate moisture to escape;
- Before installation, the end of the sheet should be sealed with regular tape;
- To make moving easier, polycarbonate can be lubricated with machine oil.
Varieties
It is possible to join polycarbonate sheets using special profiles:
- One-piece;
- Detachable;
- Corner products.
Aluminum connecting profile for polycarbonate, as well as products made from polymer material, are the most important components when cladding structures.
Of course, profiles alone will not do; you will need self-tapping screws and thermal washers. But then, there is no need for any special tool.
It is enough to have a screwdriver, but this is a last resort, and you can carry out installation work with a screwdriver with a suitable bit. For cutting you will need a saw with a fine tooth; for the accompanying work you can get by with the tools available on the farm.
What tools and materials are needed?
As already mentioned, a circular saw, hacksaw or metal saw is suitable for cutting sheets into pieces of the required size. Further joining of polycarbonate can be done with factory-made profile fasteners. The number of such fasteners will depend on the surface area of the polycarbonate being laid. Do not forget about skates, corners, bends and other structural elements.
No special professional tools are required to work with polycarbonate. It is enough to use a regular drill, hammer, screwdriver or screwdriver. Please note that in order to avoid damage to the material when connecting polycarbonate sheets to each other, it is advisable to perform the work on a large flat surface. The use of split-type profiles involves the use of a flat wooden plank.
