Polycarbonate, which has been widely used in our life lately, is different from other building materials. There are a number of features that must be considered when working with this material. Polycarbonate is made of durable plastic, but at the same time it remains fragile. The fastening process is affected by such a feature as a high coefficient of thermal expansion (reaches 1-1.5%). Knowing these distinguishing features, manufacturers propose to use special thermowells for polycarbonate for fasteners. Their use helps to carry out installation work efficiently, without damaging the base material. This type of fastening can last a long time.
The concept of thermowells for polycarbonate
A thermal washer is a part used to pinpoint sheets to a frame made of various materials (wood, metal, plastic, and others). Their characteristics and method of use are developed taking into account the features of polycarbonate described above. Such thermowells for cellular polycarbonate are also suitable . Their structure takes into account the cellular structure of this material.
The thermal washer for attaching polycarbonate consists of several parts, such as:
- The sealing ring, which provides a tight fit of materials, sealing the connection, prevents the penetration of moisture into the polymer and the entire structure as a whole.
- A cap that closes the self-tapping screw head against moisture. Gives the design a more attractive appearance.
Washers are made with various sizes. The diameter of the cap and the diameter of the legs are the same. Changes the length, which can be in the range of 4-15 mm and above. The size must be selected so that the leg of the thermowasher is the same size with the thickness of the polymer. This rule must be followed for cast and cellular polycarbonate.
Tasks Performed
Thermowells for polycarbonate perform a number of functions, such as:
- Fastening polycarbonate sheets to the structure.
- Protection of attachment points against moisture and debris.
- Overlap the bridges of cold.
- Allow the sheets minor shifts as a result of thermal expansion (narrowing).
Varieties
Thermowells for polycarbonate (photo can be seen in this article) can be made of various materials. Depending on this, several types of washers are distinguished:
- Polypropylene The main advantage is a variety of colors, including transparent. Another plus is the low cost. The height of the washer is 12 mm, its diameter is 35 mm. Allows the use of 6 mm thick self-tapping screws. Of the shortcomings - are exposed to sunlight. As a result, the mount weakens, the polycarbonate sheet vibrates and collapses. Service life does not exceed 3 years. It is recommended to be used indoors or in shady places.
- Polycarbonate Such thermowells are suitable for cellular polycarbonate having cells. They have a number of advantages. They are practically inferior in strength to steel. Aesthetically attractive, do not stand out from the overall picture. The connection is tight and strong, but not damaging the base material. Withstand temperature extremes. Not exposed to sunlight. Service life is up to 20 years.
- Metal made of stainless steel. Used in large areas and in areas with strong winds. The thickness of the steel washer is 0.8 mm, the diameter is 33 mm. Hole for self-tapping screw 6 mm. The main characteristics are strength, elasticity. The term of operation is 50 years. To increase strength and reliability, it is recommended to use thermowells with an interval of 25-30 cm.
Mounting method
The thermal washer must be installed exactly at right angles. This provides a strong and tight connection.
For this, a polycarbonate sheet must be drilled strictly at right angles. Moreover, the diameter of the hole should be a couple of millimeters larger than the diameter of the legs of the screw. Drill at a distance of at least 4 cm from the edge. For cellular polycarbonate, holes are made between the ribs.
The self-tapping screw is screwed tightly so that the seal fits well on the surface of the polycarbonate. But indentation should not be allowed. To prevent the drill head from jumping off and breaking through the sheet, it is recommended to use wood drills.
Thermowells are screwed in at intervals of 25-70 cm, depending on the design.