How Much Does Polycarbonate Cost?

How much does polycarbonate cost? This is a common question for those who are trying to find the right material for their project. Polycarbonate is a type of plastic that is durable, lightweight, and scratch-resistant. It is commonly used in applications such as automotive parts, electronic components, and bulletproof glass. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about polycarbonate cost, including how it is priced, factors that influence the cost, and the average cost of polycarbonate sheets.

How is polycarbonate priced?

Polycarbonate is priced per square foot or per unit depending on the application and the supplier. Most suppliers of polycarbonate sheets sell them in standard sizes, such as 4'' x 8'' or 4'' x 10'', or in custom sizes, which may be more expensive. The price of polycarbonate also varies depending on the thickness of the sheet. Thicker sheets will cost more than thinner ones due to the increased amount of material required to manufacture them.

Factors that influence the cost of polycarbonate

There are several factors that can influence the cost of polycarbonate sheets. These include:

1. The type of polycarbonate - There are different types of polycarbonate sheets, including clear, colored, and textured. Each type has a different cost due to the additional processing required to create it.

2. Sheet thickness - The thicker the sheet, the more expensive it will be due to the increased amount of material required to manufacture it.

3. Sheet size - Polycarbonate sheets are available in standard sizes or can be custom cut to size. Custom cutting can be more expensive than purchasing a standard size sheet.

4. Supplier - The price of polycarbonate can vary depending on the supplier. Comparing prices from different suppliers can help you find the best deal.

5. Quantity - Purchasing a larger quantity of polycarbonate sheets can lead to lower per-unit prices due to bulk discounts.

Average cost of polycarbonate sheets

The cost of polycarbonate varies depending on the factors listed above. On average, a 4'' x 8'' polycarbonate sheet with a thickness of 1/8" can cost anywhere from $30-$60. Thicker sheets, such as those with a thickness of 1/4" or 3/8", can cost anywhere from $60-$100 per sheet. Custom-cut or speciality polycarbonate sheets can cost even more.

Polycarbonate is not only sold in sheet form, but it is also sold in other forms such as tubes and rods. The average cost of polycarbonate tubes and rods is $10-$20 per foot depending on the thickness and diameter.

Conclusion

Polycarbonate is a versatile and durable material that is used in a wide range of applications. When considering the cost of polycarbonate, it is important to consider the factors that influence the price, such as the type of polycarbonate, the thickness, size, supplier, and quantity. On average, polycarbonate sheets can cost anywhere from $30-$100 per sheet depending on the factors listed above. By understanding the cost of polycarbonate and the factors that influence it, you can make an informed decision when choosing this material for your project.