Re: polycarbonate windows, further questions

--- In bolger@y..., dbaldnz@y... wrote:

> Interested to see the posts on thickness required for polycarb
> windows. I am converting Micro Oink to a Navigator, and sounds

like

> 6mm polycarb would do the job, but-
>
> 1. I have also heard polycarb is much softer (flexible) than

acrylic

> etc, and though it will not break, could 6mm be "uncomfortably"
> flexible? Largest windows are nearly 3'x2'.
>

Doubt it would be to flexible. Especialy if there is even the
slightest amount of curve in the window. The sample piece I have is
pretty stiff. I'd say stiffer than the same thickness of ply.

> 2. How do you cut it? Fine jigsaw?
>

Woodworking tools, carbide bits preferred.

> 3. When you drill holes through acrylic, you have to use a slow
> speed, or the heat generated cracks the acrylic. Is polycarbonate
> similar?
>

Very similar melting points.

> I would be grateful for any tips, because I imagine this stuff is
> expensive.
>
> DonB

Interested to see the posts on thickness required for polycarb
windows. I am converting Micro Oink to a Navigator, and sounds like
6mm polycarb would do the job, but-

1. I have also heard polycarb is much softer (flexible) than acrylic
etc, and though it will not break, could 6mm be "uncomfortably"
flexible? Largest windows are nearly 3'x2'.

2. How do you cut it? Fine jigsaw?

3. When you drill holes through acrylic, you have to use a slow
speed, or the heat generated cracks the acrylic. Is polycarbonate
similar?

I would be grateful for any tips, because I imagine this stuff is
expensive.

DonB