Frequently Asked Questions

The term Polycarbonate describes a polymer which is composed of many (“poly”) identical units of bisphenol A connected by carbonate-linkages in its backbone chain. Chemically, a carbonate group is a di-ester of carbonic acid, the result of which is a polymeric chain. Polycarbonate is transformed into the required shape by melting it and forcing it under pressure into a mould or die. There are two dominant processes involved in making products from polycarbonate:

Extrusion : The polymer melt is continuously pressed through an orifice called a “die”, which gives the molten polymer its final shape. This process makes it possible to create infinitely long pipes, profiles or sheets.

The correct thickness will be determined by your application and loading requirements. Width, length, and structure of panel all impact loads and bending capabilities. Please refer to loading charts in the PoliCarb® , arcoPlus®  and PoliComp® sections of the website.

Gallina’s PoliCarb®, arcoPlus® and PoliComp® products are all UV-coated on at least one side to prevent the sun’s harmful UV rays from damaging or discoloring our polycarbonate sheets and panels. See our 10 year warranty for more details.

One of the unique characteristics of polycarbonate that makes it a preferred material over glass is that it can be cold bent for arched applications. Panel thickness and structure design will impact the extent of radius bending.

What do I clean Gallina’s PoliCarb® and arcoPlus® panels with?

Use a circular saw with plywood blade or jig saw with fine tooth blade. This produces clean, even cut. Cut sheet before taking off film, or static charge will attract fine chips to channels. Remove any fine shavings or chips prior to installation. Condensation moving through layers continues cleaning channels, but get clean as possible. Leave film on sheet until ready to install, remove in an area free from dust. Thinner sheets may be cut with a utility knife using a clamp and secured straight edge to ensure an accurate, straight cut.

Use a circular saw with plywood blade or jig saw with fine tooth blade. This produces clean, even cut. Cut sheet before taking off film, or static charge will attract fine chips to channels. Remove any fine shavings or chips prior to installation. Condensation moving through layers continues cleaning channels, but get clean as possible. Leave film on sheet until ready to install, remove in an area free from dust. Thinner sheets may be cut with a utility knife using a clamp and secured straight edge to ensure an accurate, straight cut.

It is recommended that polycarbonate be used on slopes no less than 5 degrees.

Yes, Gallina has a trained staff and resident architect available to work with you and your plans to make recommendations for all your polycarbonate building needs. We are also supported by our other manufacturing facilities and their staffs to ensure that all your questions are answered.