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Forming, Fabrication and Bonding
Component Geometry
Sharp corners and notches in thermoplastic components assist in the initiation and propagation of cracks, particularly if a component is under stress. Creases, grooves and sharp bends also form potential weaknesses. Component shapes should exclude such features; all internal and external corners or changes in direction should follow a smooth radiused profile.
Where designs involve hot bending of sheets, radii should ideally be not less than two and a half times the sheet thickness.
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Poor geometry - sharp corners,
deep notches, thin sections |
Good geometry - smooth corners
and contours, thick sections. |
Panel Orientation
Panel orientation should be considered when mounting, for example, rectangular panels by only one short edge in external applications. Extruded materials generally have fractionally greater flexural strength, and therefore resistance to bending, in the direction of extrusion. The protective film has the brand running across the direction of extrusion, providing ease of identification for correct cutting of panels for such applications.
Foamalux panel with branded film.
Extrusion Direction
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