Ultradog MN

Well-known Member
Location
Twin Cities
A guy can get lost looking for an answer on google...
How resistant is Lexan plastic to UV rays?
I had to replace the plastic covers on the roof vents on my camper this weekend.
One was completely shot and leaking. Another was about ready to start leaking.
I removed the old plastic and fashioned new Lexan covers for them.
The old plastic lasted for 39 years.
Just wondering how long a guy can expect this stuff to last.
Thanks

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Depends on what type you bought. Apparently there are different compounds available.

Found this on Wikipedia:

Standard Polycarbonate resins are not suitable for long term exposure to UV radiation. To overcome this the primary resin can have UV Stabilisers added. These grades are sold as UV Stabilised Polycarbonate to Injection Moulding and Extrusion companies. Other applications including Polycarbonate sheet may have the anti-UV layer added as a special coating or a coextrusion for enhanced weathering resistance.
 
Hello ultradog MN,

It will last a LONG time. Certainly a lot longer then regular plastic. Old telephone boots glass was replaced with 1/4in of that stuff.

Guido.
 
You got it. I have ten thousand pounds of polycarbonate material in my warehouse. Black polycarbonate or clear glass replacement polycarbonate would be the best choice of polycarbonate. Black polycarbonate was used for auto side mirror housings and then painted with the car colors. ABS would be the best choice for resistance to UV rays.
 
Hey Udog.

Lexan, or by its generic name polycarbonate is better known for its impact resistance than for its resistance to UV rays.

It tends to yellow in its clear form however white translucent poly is very resistant to sunlight and as a bonus is virtually unbreakable.

Brad
 
replaced the 14x14 roof vent on my 1968 Yellowstone today, probably original. all of $15.00 @ my local dealer. sure can't do much fabing with a price like that.
 
For the camper we had I installed vent covers over the lids. You could leave the lids open and it doesn't rain in. Keeps the camper cooler.
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