Sheets of lexan or polycabonate

[untouchables64]

I have quite a few sheets of this lexan I was thinking about using on restoring my boat. I have used it before for few other projects.. But I thought about using them for the deck on the bow and transom area where there is no traffic.... The sides and possibly make some compartments, shelves, doors, maybe dash... I was wondering if anyone has used anything like this for similiar projects... if so is there a glue that works best to laminate it or bond it together... and since i'm still uncertain what i will be doing for rest of the deck if a certain paints, primers, epoxies or if bed lining or carpet or vinyl will work... just idears going through my head since this stuff is light weight, weatherproof and very durable... thank you

 

[untouchables64]

Re: Sheets of lexan or polycabonate

These are thin sheets that were used on the front of vending machines

 

[62cruiserinc]

Re: Sheets of lexan or polycabonate

The best way to bond Lexan (polycarbonate) is to solvent-weld it together. I have often made prototypes of products for work in our shop using polycarbonate.

How thin are the sheets? If you have to build up a lot of thin pieces then the cost of the solvent-weld chemicals becomes expensive. You also have to work fast on large areas because the solvent welding chemicals evaporate rather quickly.

If you paint it, there are primers made for plastic that adhere very well to it.

Polycarbonate is good for cabinets, doors, compartments, etc as it has high impact resistance. However, I'm not sure how thick you would need to make it for a deck.

You can also bend it fairly easily using a heat gun to get it to about 250 degrees.

Steve

 

[mxcobra]

Re: Sheets of lexan or polycabonate

I am probly going to use that stuff for my seat boxes and engine cover!!!
we have made motorcycle seats for dirt track bikes out of it before...

 

[untouchables64]

Re: Sheets of lexan or polycabonate

Thanks Steve, Its prolly 3/16'' not that thick... think it will work good for sides.. guy that gave it to me used for flooring on 18' flat bottom ( no seats to bolt down) and thought it was great especially for the weight. Was thinking about ONLY using for the deck in transom area and bend the part that rises into the Bow decking...I'm using an old Aluminum highway sign for rest of decking... I was thinking I could do something cool with the dash if I could laminate a few pieces together and bond a few compartments in it and few other areas...