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Property comparisons
Sheet of Eastman Spectar™ copolyester vs. acrylic
Greater impact strength–downgauging possible
Heat bends in half the time
Die cuts without shattering
Machines without shattering
Cold bends without stress whitening
Superior thermoforming characteristics
Faster cycle times
Thermoforms at lower temperatures
Wider thermoforming window
Better part definition
Sheet of Eastman Spectar™ copolyester vs. polycarbonate (PC)
Sheet is less expensive
Better chemical resistance
Easier to machine—saw, drill, route, and die cut
Laser cuts
Sheet remains clear after radiation sterilization.
Thermoforming characteristics
No predrying required
Faster cycle rates
Wider thermoforming window
Better part definition
Better material distribution
Easy release from mold
Forms with vinyls against male mold
Materials comparison chart
Criteria
Spectar
IMA
Acrylic
PC
PS
PVC
GREENGUARD certifcation
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
Impact strength
3
1
1
4
1
2
See-through clarity
3
3
3
3
3
2
Edge clarity
2
2
3
2
2
1
Heat bending
3
2
2
2
2
3
Flexibility
3
3
2
3
2
2
Thermoforming (3D designs)
4
2
2
2
2
2
Chemical resistance
3
2
2
2
2
3
Minor scratch removal
3
2
2
1
1
2
Downgauging possibilities
3
2
2
3
2
3
Die cutting
3
2
1
3
2
1
Machining
3
2
2
3
2
2
Ease of bonding
2
3
3
2
3
2
Flammability
2
1
1
3
1
1
Surface hardness
1
2
3
2
2
1
Low odor during fabrication
4
1
1
4
1
4
4 Best
3 Good
2 Average
1 Fair
Data sources are
www.plasticusa.com
and our internal experts.