Question 1

What are three-dimensional or 3D logo signs?

Accepted Answer

3D letters and/or 3D logos are made of plastic, metal or foam. They reinforce an upscale image and create a clear highlighted message. These signs can be illuminated when required.

Question 2

How do I curve the polycarbonate to follow the façade curve?

Accepted Answer

All Palram polycarbonate products can be cold bent onsite during installation, subject to a minimum radius. The radius varies based on the chosen product. For flat sheets such as PALSUN & SUNLITE, the rule-of-thumb for the minimum radius is the thickness multiplied by 200. Please check the Palram catalog for more detailed specifications.

Question 3

How do I specify the required thickness of the polycarbonate glazing material?

Accepted Answer

The recommended thickness of the polycarbonate glazing material is based on factors such as wind & snow load, panel size, and boundary conditions. Visit the Palram website for access to calculators that can help you determine the recommended thickness.

Question 4

How do I reduce the heat build-up coming from the façade into the building?

Accepted Answer

In order to reduce heat build-up through the façade, Palram strongly recommends the use of its tinted SolarSmart™ panels. SolarSmart™ tints can be implemented in all Palram polycarbonate products. For more information, reference the Palram SolarSmart™ technology page.

Question 5

How do I create a double skin glazing solution for façades and curtain walls?

Accepted Answer

Flat solid or multiwall sheets can be glazed in double skin applications using standard aluminum curtain wall profiles and EPDM gaskets. The SUNPAL system can be installed in a double skin application with a special aluminum profile provided by Palram.

Question 6

Can flat solid polycarbonate be installed in a similar manner to glass in curtain wall applications?

Accepted Answer

PALSUN can be installed with standard curtain wall aluminum glazing profiles and EPDM gaskets (similar to glass), or spider fixing spaced with approximately 400 mm centers. However, it cannot be used with structural silicone and PALGARD (PALSUN) with anti-scratch coating is the recommended substitute in this case.

Question 7

Should products be pre-dried before thermoforming?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the production date and storage conditions of the product before thermoforming. It is recommended to check the product before thermoforming is attempted.

Question 8

Is the PE film suitable for thermoforming applications?

Accepted Answer

Most of Palram's products that are delivered with PE film covering are suitable for thermoforming. In general, we recommend using clear PE and not printed PE.

Question 9

How do I polish the edges of acrylic?

Accepted Answer

Acrylic edges can be polished by heating them with a torch, blowing hot air on them, or rotating a brush with wax.

Question 10

What is the minimum allowed bending radius of polycarbonate?

Accepted Answer

The minimum allowed bending radius of the polycarbonate is 200 times the thickness of the sheet, for example, a 2 mm sheet has a minimum 400 mm bending radius.

Question 11

What are the dimensions of PALCLAD Pro sheets (size and thickness)?

Accepted Answer

PALCLAD Pro comes in a standard size of 1500x3000 mm and in thicknesses of 2 and 2.5 mm.

Question 12

What is the range of colors for PALCLAD Pro?

Accepted Answer

PALCLAD Pro comes standard in white and off-white. In addition, 10 more colors are available on special order. PALCLAD Pro can be printed on with excellent ink adhesion to surface and print quality.

Question 13

What is the difference between antimicrobial and antibacterial?

Accepted Answer

Antimicrobial and antibacterial are interchangeable in many cases. However, antimicrobial offers further protection by eliminating fungi, that is, by eliminating any mold or potential mold build-up.

Question 14

Can I use multiwall polycarbonate sheets as a skylight combined with a metal roof?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can by using domes or glazing solutions. Please contact Palram technical support for further information.

Question 15

How do I install flat solid or multiwall polycarbonate sheets as skylights?

Accepted Answer

Flat solid or multiwall polycarbonate sheets need to be installed with designated aluminum profiles when used as a skylight.

Question 16

How do I install corrugated polycarbonate sheets as a skylight?

Accepted Answer

Corrugated polycarbonate sheets are installed as a homogeneous part of the metal roof. For more information, please review Palram's installation instructions for the desired profile.

Question 17

Can I use clear PVC corrugated sheets for skylights?

Accepted Answer

Clear corrugated PVC sheets can function as skylights incorporated into metal or other types of roofing. Note that this is only suitable for areas with cold climates.

Question 18

Why do I have to pre-drill fastener holes in roofing with corrugated panels?

Accepted Answer

Pre-drilling the holes ensures that the panels have room to expand and contract properly with temperature changes. Skipping this step can lead to distorted, warped or cracked panels.

Question 19

Can the percentage of light transmission be controlled? I need a lot of light but I need it to be diffused.

Accepted Answer

Palram offers various LT% parameters - from 0% to 90%. In addition, we offer a color called a “diffuser” that allows 85% of the light in while diffusing it by 100%. The result is a light-transmitting panel that is not transparent but is highly translucent.

Question 20

If polycarbonate sheets block UV radiation, why is there a "UV-side" that faces outwards?

Accepted Answer

Polycarbonate sheets block UV radiation by absorbing it. This absorption mechanism can cause degradation to the material, and to prevent this from happening, the sheet is coated with a special material. For this reason, it is recommended that the sheets are installed with the marked UV protective layer facing outward. Moreover, most of the sheets are only protected on the side that is clearly marked as such.

Question 21

Is PALRUF resistant to UV radiation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, PALRUF corrugated PVC is resistant to UV.

Question 22

Can corrugated sheets be curved?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Corrugated sheets can be cold-curved to create arched shapes. It's important to follow the relevant Palram specifications for minimum radius in cold-curving, which can be found in the Installation Instructions of the relevant sheets. In addition, corrugated sheets should be arched so that the corrugations themselves are curved lengthwise.

Question 23

Is it OK to walk over PALRUF roofing sheets, during or after installation?

Accepted Answer

No. If it can’t be avoided during installation, use stepping ladders, platforms or crawling boards to prevent walking directly over PALRUF roofing sheets.

Question 24

My building inspector says I need the fire certification for PALRUF. Can you provide this information?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can provide test reports and other such documents. Please contact your Palram dealer if you require this data.

Question 25

When roofing with PALRUF corrugated panels, where should I fix the screws – valley or crest points?

Accepted Answer

Crest fixing is preferred.

Question 26

When roofing with PALRUF corrugated panels, where should I start to install?

Accepted Answer

You can choose to install left to right, or right to left. It is recommended to always advance against the dominant wind direction at the site. Never start at both sides, or at any two separate points.

Question 27

How do I design the secondary steel support spacings for roofing/siding?

Accepted Answer

Palram created specific loading tables for each product. Please visit our website and download the specific catalog.

Question 28

Can I install multiwall polycarbonate sheets horizontally for siding?

Accepted Answer

No. The multiwall channels should always be vertical to allow condensation water to drain out by gravity.

Question 29

Can I install corrugated PVC and polycarbonate sheets horizontally for siding?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Make sure you start installing from the bottom up so the overlaps will not let the water in.

Question 30

Are there customized sizes of BULLETPROOF sheets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, BULLETPROOF is available in custom sheets of up to four square meters.

Question 31

What is the protection level for ballistic?

Accepted Answer

For bullets, BULLETPROOF offers UL 752 protection up to level 6 — protection against automatic weapons firing pistol-caliber ammunition such as an Uzi sub-machine gun chambered in 9 mm.

Question 32

What level of protection against forced entry can I expect from BULLETPROOF?

Accepted Answer

BULLETPROOF offers forced entry protection equivalent to ASTM F1915-05 Security Grade Level 1-3 — a standard developed to measure impact-resistant fittings in correctional facilities.

Question 33

How do I clean the polycarbonate?

Accepted Answer

Never use abrasive or high alkaline cleaners on any Palram polycarbonate products.
Do not leave cleaners on Palram polycarbonate for extended periods of time. Rinse immediately with cold, clean water.
Do not apply cleaners in direct sunlight.
Never use sharp objects, squeegees or razors on polycarbonate.
Do not clean with gasoline.
Always practice safety first and never step directly on a polycarbonate panel.
Always test cleaners in a small inconspicuous area prior to cleaning the entire panel to ensure against adverse results.
Avoid allowing the pressure washer spray tip to come too close to the panel. Pressure washers often have enough pressure at the spray tip to penetrate or tear the panel.
Avoid dry cleaning as sand and dust particles clinging to the exterior of the panels may scratch the surface.

Question 34

How do I combine corrugated polycarbonate sheets (SUNTUF) with metal sheets?

Accepted Answer

With Palram's MetalMatch technology, we can perfectly match almost any trapezoid industrial metal sheet and install SUNTUF as a homogeneous part of the roof.

Question 35

What are the common applications of corrugated PVC sheets?

Accepted Answer

The common applications of corrugated PVC sheets are buildings that require opaque coverings and/or are located in highly-corrosive environments such as chemical plants, coastlines, cowsheds, and dairies.

Question 36

When should I use PVC corrugated sheets versus polycarbonate corrugated sheets?

Accepted Answer

PVC corrugated sheets are mainly used for opaque roofing and siding of industrial buildings in highly-corrosive environments such as port warehouses, cowsheds, and dairies. Polycarbonate corrugated sheets are mainly used as roofing or siding where natural daylight illumination is needed.

Question 37

What are the benefits of using polycarbonate standing-seam system over standard polycarbonate sheets?

Accepted Answer

The main benefit of the standing-seam system is that unlike standard sheets, it is sold together with all installation accessories. This system also provides superior water tightness and is easier and faster to install.

Question 38

What is the meaning of Shading Coefficient (SC)?

Accepted Answer

Shading coefficient (SC) is a parameter that compares transparent and translucent materials with clear 3 mm glass with 87% LT ׂ(light transmission). The lower the value, the more convenient it is to stay under the material on warm, sunny days. In architectural projects, the SC should usually be between 0.3 to 0.5.

Question 39

When should I use multiwall polycarbonate and when solid polycarbonate?

Accepted Answer

Multiwall polycarbonate should be used when the key design parameter is thermal insulation. Solid polycarbonate should be used when the key design parameter is acoustic insulation and glass-like appearance.

Question 40

What is the difference between multiwall and solid polycarbonate?

Accepted Answer

Multiwall is a multi-cell structured sheet. Due to its multi-cell structure, it has superior thermal insulation and low area weight.

Question 41

When should I specify a matte surface finish for the polycarbonate?

Accepted Answer

A matte surface finish is good if you want to avoid glare within your surroundings.

Question 42

How do I determine the color, Light Transmission (LT) and haze properties of polycarbonate?

Accepted Answer

This decision depends on the application – some of the colors are transparent and some are translucent. If a see-through material is needed, then haze should be smaller than 1% and the LT% should be based on the illumination design. If a translucent effect is needed, then the haze should be 100% and the LT% based on the chosen color.

Question 43

Where should I use corrugated versus multiwall polycarbonate covering?

Accepted Answer

SUNTUF Plus corrugated polycarbonate sheets provide the best light transmittance and UV light resistance, with exceptional load bearing and impact-resistance properties. SUNLITE Plus multiwall PC sheets provide the best thermal insulation. In locations where you would prefer thermal insulation to light transmission, you should use SUNLITE Plus multiwall PC sheets.

Question 44

Can I retrofit my old glass house with polycarbonate sheets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Palram's MetalMatch technology enables us to create a covering that will fit any existing structure without requiring any additions.

Question 45

Can I cover my old polyethylene greenhouse with polycarbonate while still keeping the old structure?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but with minor reinforcements to the structure in order to support the load.

Question 46

Will polycarbonate light transmittance deteriorate over time?

Accepted Answer

PALRAM's polycarbonate products are shielded with a UV protection layer that guards against photodegradation, yellowing, and brittleness. This protects the sheets from the harmful impact of UV radiation and helps to maintain light transmittance and quality for many years. Our products come with a 10-year warranty against loss of light transmittance. Upon special request, we can provide an enforced UV protection layer with a longer warranty.

Question 47

Do Palram's animal covering and cladding solutions have thermal insulation properties?

Accepted Answer

All of Palram's animal covering & cladding solutions have superior thermal insulation properties compared to metal coverings.

Question 48

Is PALRUF resistant to animal residue?

Accepted Answer

All of Palram's animal covering & cladding solutions are resistant to animal residues, detergents, and other chemicals, and come with a 10+ year warranty.

Question 49

Which of Palram's sheets are suitable for printing, sign & display applications?

Accepted Answer

For use in illuminated signage, PALSUN, PALSUN CS (Coil Stock) and PALGLAS are suitable for the sign face; and PALBOARD, PALOPAQUE, and PALIGHT for the body of the letters or symbols. For print & display, Palram's entire product portfolio can be used based on the specific application. This choice depends on a combination of several parameters, including the cost of the media, its durability, and its suitability for the specific application. Please visit Palram’s Flat sheet application catalog for more information.

Question 50

Which materials can be used in the construction of my sign?

Accepted Answer

Sign faces are usually made from polycarbonate or acrylic. For extreme conditions such as heavy hail, low temperatures, or high temperatures produced when thermo-forming, polycarbonate is probably more suitable. For sign boxes or channel letter cans, PVC, multi-layered PVC and foam PVC can be used.

Question 51

Which material diffuses the light better?

Accepted Answer

The diffusion is not defined by the material, but by the diffusion additive that is part of the manufacturing formula. The materials should be selected by their fit to the application (e.g. polycarbonate for thermo-forming or extreme weather). Usually products marked with sign grade and/or diffusion grades have greater light diffusion than others.

Question 52

What is an illuminated sign?

Accepted Answer

A sign that is illuminated by an electrical light source (fluorescent\LED).

Question 53

What is the most accurate white point that is suitable for wide-format printing?

Accepted Answer

There are different white substrates available but in order to achieve a true colored image according to the design, a process of profiling (ICC profile) needs to be done. By using a natural white substrate (a tint which been made with no extra additives), the process of measuring and profiling becomes very simple and fast.

Question 54

How do I handle inkjet printable media before and after printing?

Accepted Answer

Before: use a protected sheet with PE masking, store unused inkjet printable media in original packaging and in a clean area, and avoid touching the print side by handling the edges of the sheet or by using lint-free white gloves. After: avoid any finishing until prints are completely dry, store the printed media in a clean environment, and avoid dust from sticking to the fresh cured ink.

Question 55

What is the difference between a polypropylene sheet and PVC?

Accepted Answer

In terms of ink adhesion properties, both polymers act very differently. PVC is a ready-to-use polymer so no pre-treatment needs to be done before printing (on rigid or flexible media). Polypropylene has different chemical properties and for this reason, needs to get a pre-treatment coat ('Corona'), which has a limited shelf life.

Question 56

What is the best wide-format inkjet media (substrate) for my application?

Accepted Answer

This is based on a combination of several parameters, but the main ones are the cost of the media and its durability, and its fit to the required application. Please visit Palram’s Flat Sheet Application Catalog.

Question 57

What can assure accurate double-sided printing or recto verso prints?

Accepted Answer

A strict spec of diagonal (from angle to angle) during the production process is feasible for this.

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