3/32" Clear Polycarbonate Sheet - 48" x 96"
Why Choose 3/32" Clear Polycarbonate at Full Sheet Size?
Why Choose 3/32" Clear Polycarbonate at Full Sheet Size?
The 3/32" thickness represents an optimal balance point in the polycarbonate lineup—thicker than economy 1/16" sheets but lighter than heavy-duty 1/8" options. This middle-ground thickness provides noticeably improved rigidity and deflection resistance while keeping weight manageable at approximately 20 pounds per full sheet. It's the smart choice when 1/16" feels too flexible but 1/4" would be overkill for your application.
At 250 times stronger than glass of equivalent thickness, this sheet excels in moderate-impact environments where structural stability matters. The full 48" x 96" size allows for expansive coverage with minimal seams, making it particularly valuable for protective barriers, secondary glazing, and machine guard applications that require both clarity and durability without excessive weight or cost.
This Thickness Excels When You Need:
- Enhanced rigidity over 1/16" - Noticeably less deflection under load, suitable for spans up to 24 inches with proper frame support
- Moderate weight handling - At 20 pounds per sheet, still manageable for one-person installation while providing substantially more stiffness than thinner options
- Improved impact resistance - The additional thickness delivers better performance in moderate-impact scenarios compared to 1/16" sheets
- Cost-effective structural performance - Bridges the gap between lightweight economy sheets and premium heavy-duty options with smart material efficiency
- Versatile application range - Works well across protective barriers, glazing, machine guards, and display applications where moderate strength is required
Trusted Manufacturing Quality
Our clear polycarbonate sheets are sourced from North America's most respected manufacturers—the same materials specified for critical commercial and industrial applications. Whether we supply Lexan® 9034 from Polyvantis, Tuffak® GP from Plaskolite, or Azcarb® GP from AZpolymers, you're receiving genuine general-purpose polycarbonate that meets ASTM D3935 standards. Our supplier may vary based on availability, but the quality and performance remain consistently exceptional.
When to Choose 3/32" Over Other Thicknesses
Select 3/32" polycarbonate when you need more structural integrity than 1/16" provides but don't require the full rigidity of 1/8" or thicker sheets. This thickness is ideal for protective barriers with 18-24 inch spans, machine guards on equipment with moderate vibration, secondary glazing applications, and retail displays where clarity and impact resistance are priorities. The added stiffness compared to 1/16" reduces deflection noticeably while maintaining reasonable material costs.
For unsupported spans over 30 inches or high-vibration industrial equipment, consider upgrading to 1/8" or 1/4" thickness for additional rigidity. For lightweight temporary barriers or applications under 18 inches, our 1/16" option offers cost savings. The 3/32" thickness hits the sweet spot for most commercial protective barrier and secondary glazing installations.
Perfect Applications for 3/32" Clear Polycarbonate
Perfect Applications for 3/32" Clear Polycarbonate
Lightweight Protective Barriers
Superior to 1/16" for counter shields and protective barriers with longer spans or higher traffic. The added rigidity reduces flex and maintains professional appearance over time. Excellent for reception desks, service counters, and checkout dividers requiring moderate durability.
Learn More About Barriers →Machine Guards & Safety Shields
Ideal thickness for equipment guards on machinery with moderate vibration or movement. Provides better stability than thinner options while remaining light enough for easy mounting. Perfect for woodworking equipment, light manufacturing, and inspection windows.
Learn More About Machine Guards →DIY Projects & Pet Enclosures
The enhanced rigidity makes this thickness excellent for larger pet habitats and custom enclosures. Reduces bowing in larger panels while staying easy to work with standard tools. Ideal for rabbit hutches, larger bird cages, and custom aquarium covers.
Learn More About DIY Projects →Building & Construction
Excellent for secondary glazing, interior partitions, and construction barriers requiring moderate impact resistance. The improved stiffness maintains flat appearance in larger installations. Perfect for office dividers, shower enclosures, and temporary protective walls.
Learn More About Construction Uses →Technical Specifications - 3/32" Polycarbonate
Technical Specifications - 3/32" Polycarbonate
| Nominal Thickness | 3/32" (0.093" actual) |
| Sheet Dimensions | 48" x 96" (full sheet) |
| Approximate Weight | 20 lbs per sheet |
| Impact Strength | 250 times stronger than glass |
| Light Transmission | 88% (crystal clear) |
| Temperature Range | -40°F to 240°F continuous |
| Material Grade | General Purpose Polycarbonate (meets ASTM D3935) |
| Manufacturing Brands | Lexan® (Polyvantis), Tuffak® (Plaskolite), Azcarb® (AZpolymers) - supplier varies by availability |
| Surface Finish | Gloss on both sides with protective masking |
| Recommended Span | Up to 24 inches with frame support |
| Flammability | UL 94 V-2 rating (self-extinguishing) |
| UV Protection | Standard grade (for extended outdoor use, consider UV-stabilized polycarbonate) |
Note on UV Exposure: While this general-purpose polycarbonate can be used outdoors, prolonged UV exposure may cause yellowing over time. For outdoor applications requiring 10-15 year lifespan, consider our UV-resistant polycarbonate sheets with protective coatings.
All sheets ship with protective masking on both sides to prevent scratches during fabrication and installation. Remove masking after installation is complete.
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