Globe Material Types
Understand how different plastics are made and their various properties.
POLYCARBONATE
UV Stabilized
- Polycarbonate is a superior engineering plastic material for extreme conditions.
- UV stabilized to ensure a long life.
- A high continuous working temperature up to 257℉ (125℃) even under extreme environmental conditions and allows the installation of lamps with high wattages.
- High impact resistance and durability remain even at subzero temperatures (-40℉)
- Available in clear or white.
The key physical property of polycarbonate is resistance to impact – it is virtually unbreakable. Polycarbonate should be used in areas where vandal resistance is a concern.
The optical clarity of polycarbonate is degraded by ultraviolet radiation over a period of time.
Decralite recommends a maximum operating temperature of up to 194℉ (90℃) to achieve optimum life.
ACRYLIC
Absolutely UV Resistant
- Acrylic is a material with unsurpassed resistance to weathering and aging, which does not diminish even after prolonged use due to optimum surface hardness.
- Excellent long-term resistance to yellowing.
- Suitable for modern light sources where the maximum working temperature does not exceed 176℉ (80℃).
LED ACRYLIC
Absolutely UV Resistant
LED Acrylic a special formulated premium white frosted acrylic which provides both high light transmission (80% transmission (±3%) and excellent lamp hiding capabilities.
The diffusion comes from a combination of a very fine surface texture and special diffusing additives. LED Acrylic can be thermoformed and fabricated like other standard acrylic globes.
Most series Acorn and round globes are available in this material. LED Acrylic is the preferred choice for LED light sources being it provides high light transmission and at the same time reducing glare and pixilation that’s normally associated with LED light sources.
Decralite assumes no responsibility for suitability of luminaires and applications. The use of lenses near and above 158℉ (70°C) temperatures with high UV output light sources will cause degradation of the material.
POLYETHYLENE
- Lightweight, durable plastic
- Polyethylene globes are generally the least expensive of all the material types.
- Suitable for incandescent light sources due primarily to a lower maximum operating temperature.
- Available only in white
