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Reinforce transparent plastic

Reinforce transparent plastic

Reinforce transparent plastic

(OP)
I have recently installed a machine for leak testing
car radiators.  The machine works by lowering the radiator
into a tank of water and blowing compressed air into it.
If bubbles are seen, the core is a "leaker" and has to be repaired.  To hold the core in situ whilst pressure is applied, a bar at either side clamps the core between both header plates.  These bars are stainless steel and therefore cannot be seen through!  Subsequently if a leak occurs where these bars mask, the leak cannot be located accurately.  I intend to replace these bars with a material that is transparent, but durable.  I would be grateful for any suggestions.

Paul

RE: Reinforce transparent plastic

Your options include:

1) glass - obviously has a toughness problem, but you could use a tempered glass or a more exotic type like Pyrex

2) thermoplastics - polycarbonate and acrylic are two varieties, although they may suffer from creep and environmental degradation.

3) thermosets - epoxies and polyesters are two varieties, they have improved creep and environmental resistance compared to thermoplastics, but reduced toughness.

RE: Reinforce transparent plastic

Lexan is another option.  It's definitely durable (it's used as bullet-proof glass).

Haf

RE: Reinforce transparent plastic

Haf,

Lexan is the trademarked name for polycarbonate manufactured by GE Plastics.

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