TECHNICAL GUIDE NUMBER THREE - Nolan Group · Nolan Warehouses, established in 1920, is a merchant wholesaler whose products can be segregated into three main groupings: Industrial

Nolan WarehousesESTABLISHED 1920

TECHNICAL GUIDE NUMBER THREE

Flexible Clear PVC

COMPANY PROFILE

Over many years, Nolan Warehouses has established asolid network of trading partners around the world, andlongstanding business relationships with its customerbase, most of whom are fabricators or installers. This isbecause nearly all the products the company suppliesrequire conversion into a practically usable or con-sumable form. Nonetheless, in its area of expertise, thecompany is well known in the Architect and Specifiercommunity.

The company prides itself on its technical expertise, andrigorous approach to new product selection and testing,which goes a long way to ensuring that its productportfolio is at the very least, of merchantable quality and fit for purpose. This is particularly significant, sincethe key features that determine product quality cannotbe determined by superficial examination. Many of itsbrands, through prolonged field life and performance,have become synonymous with their end application.

Nolan Warehouses, established in 1920, is a merchant wholesalerwhose products can be segregated into three main groupings: Industrial Fabrics, Automotive & Marine and Contact & Commercial. The business trades from six fully stocked branches throughout Australia, located concentrically with the country’s population.

The company is classified by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) as a ‘Large Reporting Entity’, satisfying the latter’s minimum classification criteria of net assets and turnover.

Over its 87 year history, the company has prosperedthrough depression, world war, and significant changesin strategic direction. Its various branches have survivedfire, major flooding and even earthquake! It remainsproudly third generation family owned and operated.

Nolan Warehouseswww.nolans.com.auFiremen attending blaze at Adelaide warehouse in 1963.

Liveried delivery truck at Circular Quay, Sydney, circa 1930.

Head office and warehouse in Alexandria, Sydney.

The Nolan team at the Adelaide conference 2007.


TECHNICAL GUIDE NUMBER THREE

Flexible Clear PVC

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Disclaimer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

What is Flexible Clear PVC? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Technical Guide Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

PRODUCT DIMENSIONS, PACKAGING & LABELLING

Product Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Examples of Achilles and Wardle Storeys Labelling . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5

FABRICATION TIPS

Product Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Storage and Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Plasticiser Migration or Loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Batch Variations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Effect of Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Residual Stress Relief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Tissue Marking or Cloudiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Zippers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Care and Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

PROPERTIES AND TEST METHODS

Australian Standards and Manufacturers’ Specifications . . . . . . . . 8

Specific Gravity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Flexibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Stiffness (Elastic Modulus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9

Dimensional Stability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Tensile Strength, Elongation and Tear Strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11

Visual Light Transmission, Haze and UV Stability . . . . . . . . . . 11-12

Flammability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13

Flammability – Building Code of Australia Requirements for Clear Blinds . . . . . 13

Flammability – NSW and Victorian Requirements for Temporary Structures . . 13

Chemical Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

PRODUCT WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

APPENDIX A

Chemical Resistance of Flexible Clear PVC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-17

APPENDIX B

Flammability Test Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-20

IMPORTANT: The contents of this Technical Guide are the copyright of Nolan O'Rourke and Company Pty Ltd.

No part may be reproduced without explicit permission.

THE CONTENTS OF THIS TECHNICAL GUIDE ARE COPYRIGHT JANUARY 2006. NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT EXPLICIT PERMISSION. 3

In the pressed polished process, calendered PVCsheets are further processed to improve clarity. Theseare laid between highly polished stainless steelplates, which are in turn stacked in an hydraulic hotpress. As steam is applied, the PVC becomes soft, andunder pressure the original calendered sheets arelaminated together, and the ultra-smooth surface ofthe plate replicated on both sides.

“Rollclear” and “Rollglass” are Nolan brandnames for calendered and extruded productrespectively, both manufactured by the AchillesCorporation of Japan. “Vybak” is the registered TradeMark of a range of a polished clear PVC sheetmanufactured by Wardle Storeys Ltd, England.

Nolan Warehouses stock all three brands in arange of thicknesses, tints, and other additives thataffect performance, such as flame retardants. Allproducts are UV stabilised for outdoor use and carrya manufacturers’ warranty, supported by the “NolanPromise”.

Technical Guide ObjectivesEven for an experienced fabricator, selection of

an appropriate type of clear flexible PVC to use in aparticular circumstance is not easy. For example, it isimpossible to differentiate between the visual clarityof the different types simply by viewing samples.Similarly, many of the features that determine the lifeof the product, such as the quantity of UV inhibitorsadded, cannot be assessed other than by laboratorytesting.

This guide is designed to provide informationthat is more comprehensive than that provided inthe sales literature of our suppliers. It examines therelevant specifications and test methods, and makescomment on their significance. The characteristics ofthe material, and the inherent differences resultingfrom the different processes of manufacture areexplained. Also included is advice on fabrication,based on industry experience gleaned from a widerange of end-use applications.

INTRODUCTION

DisclaimerNolan Warehouses is a National Australian

distributor of Industrial Fabrics, and was establishedin 1920. This guide is one of a series prepared for all products sold by the company, and is designed toprovide appropriate technical information andadvice to fabricators and end-users. The informationis based on that provided by the manufacturers orour general experience, and is given in good faith,but because of the many particular factors which areoutside our knowledge and control and affect the useof products, no warranty is given or is to be impliedon its accuracy.

AcknowledgementsMr. Yoichi Yumoto, Achilles Corporation.

Ms. Belinda Spencer, Wardle Storeys plc.

Mr. Roger Cole, CPA Advertising Pty Ltd. (Design and Artwork)

What is Flexible Clear PVC?Flexible clear PVC is widely used as a glazing

material in awnings, tent enclosures, marinecanopies and motor vehicle soft-tops. PVC orpolyvinyl chloride is a stable, durable and chemicallyresistant material, and with UV inhibitors added, onethat is widely used in outdoor applications. Theaddition of “plasticisers” in a proportion of about30% by weight provides flexibility, but alsosignificantly changes the material’s characteristics.

There are essentially three types of flexible PVCavailable on the market, “calendered”, “extruded” or“pressed polished”, each type named after its form ofmanufacture. Calendering is the process wherebyPVC resin is heated to a semi-liquid form, and passedover a series of metal rollers to form a thin sheet ofmaterial. In extrusion, the liquid is pushed or pulledthrough a die. For clear PVC, the difference isapparent in the surface finish, extrusion resulting ina smoother surface, and therefore better visualclarity. The maximum thickness of sheets producedin these base processes is approximately 0.35mm.Thicker sheeting is the result of lamination.

Pressed polished sheets being removed from plates.

Calendered PVC being tensioned over rollers.

NOLAN O’ROURKESYDNEYP.O. # 1656C/N 114MADE IN JAPAN

THE CONTENTS OF THIS TECHNICAL GUIDE ARE COPYRIGHT JANUARY 2006. NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT EXPLICIT PERMISSION.4

NOLAN ROLLCLEAR

UV STABILISED

WIDTH 1370m

LENGTH 25 metres

THICKNESS 1.00mm

A summary of the product details and packagingis shown in TABLE 1, and typical labelling shown inFIGURE 1 (Achilles) and FIGURE 2 (Wardle Storeys).The labelling provides all details necessary for iden-

PRODUCT DIMENSIONS, PACKAGING & LABELLING

TABLE 1 – Product Details

NolanDescription of

DimensionsPackaged

PackagingBrand

Manufacturing Thickness(cm)

WeightDetailsProcess (kg)

Rollclear Calendered 0.50mm (.020”) 137cm x 40m roll 360.75mm (.030” ) 137cm x 30m roll 401.00mm (.040” ) 137cm x 25m roll 442.00mm (.080” ) 137cm x 15m roll 463.00mm (.120” ) 137cm x 10m roll 42

Rollclear Tint Calendered 0.75mm (.030” ) 137cm x 30m roll 401.00mm (.040” ) 137cm x 25m roll 44

Rollclear FR Calendered 0.75mm (.030” ) 137cm x 30m roll 401.00mm (.040” ) 137cm x 25m roll 44

Rollglass Extruded 1.00mm (.040” ) 137cm x 15m roll 271.00mm (.040” ) 183cm x 14m roll 38

Vybak Press Polished 0.75mm (.030” ) 250 x 125 sheet 161.00mm (.040” ) 250 x 125 sheet 22

Vybak ( Tint ) Press Polished 1.00mm (.040” ) 250 x 125 sheet 22

Wound on cardboard coresuspended at each endin a box of dimensions20cm x 20cm x 143cm.

Wound on cardboard coresuspended at each endin a drum 20cm in dia

x 148cm in length.

5 sheets interleaved withtissue paper and packedin a drum 22cm in dia x

134cm in length.

Brand I.D.

Confirmationof stability foroutdoor use

Dimensions

tification of shipment and manufacturing dates, thusproviding an immediate linkage to the relevantsupplier’s quality control procedures.

FIGURE 1 – Achilles Labelling

Port of entry

Nolan order number

Achilles roll number

Country of origin

On the Box or Roll Wrapper.Label size: 120 x 250mm

On the end of the Roll Label size: 125 x 125mm


FABRICATION TIPS

WARDLE STOREYSQUANTITY LENGTH

WEIGHT WEIGHT GROSS PARCEL NO. PACKER

WORKS ORDER REFERENCE SPLITS CUSTOMER ORDER NO.

DESCRIPTION

QUALITY COLOUR CODE THICKNESS

SURFACE/FINISH WIDTH LENGTH

STOCK ITEM/PRODUCT CODE PART NO.

ROLL REF.

Nolan O’Rourke order number

Productdescription

Nominal sheet dimensions

Manufacturer

Sheets per drum

Drum weight (kg)

Wardle Storeys batch number

Qualityspecification

Product code number

FIGURE 2 – Wardle Storeys Labelling

Product SelectionThe essential difference between calendered,

extruded and pressed polished PVC clear is clarity,which is very difficult to discern when viewedthrough a small piece, but obvious on the finishedjob. To some extent, the ultimate choice will dependon the customer’s perception, desired end use, andbudget. A guide is given in TABLE 2.

Some thought should also be given to theselection of the thickness of sheet. For example the0.75mm is lighter, and will roll up more easily thanthe 1.00mm, but does not drape as well. Experiencehas shown that the heavier material is more suitedfor roll-up blind enclosures, particularly whensubject to wind-load.

Unreinforced Clear PVC has a reasonableultimate strength, but exhibits a high level of defor-

mation under load. Its tear strength is also relativelymodest. Caution should therefore be exercised if the material is expected to be placed under stress, asit runs the risk of becoming “baggy”. Under thesecircumstances, consideration should be given tousing the reinforced Herculite T13. Although nottransparent, the material is translucent.

Untreated clear PVC is flammable, and may not meet Fire Regulations in some commercialapplications, or even temporary structures for NSWand Victoria. Although some guidelines are providedin this report, it is important to check with therelevant authority to determine their specificrequirements for the particular job. AS1530 pt II and pt III certificates for “Rollclear”, and “RollclearFR” are attached as APPENDIX B.


Loose sheets should be handled carefully tominimise the likelihood of scratching. It is inad-visable to stack sheets or finished enclosure curtainson top of each other without tissue interleaving, asthe plastic may stick and be scratched when pulledapart. Use the tissue paper included in the packaging to protect the sheets. Do not use “shrink-

wrap” for this purpose,because if left for aprolonged period, it canalter the properties ofthe clear PVC through“plasticiser” migration.

PlasticiserMigration or LossPVC is made flexible bythe use of plasticisers, of

which there are a variety, all different in molecularcomposition. When two PVC’s with different types ofplasticisers are brought into contact, plasticisertends to “migrate” from one to the other. Themovement can be compared to water flowingbetween two connected tanks, with initially differentsurface levels, which continues until parity occurs.The “migration” of plasticiser is slow, and can takeseveral months for it to become evident, eitherthrough changes in stiffness or dimension.

Caution should therefore be exercised whenusing a coloured PVC laminate for edging, as thesemay use different plasticiser to the clear. Herculite2000 and Nylex Boat-hooding have been tested, andfound to be compatible with all Nolan clear PVC.

FABRICATION TIPS (continued)

Storage and HandlingThe packaging of all pro-

duct is designed carefully toprotect the contents. “Rollclear”is rolled about a core, which is suspended at each end. “Rollglass” is similarlypackaged in a drum. A two metre allowance isprovided in each roll to compensate for theindentation caused at the start and finish of the rollby the cut end. When removed from its packaging, a roll should ideally be suspended on the core toprevent further indentation.

The packaging of “Vybak” is designed to protectthe highly polished surface from damage. For thisreason, each sheet is interleaved with tissue paper,before being rolled into drums. The drums shouldalways be shipped and stored in the upright positionand care should be taken when removing the sheets,or moving them on a worktable, which ideally shouldbe covered with fabric.

Flexible clear PVC used as glazingfor a boat and greenhouse.

TABLE 2 – UV Stabilised clear PVC – typical product applications

Nolan Brand Thickness Comment

Rollclear 0.50mm (.020”)0.75mm (.030” )

Used for tent windows, small boats, restaurant enclosures,1.00mm (.040” )marquees. Slight visual distortion, but most economic option.

2.00mm (.080” )3.00mm (.120” )

Rollclear Tint 0.75mm (.030” )Grey tint, otherwise as above.

1.00mm (.040” )

Rollclear FR 0.75mm (.030” )Meets Building Code fire standards.

1.00mm (.040” )

Rollglass 1.00mm (.040” ) Better visual clarity than calendered. Use where thedesired outlook or view is of paramount importance.

Vybak 0.75mm (.030” ) Jumbo Mainly used in soft-tops and larger boats. High degree1.00mm (.040” ) of clarity, which meets US Govt. Vehicle Standards.

Vybak ( Tint ) 1.00mm (.040” ) As for standard ‘Vybak’.


Yellowing, stiffening or cracking is inevitably theresult of plasticiser loss, and is irreversible. Theprocess is normal, and gradual deterioration of allclear product will occur over the life of the product,which should be about five years, particularly if thesurface is cleaned regularly.

Rapid deterioration is a sure indication ofplasticiser migration, UV degradation or chemicalattack. The cause can usually be determined bylaboratory analysis, and in the event of a complaint,samples should be submitted for testing.

Batch VariationsAll clear PVC has a faint bluish tint, which is an

integral part of its make-up, but can vary slightlybetween batches. Sheets proposed to be joined oradjoining, should therefore be carefully examined forsuch variation, which can sometimes be obvious on afinished job. When in doubt, use sheets from thesame batch.

When calendering or extruding PVC, it isextremely difficult to obtain uniform gauge orthickness across the roll. Although Achilles work toexacting tolerances, minute variations in thicknesscan occur, particularly at the edge, which can resultin slightly wavy edges

Effect of TemperatureThe flexibility and dimensional stability of clear

PVC varies with temperature, and it is important todo all marking and cutting out at room temperature,that is about 23ºC, in order to minimise potentialproblems of expansion or contraction due to changes in temperature. Sheets installed tightly incold weather will not necessarily remain so inwarmer conditions. Shrinkage of up to 2% due totemperature should be allowed for.

Residual Stress ReliefDue consideration must be made of the

possibility of dimensional changes in “Rollclear” and“Rollglass”, due to residual stresses resulting from theproduction process. Achilles recommend that beforefabrication of these products, any cuts are allowed tolay flat or hang freely at room temperature for anumber of days, which provides sufficient time for

most of the residual stresses to be dissipated. Unlessrelieved, these stresses can cause shrinkage along thelength of the roll of up to -3.5%, and expansion acrossit of up to +2.0%.

Because of the different dimensional change inwarp and weft directions, it is recommended thatvertical drops be fabricated along the roll only. Careshould also be taken in welding or joining sheets cutfrom a roll to ensure they are aligned compatibly, elsepuckering may occur. Similarly, zippers should onlybe used along the roll to minimise the potentialstrain on the chain teeth.

Tissue Marking or Cloudiness“Vybak” should also be laid out flat overnight

before use. Provided the ambient temperature issufficiently high, any tissue marking that may haveoccurred in transit, which manifests itself as faint“snail trails” on the surface, should disappear. Shouldthese still be there next morning, it is probablybecause the overnight temperature was too low. Inthis case, lay the sheets out in the sun on a blackpiece of carpet or apply hot air from a heat-gun, untilthe plastic softens. The gun should be held 10cm to15 cm away from the sheet while treating a 30cm x30cm area at a time. Care should be taken not toscorch the surface. If marks are still there after thistreatment, it is possible contaminants in the plasticitself are causing the problem. If this is the case,contact your local branch of Nolan Warehouses foradvice, before cutting out. The same treatment canalso be used for other light markings such as zip marks.

PVC can absorb water, which shows up as acloudy residue. This will disappear under the actionof sunlight but may take some time to do so. Theproblem commonly occurs when a blind is rolledwet, which traps surface moisture.

ZippersThe finished job looks best when the product is

held under slight tension, but care should be takenwhen zippers are employed as a fastening system.Over-tensioning can damage the teeth of the zipper,or make them very difficult to close.

Care and CleaningThe use of harsh chemicals for cleaning should

be avoided as these can scratch the surface or attackthe material (refer to APPENDIX A)

Clear PVC should only be cleaned with a dilutesolution of mild soap and warm water. Rinse withclean water and dry with a soft cloth or a sponge.

The surface can be scratched by rubbing with acoarse cloth or even in general usage, and these areimpossible to remove. Some success with slightscratching has been attained with careful use of carpolish, but this is not recommended by themanufacturer, who take a similar position with thecommercial soft-top window cleaners now available.

These care instructions are printed on sew-intags, which are available free-of-charge.

Slight variations in tension and thickness across the roll can cause waviness at the edges.


PROPERTIES AND TEST METHODS

Australian Standards and Manufacturers’ Specifications

There are two Australian Standards relevant toeither the production or use of clear PVC. The first, AS 2324 -1979 “PVC Film and Sheeting (Flexible,Unsupported, Calendered)” was withdrawn on 1stJuly 1999, and a new standard is in preparation. The second, AS 3957-1991 “Light TransmittingScreens and Curtains For Welding Operations” ismore relevant to the Achilles “Weldscreen”, butnonetheless contains some physical and perfor-mance criteria applicable to non-tinted PVC. BothStandards have been used as a yardstick for thecomparison of manufacturers’ specifications in thisguide.

Where practicable, physical properties, such astear strength, have been tested to AustralianStandards and results reproduced in this guide.Otherwise the relevant British, Japanese or USstandards are quoted.

Wardle Storeys (manufacturers of “Vybak”) andAchilles (manufacturers of “Rollclear” and“Rollglass”) have different specifications and testmethods for measuring particular physicalproperties. However, many of the test methods aresimilar, and where the results can be normalised (forexample, by expressing tensile strength as a force perunit length), they have been in this report.

The main differences between the variousproducts lie in degree of clarity, dimensional stabilityand flame retardancy. Otherwise they are relativelyhomogeneous materials with similar physicalproperties. For this reason, commonality of somephysical parameters such as specific gravity and tearstrength has been assumed, and no distinction madebetween the products of the two manufacturers.

Specific GravityThe specific gravity of a substance is its weight

relative to water, which weighs one tonne per cubicmetre. The specific gravity of “Vybak” is 1.27, mea-sured to British Standard BS2782 509A. Assuming theAchilles product to be of the same specific gravity, theweight per square metre of various thicknesses ofclear PVC sheet is shown in TABLE 3.

FlexibilityThe flexibility (sometimes referred to as “soft-

ness” or “hardness”) of clear PVC is primarily afunction of the amount of plasticiser added to thematerial. It also varies slightly with ambienttemperature. Flexibility in AS 2324 is defined by thephysical amount of plasticiser added, measured asthe proportion of DIOP (Di-iso-octyl Phalate) perhundred parts resin (pphr). This arbitrary measure is co-related to “softness” as defined by BritishStandard BS 2782, pt 3, method 307A (1970). PVCsheeting is graded in AS 2324 as “soft”, “medium” or“semi-rigid” according to DIOP content as shown inTABLE 4.

“Vybak” has a BS Softness number of 21. Achillesgrade their material according to “hand”, on anarbitrary scale from “most soft” to “most hard”, (i.e.4S, 3S, 2S, 1S, 1H, 2H, 3H, 4H), which in terms ofplasticiser content, encompasses the range of DIOPcontent shown in TABLE 4.

The Achilles clear PVC marketed by NolanWarehouses has a “hand” value of between 2S and 4S, depending on the thickness of the material,which corresponds to a pphr value of 41 and 49respectively. Both “Vybak” and Achilles products areclassified as “medium” flexibilty under AS 2324.

Stiffness (Elastic Modulus) Stiffness, which is technically the Elastic

Modulus, is a measure of the relationship betweenapplied stress (i.e. load) and the resultant strain (i.e. the deformation under load) for the material,(refer FIGURE 4 overleaf).

Physical properties vary slightly with stiffness.The variation in Elastic Modulus between a “hard”and “soft” material may be as much as 34%, whichwould be very noticeable in feel and workability. The corresponding decline in ultimate tensilestrength and tear strength would be 3.2% and 17.2%respectively.

The Bending Modulus for 0.75mm thickness“Vybak” has been determined by testing to AustralianStandard AS 2001.2.9 “Determination of Stiffness ofCloth”. The results vary with temperature, as shown

TABLE 3 – Weight per sq. metre of clear PVC sheet

Thickness Weight kg/m2

0.50mm (.020 ins) 0.635

0.75mm (.030 ins) 0.95

1.00mm (.040 ins) 1.27

TABLE 4 – Flexibility as defined by AS 2324

DIOP Equivalent BS Classification content “Softness”

(pphr) number

Soft Greater than 50 Greater than 38

Medium Between 32 & 50 Between 8 & 38

Semi-Rigid Between 20 & 32 Between 1 & 8


-10

0 10 20 30 40

6 0

50

40

30

BE

ND

ING

MO

DU

LUS

µN

/m2

ºCELSIUS

in FIGURE 3, with the Bending Modulus relativelyconstant until room temperature (i.e. 20º Celsius), and declining thereafter. The higher the temperature,the less stiff the material. Similar results could beexpected with the Achilles’ products.

FIGURE 3Variation of bending modulus

AS 2001.2.9 with temperature for “Vybak”(0.75mm thickness).

Dimensional StabilityBoth the calendering and extrusion processes

result in considerable forces being applied to thesheeting as it is wound on the roll under tension.These applied forces result in residual stresses in thefinished sheet, which are released when the materialis cut off the roll. Until then, the sheet is constrainedin both longitudinal and lateral directions, andresidual stress cannot be relieved.

Typically, the release of these residual stressesresults in contraction in length in a direction alongthe roll, and expansion in width in a direction acrossthe roll. The amount of contraction and expansion isdependent on both temperature and time.

At room temperature these residual stresses aregenerally relieved over a period of a few days. Athigher temperatures, the process is accelerated, andsamples heated in an oven for ten minutes provide

PVC “dough” before extrusion

an indication of the extent of dimensional changethat could be experienced. Typical results for asample of “Rollclear” are shown in TABLE 5. Theresults for the extruded “Rollglass” could be expectedto be about 1% higher.

Based on the figures in TABLE 5, up to 3.5%shrinkage along the roll, and up to 2.0% expansionacross the roll can be expected due to stress relief.The actual amount will depend on the stressesinduced, and varies considerably between batches.Experience has shown that in most cases, butcertainly not always, the actual dimensional changeis less than the figures shown.

“Vybak” is reheated during the press polishingproduction process, and thus is inherently stressrelieved. Any dimensional change experienced isprobably due to thermal effects. This has been testedaccording to AWTA 56 -1993 (modified) across therange of temperatures likely to be experienced in the field, and the results are listed in TABLE 6.Compared to a sheet conditioned at 20º Celsius,some shrinkage in both directions can be expected at lower temperatures, and expansion at highertemperatures. At 40º Celsius, the results show somecontraction in both directions, which is probablyevidence of stress relief.

AS 2324 - 1979 has its own special test for dimen-sional stability. A test specimen is placed in a hot (80º Celsius) water bath for fifteen minutes, removedand allowed to cool in air at room temperature. Amaximum dimensional change of three percent isspecified.

TABLE 6 – Dimensional stability of “Vybak” sheet (0.75mm)

Mean linear change compared to a similar Length Widthspecimen at 20º Celsius (%) (%)when exposed to:–

48 hours at -10º Celsius -0.08 -0.03

48 hours at +30º Celsius 0.00 0.03

48 hours at +40º Celsius -0.05 -0.03

TABLE 5 – Dimensional change ofcalendered PVC subjected to heat

TemperatureContraction in Expansion in

(ºC)length (%) width (%)

along the roll across the roll

40º 0.0% 0.5%

60º -1.5% 0.5%

80º -1.5% 1.0%

100º -2.0% 1.5%

120º -3.0% 2.0%

140º -3.5% 2.0%


PROPERTIES AND TEST METHODS (continued)

A sample of “Rollclear” (thickness 0.75mm) wastested to AS 2001.2.3 -1988 “Determination of thebreaking force and extension of textile fabric”. Thetest is similar to the Japanese and British tests, butthe sample is 100mm in length by 25mm in width,and the results are expressed as Newtons/25mm.The ultimate load of “Rollclear” was determined as 409 N/25mm in the warp (machine direction) and364 N/25mm in the weft (cross) direction, whichcorrespond to 16.7 kgf/cm and 14.9 kgf/cm respect-ively. The elongation at failure in either direction wasapproximately the same at 350%.

AS 2324, for “medium” grade sheeting, calls up aminimum failure tensile stress of 17Mpa, and corre-sponding elongation of 180%. “Vybak”, “Rollclear”and “Rollglass” comply.

The average load/elongation curve from this testis reproduced as FIGURE 4, which shows thelimitation imposed by the extraordinarily highdeformation values associated with this material. Forexample, a deformation of 10%, which effectivelyrenders the product useless in practice, occurs at 35N/25mm, which is only one tenth of its ultimate load. The safe working load of the material ideallyshould be within the elastic limit, which is notdeterminable from this test. In the absence of anyother information, it is recommended that theproduct be stressed to no more than one hundredthof the specified ultimate tensile strength.

FIGURE 4 – Load/elongation curve for Achilles “Rollclear”

0.75mm thickness.

Tear resistance has been determined by AS2001.2.10 “Determination of the tear resistance ofwoven textile fabrics by the wing-rip method”. In thistest, a 200mm by 130mm sample is cut to a depth of

0 100 200 300 400

0.4

0.3

0.2

0.1

0.0

DISPLACEMENT mm (also %)

LOA

D k

N (a

lso

kN/2

5mm

)

F F

SAMPLE SIZE: 100mm x 25mm

Failure Load10% ELONGATIONOCCURS AT ONLY

ONE TENTH OF THEULTIMATE LOAD

Tensile Strength, Elongation and Tear Strength

The tensile strength and elongation are relatedand both are measured during the same test. Aspecimen of a specific size is cut from a sheet andplaced in two clamps which are pulled apart at auniform rate of strain, until failure. The load at failureis measured, and also the elongation, which is theincrease in length of the specimen, expressed as a

percentage of the original length.Japanese, British and Australiantests differ in the size and shape ofthe specimen.

In the Japanese Standard (JISK-6732), to which “Rollglass” and“Rollclear” are tested, the sampleis dumbbell shaped 12 cm longand one centimetre wide at itsnarrowest point. The ultimatetensile strength is expressed as akg force, which in fact is a kg forceper cm width. Typical results for“Rollglass” and “Rollclear” arereproduced in TABLE 7. For bothmaterials, strength varies withdirection, being about 10% less

across the roll than along it. The figures shown inTABLE 7 are along the roll. Although strength varieswith thickness, elongation at failure is virtually thesame at approximately 325% for thicknesses between0.5mm and 1.0mm.

“Vybak” is measured to British Standard BS 2782,and the specification calls for an ultimate tensilestrength to lie between 20Mpa and 27Mpa, andequivalent elongation between 200% and 300%.These results are expressed as a stress, and can beconverted to a kg force per cm length for differentthicknesses, as shown in TABLE 7 (using an averagevalue of 23.5Mpa). When normalised in this way, theelastic properties of both the Wardle Storeys’ product(“Vybak”), and Achilles’ products (“Rollglass” and“Rollclear”) are virtually the same. For this reason,more detailed testing of tensile properties toAustralian Standards was carried out only on one ofthe products (“Rollclear”)

TABLE 7 – Normalised results for ultimate tensile strength

Product ThicknessStrength(kgf/cm)

VYBAK 0.75mm (.030 ins) 18(BS 2782) 1.00mm (.040 ins) 24

ROLLCLEAR/ 0.50mm (.020 ins) 12.3ROLLGLASS 0.75mm (.030 ins) 18.7(JIS K-6732)

1.00mm (.040 ins) 25.1

Measurement of tensile strength.


Visual distortion of anobject viewed througha calendered surfacecaused by unevenrefraction of light.

Distortion reducedby the presspolished surface.

Observed

Actual

Observed

Actual

140 mm, and each wing pulled in different directionsat a uniform rate until tearing occurs. The results areexpressed in Newtons, and somewhat obviously vary with thickness. The results for “Rollclear” areshown in TABLE 8, and show considerable varia-bility, namely due to a tendency of the sample todelaminate when stressed in this fashion. The effectwas so pronounced in attempted “tongue tear” tests,that these were abandoned.

AS 2324 has its own tensile test method, which isvery similar to that outlined in the Japanese StandardJIS K-6732 “Polyvinyl Chloride films for Agriculture”(section 7.6), the only difference being the rate of jawseparation in the tensile tester. In this test, a right-angled notch is cut into a sample of specified shape,and each end pulled apart. The force required to tearthe sample apart is measured. AS 2324 specifies aminimum value of tear strength of 50 Newtons/millimetre. The results for one millimetre thick“Rollglass” and “Vybak” are 95 N/mm and 124 N/mmrespectively.

Visual Light Transmission,Haze and UV Stability

Light passing through a clear PVC material isrefracted at each surface. Small imperfections in thesurface cause the otherwise parallel rays to berefracted at different angles, as shown in FIGURE 5,which distorts the image seen through the material.The smoother the surface, the less the visualdistortion. The degree of distortion is subjectivewhen assessed by the human eye, but can bemeasured by sophisticated electronic apparatus builtspecifically for the purpose.

Both Achilles and Wardle Storeys use similar, butdifferent apparatus for doing so, and the resultscannot be directly compared. Achilles test toJapanese Standard JIS K-6714, and Wardle Storeys toUS Standard ASTM D 1003, which is also specified inthe US Federal Motor Vehicle Standard ANSI Z26. The tests measure visual light transmission and haze,

TABLE 8 – Tear resistance of “Rollclear”

Force required (Newtons) to tear in the length direction:Thickness in millimetres and (Inches)

0.5 (0.020) 0.75 (0.030) 1.00 (0.040)

Mean 19.2 48.2 68.1

Maximum 19.9 60.7 87.9

Minimum 18.1 37.6 52.1

Force required (Newtons) to tear in the width direction:Thickness in millimetres and (Inches)

0.5 (0.020) 0.75 (0.030) 1.00 (0.040)

Mean 16.2 31.3 57.2

Maximum 17.3 34.1 61.9

Minimum 15.2 28.1 52.7

TABLE 9 – Optical characteristics of “Rollglass”

Before Conditioning:–

Haze Value (%) 2.2%

Light Transmission (%) 85.6%

After Soaking:–

Haze Value (%) 5.0%


After Rubbing:–

Haze Value (%) 2.6%


both before and after the test specimen hasundergone a degree of simulated weathering or otherconditioning. The visual light transmission is definedas the amount of light passing through the material,as opposed to that reflected, and haze is the amountof scattering of the transmitted light.

FIGURE 5

Cross section of clear plastic window

The Achilles’ test results for “Rollglass”are shownin TABLE 9. Since clear PVC absorbs moisture, thetests were repeated after soaking the sample in waterfor 24 hours at room temperature, designed tosimulate the effect of changes in humidity; and alsoafter rubbing the surface 1000 times with a cottoncloth under a one kg load, designed to simulate theabrasive effect of cleaning.



The comparative transparency of “Rollclear” and“Rollglass” has been assessed in a “Visual Light-Scattering Tester” (a more sophisticated apparatusthan a haze meter used in JIS K-6714), whichmeasures haze over wavelengths of light discernableto the human eye. The results are shown in TABLE10, and demonstrate the better optical transparencyof “Rollglass”, particularly on inclined angles.

The US Standard ASTM D1003 requires the lightscattering test to be carried out on specimens beforeand after exposure to an accelerated UV test andsimulated weathering. The results for “Vybak” areexpressed in TABLE 11, and compared with therequirements of the US Federal Motor VehicleStandard.

Ultra-violet light is the single most importantdeterminant of the life of polished clear. Unless theUV inhibitors added are adequate, the material willvery quickly yellow and ultimately breakdown underthe action of sunlight. For this reason, Wardle Storeyshave subjected “Vybak” to far more rigorous testingthan US federal regulations require. A sample of“Vybak” was subjected to two years continuous 24hrexposure to UV-A radiation in a wet/dry cycle.“Vybak” showed no discolouring after this exhaustivetest. The comparative luminous transmission tests,undertaken by the AWTA in Melbourne, are shown inTABLE 12.

FlammabilityPVC is an unusual material in that in rigid form it

is inherently non-flammable, due to the effect ofchlorine, but the addition of plasticiser dramaticallyincreases its flammability. Clear flexible PVC isparticularly flammable, and without the addition offlame retardants, would be unlikely to pass the mostbasic of regulatory standards.

This has particular ramifications for its use inclear blinds on buildings, which are subject toregulation under the Building Code of Australia, ortemporary structures in NSW and Victoria (see pageopposite).

The test methods specified in the regulations are either AS 1530 part II or AS 1530 part III, or both.These are distinctly different tests. Part II is a “Strip Flame” test in which a small piece (‘strip’) ofmaterial is subjected to an alcohol flame for severalseconds, and the burning behaviour observed. Anempirical “Flammability Index” is calculated frommeasurements of how quickly or to what extent thespecimen burns, and the heat generated. This“Flammability Index” is expressed on a scale of zero(low risk) to 100 (high risk).

The AS 1530 part III test is designed to simulatethe characteristics of materials subjected to theeffects of radiant energy from a fire developingelsewhere in the room. A test specimen 600mm by450mm is subject to an intense source of radiatedheat and its burning behaviour from ignition toextinction observed. The results are expressed in theform of four indices, sometimes termed “Early FireHazard Indices” (which should not be confused withthe “Flammability Index” of AS 1530 pt II.) Only twoof these indices - the “Spread of Flame Index”, andthe “Smoke Developed Index” are referred to in theBuilding Code.

TABLE 10 – Comparative haze values for “Rollclear” and “Rollglass”

Inclined angle of the surface (from vertical) “Rollclear” “Rollglass”

90% 6.9% 6.1%

45% 8.1% 6.9%

60% 11.2% 7.9%

TABLE 11 – Results of luminous transmittance test ASTM D1003

Transmittence (%) Before weathering After weathering Decreaseand UV exposure and UV exposure

Result for “Vybak” 79.3% to 80.4% 77.4% to 77.9% 2.4% to 3.5%

ANSI Standard Z26 70% (min) 70% (min) 5.0% (max)

TABLE 12 – Results of luminoustransmittence test for “Vybak”, before

and after two years continuous exposure to a UV-A radiation at 50% Celsius

Before After weathering and weathering and

UV exposure UV exposure

Transmittence (%) 83.5% 82.9%

Haze value 0.012 0.061

Flexible clear used as temporary glazing in a commercial building.


The “Spread of Flame Index” is a measure of howquickly a fire propagates, expressed on a scale of 0 to10. The higher the value, the worse the result. The“Smoke Developed Index” is also expressed on ascale of 0 to 10, with each increment representing abifold increase of the smoke emitted.

The test results for “Rollclear”, and flame retarded“Rollclear FR” are shown in TABLE 13. The relevantcertificates are attached as APPENDIX B.

“Vybak” meets the requirements of the USStandard ANSI Z26.5 for flammability. This is a “stripburn” test, where a sample piece is ignited, and therate of burning measured. Vybak’s rate of burn underflame was less than the maximum allowed and wasself-extinguishing when the flame was removed.

Flammability – Building Code of AustraliaRequirements for Clear Blinds.

Clear PVC is commonly used for drop downblinds or screen enclosures in domestic andcommercial buildings, and use in this context may be affected by the prescriptive requirements of theBuilding Code of Australia.

First published in 1990, the Building Code of Australia has set flammability standards for“attachments to ceilings, walls or floors”. Theserequirements are outlined in Section C “FireResistance” and Specification C 1.10 “Fire HazardProperties”, and refer to AS 1530 test methods andresults.

The maximum allowable test results specified inthe Building Code for various types of buildings aresummarised as follows:-

• There are no requirements for single domesticdwellings.

• Materials used in attached dwellings, multipleoccupancy buildings (including boarding housesand hotels), and most commercial buildings (suchas cafes, restaurants, offices and schools) aresubject to maximum limits as follows:-

Spread of Flame Index 9 (max)

Smoke Developed Index 8 (max)

• The requirements are much more stringent inunits, hostels, hotels and places of public assembly,if the blinds or screens are located in a publiccorridor which is a means of egress to a fire isolated passageway, or a fire isolated stairway, oran external stairway used instead. In this case themaximum limits are:-

Spread of Flame Index 0 (max)

Smoke Developed Index 5 (max)

• NSW has special provisions applicable to assemblybuildings used as a place of public entertainment.Any material used as a blind must have aFlammability Index of no more than six. Inaddition, the blind must have a label affixed statingthe name of the manufacturer, and the tradenameand description of the materials used.

Flammability – NSW and VictorianRequirements for Temporary Structures.

NSW is the only state that has formal provisionsincluded in the Building Code of Australia fortemporary structures used as places of publicentertainment. Fabric that is used in the con-struction of a temporary structure must have:-

(a) A Flammability Index of not more than 6 whereused within a height of 4 metres from the base ofthe structure, or in an air supported temporarystructure without other supporting framework.

(b) A Flammability Index of not more than 25 inevery other case.

Victoria requires an occupancy permit for tents,marquees and booths with a floor area over 100m2.Materials may not have a Smoke Developed Index ofmore than 7, if the Spread of Flame Index is zero. Ifthe latter is greater than zero (to a maximumallowable value of 6), the Smoke Developed Indexmust be no greater than 3 (for materials used in theroof ) or 5 (for materials used in the walls).

TABLE 13 – AS 1530 pt II and part IIIflammability test results

“Rollclear” “Rollclear FR”

Spread of FlameIndex 0 0

Smoke DevelopedIndex 9 6

FlammabilityIndex 3 not tested

Flexible PVC clear glazing in a tent.

PVC clear blinds provide wind protection to the upper balcony of a house.

14 THE CONTENTS OF THIS TECHNICAL GUIDE ARE COPYRIGHT JANUARY 2006. NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT EXPLICIT PERMISSION.

PRODUCT WARRANTY

Nolan Warehouses Limited WarrantyNolan O’Rourke and Company P/L, ABN 80 000 021 492, trading asNolan Warehouses, guarantees for a period of two years from date oforiginal purchase that the clear PVC marketed by the company under the trade-names “Vybak”, “Rollclear”, and “Rollglass” will not become

unserviceable due to UV degradation or under normal operating conditions.

Nolan Warehouses further warrants the clear PVC material meets allpublished factory specifications current at the time of manufacture.

This warranty does not cover scratching, shrinkage less than factory specified tolerances, ordamage due to abuse or improper cleaning and maintenance. A further condition is that a regularcleaning programme must be followed complying with the recommendations in our literature.

The above guarantee is applicable to the original purchaser only. When a complaint is received, the determination of the manufacturer or recognised industry association is the sole basis on which replacement or refund is made. The liability of Nolan Warehouses is limited under this warranty to replacement of material only, or refund of the original purchase price, on a prorated basis of life served.

i.e. 1st year 100 %2nd year 50 %.

Liability for negligence, or any consequential loss is expressly excluded.


Chemical PropertiesPolyvinyl chloride is a linear polymer comprised

of a linked chain of CH2 molecules similar topolyethylene, but with every fourth carbon atomsupplanted by a chlorine atom. The addition ofplasticisers, which are synthetic oils, softens andadds pliability to the otherwise rigid material. Themost commonly used plasticisers are Phthalates (e.g.Di Octyl Phthalate (DOP) and Di-Iso Decyl Phthalate(DIDP). Other compounds or elements can be addeddepending on the desired end-use such as:-

• Adipates – a plasticiser added to maintainstability at low temperatures.

• Phosphate, Antimony, Zinc and Aluminium –to provide fire retardant properties.

• Metals e.g. Lead, Barium, Zinc and Tin – to stabilise the PVC structure.

• Calcium Carbonate – a filler to provide bulk.

• Pigments - for colour or tint.

• UV Absorbers/Antioxidants – to give outdoorweathering properties.

• Antistatic additives.

• Bacteriacides/Fungicides – to inhibit mildew.

Clear flexible PVC is resistant to most inorganicliquids, including moderately concentrated acidsand alkalis, and aqueous salt solutions. It is alsounaffected by aliphatic hydrocarbons, the principalconstituents of most oils and greases. It is attacked bypowerful oxidising agents (such as hydrogenperoxide) acetone, alcohols and ammonia, chemicalssometimes found in some industrial cleaners. Asummary of the chemical resistance of clear PVC iscontained in APPENDIX A.

Weather simulator helps determine how materials stand up to sun, heat and moisture.

15THE CONTENTS OF THIS TECHNICAL GUIDE ARE COPYRIGHT JANUARY 2006. NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT EXPLICIT PERMISSION.

APPENDIX A

AAcetaldehyde 40% S

100% UAcetic acid 10% S

10%-60% S80% L

100% UAcetic ester UAcetone UAcetylene SAdipic acid SAchohols:

butyl – see butanolethyl – see ethanolfurfuryl Umethyl – see methanolpropargyl – see prop-2-yn-1-olpropyl – see propanol

Aldehydes except Uacetaldehyde and formaldehyde

Aliphatic esters UAliphatic halogen compounds UAlum SAluminium

chloride Sflouride Shydroxide Ssulphate S

Amoniagas Sliquid Usolution Sbicarbonate –see ammonium hydrogen carbonatecarbonate Schloride Sflouride 20% Shydrogen carbonate Shydrosulphide diluted Shydroxide – see amonia solutionmetaphosphate Snitrate Spersulphate Ssulphate Ssulphide SCthiocyanate S

Amyl acetate UAmyl chloride UAniline

100% Uhydrochloride Usulphate U

Anthraquinone sulphonic acidaq. suspension up to 30ºC S

Antiformine 2% aq. SAntimony chloride SAqua regia UAromatic nitro compounds UAromatic solvents UArsenic acid 80% S

BBarium

carbonate Schloride Shydroxide Ssulphate Ssulphide SC

Beer SBenzaldehyde UBenzene UBenzenesulphonic acid UBenzoic acid SBismuth carbonate SBisulphite liquor (cont. SO2) SBleach lye 12% active chlorine SBorax – see disodium tetraborateBoric acid SBrass plating solution SBrine SBromic acid SBromine

10% aq. solution Lgas – moist Uliquid U

Bromomethane UButadiene 100% SButane gas SButanediol 10% S

60% U100% UButanol SButyl acetate UButyl phenol UButyric acid 20% S

100% U

CCalcium

carbonate Schlorate Schloride Shypochlorite Snitrate Ssulphate S

Camphor oil UCarbon

disulphide Udioxide, dry Sdioxide, moist Smonoxide Stetrachloride U

Carbonic acid SCastor oil SChloramin SChloric acid 20% solution S

Chlorine100% dry gas L

above 5% moist gas U1-5% moist gas L0-5% moist gas S

liquid Usolution (chlorine water) L

treated water SChloroacetic acid SChlorobenzene UChloroethane UChloroform UChloromethane UChlorosulphonic acid LChrome alum SChromic acid 50% SChromium plating solution – hard SCider SCitric acid SCoconut fatty acid SCoconut oil alcohols SCopper

cyanide Splating solution, high-speed Ssulphate (sat.) S

Cotton seed oil SCresol 90% UCresylic acid 50% UCrotonaldehyde UCupric

chloride Sflouride Snitrate Ssulphate S

Cuprous chloride SCyanide

cadmium plating solution Scopper plating solution S

Cyclohexane UCyclohexanol U

DDensodrin W SDetergents SDevelopers – photographic SDextrine SDextrose SDiazo compounds SDibutyl phthalate LDichloroethane UDichloromethane U1,2-dichloropropane UDiethylene glycol – see digolDiethyl ether UDiglycolic acid –see oxydiacetic acidDigol SDimethyl sulphoxide UDioctyl phthalate UDodecanoic acid S

Chemical Resistance of Flexible Clear PVC @ 20ºC

S – Satisfactory L – Limited Application U – Unsatisfactory C – Colour Change

16 THE CONTENTS OF THIS TECHNICAL GUIDE ARE COPYRIGHT JANUARY 2006. NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT EXPLICIT PERMISSION.

APPENDIX A (continued)

EEmulsifiers SEssential oils UEsters UEthanediol SEthanol 100% S

96% S40% S

Ethers UEthyl

acetate Uacrylate 100% Ubutyrate Uchloride – see chloroethane

Ethylenedichloride – see dichloroethaneglycol – see ethanedioloxide U

FFats SFatty acids SFerric

chloride Snitrate Ssulphate S

Ferrouschloride Ssulphate S

Fixing Bath - photographic SFluorine UFluosilicic acid 32% SFormaldehyde (formalin) 40% SFormic acid 100% L

50% SFruit pulp SFruit juice drinks S

GGases

lighting - vary with aromatic content Llighting - free from benzole Sroasting S

Gas liquors LGelatin SGlucose SGlycerol (glycerine) SGlycine 10% SGlycollic acid 37% SGlycocol – see glycineGrape sugar SGold plating solution S

HHexamine UHydrobromic acid 50% SHydrochloric acid

concentrated S10% S

Hydrocyanic acid SHydrofluoric acid 100% U

60% U40% S

Hydrofluosilicic acid 32% SHydrogen S

bromide Schloride dry Speroxide 95% Lperoxide 90% Lperoxide 30% Sphosphide Ssulphide S

Hydroxylamine sulphate 12% SHydrosulphite 10% SHydrochlorous acid S

IIndium plating solution SIodine, ethanolic solution (tincture) UIsopropyl nitrate U

KKerosene SKetones U

LLactic acid 100% U

10% SLauric acid – see dodecanoic acidLead

acetate Stetraethyl – see tetraethyl- lead

Linoleic acid SLinseed oil S

MMagnesium

carbonate Schloride Shydroxide Snitrate Ssulphate S

Maelic acid SMalic acid SMeat juices SMecuric

chloride Scyanide S

Mercurous nitrate SMercury SMersol D S

Methanol 100% S10% S

Methylamine LMethyl

bromide – see bromomethanechloride – see chloromethaneethyl ketone Umethacrylate monomer U

Methylated spirits SMethylene chloride –see dichloromethaneMethysulphonic acid 100% SMilk SMineral oil SMolasses SMonochloroacetic acid –see chloroacetic acidMowilith D S

NNaphtha SNaphthalene UNekal BX SNickel salts SNicotene SNitric acid

concentrated 98% U50-65% L

50% S30-50% S

25% SNitrobenzene UNitrous moist fumes L

OOctyl cresol UOils

AV/CAT SAviation Rust Ban 621 SCastrol GTX Sdiesel oil SEsso Aviation Turbo oil LEsso Extra 20W/30 Lfurnace oil SGulf Oil Hydrosil 41 Spenetrating oil S

(99% paraffin, 1% wintergreen)Shell Tellus 27 Ssturgeon oil S

Oleic acid SOleum fumes 10% LOrthophosphoric acid SOxalic acid SOxydiacetic acid SOxygen SOzone 100% S

10% S



17THE CONTENTS OF THIS TECHNICAL GUIDE ARE COPYRIGHT JANUARY 2006. NO PART MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT EXPLICIT PERMISSION.

APPENDIX A (continued)

PPalmitic acid SParaffin

emulsion Swax S

Perchloric acid SPetrol free from aromatics SPhenol 90% LPhenylhydrazine UPhenylhdrazine hydrochloride LPhosgene

gas Sliquid U

Phosphoric acid –see orthophosphoric acidPhosphorous yellow SPhosphorus

pentoxide Strichloride U

Photographicdevelopers Sfixing bath Semulsion S

Picric acid solution SPotassium

bicarbonate –see potassium hydrogen carbonatebichromate –see potassium dichromateborate 1% Sbromate 10% Sbromide Scarbonate Schromate 40% Scyanide Sdichromate Sferricyanide Sferri/ferrocyanide Sferrocyanide Sflouride Shydrogen carbonate Shydroxide Snitrate Sperborate Sperchlorate 1% Spermanganate 15% Spersulphate Ssulphate Sthiosulphate S

Propane gas and liquid SPropanol SPropylene dichloride –see 1, 2-dichloropropaneProp-2-yn-1-ol 70% SPyridine UPyrogallic acid 2% S

RRhodium plating solution S

SSalicylic acid SSea water SSilicic acid SSilver

cyanide Snitrate Splating solution S

Soap solution SSodium

acetate Sbenzoate Sbisulphate Sborate Sbromide Scarbonate Schlorate Schloride Schromate Scyanide Sferrocyanide Sflouride Shydroxide up to 60% Shypochlorite concentrated Slauryl ethyl sulphate Sorthophosphate Sdi-sodium orthophosphate Snitrate Ssulphate Ssulphide SCdi-sodium tetraborate Sthiosulphate S

Spirits SSpinning bath solution

cont. CS2 700mg/lcont. CS2 200mg/lcont. CS2 100mg/l S

Stannic chloride SStannous chloride SStarch solution SStearic acid SSugar, syrup, jams and preserves SSulphites SSulphur S

dioxide dry Sdioxide wet Sdioxide liquid 100% Ltrioxide dilute L

Sulphuric acidfuming U

98% U96% L

up to 75% SSulphurous acid S

TTallow STannic acid 10% STartaric acid 10% STetraethyl- lead STetrahydrofuran UThionyl chloride UTin plating solution SToluene UTransformer oil STrichloroethylene UTriethanolamine STrilone STrimethylpropane – 10% Ssee sodium orthophosphateTritolyl (tricresyl) phosphate UTurpentine S

UUrea up to 30% SUrine S

VVegetable oils SVinegars SVinyl acetate UViscose (rayon) spinning solution S

WWater S

distilled Shard Ssoft S

Waste gasescarbon dioxide Scarbon monoxide Shydrochloric acid Shydroflouric acid Snitrous oxides

traces only Shigher concentrations U

sulphur dioxide dry Ssulphur trioxide, oleum D Lsulphuric acid traces only S

Wax alcohols SWines S

XXylene U

YYeast S

ZZinc

chloride Splating solution Ssulphate S



APPENDIX B (3 pages)

18

Wardle Storeys Ltd – Company ProfileIn the Australian marine industry, “Vybak” is the name synonymous with “clears”, that is, clear plastic windows used on canopiesfor boats. This product, available in a range of thicknesses, sizes and tints, hasbeen distributed in Australia by NolanWarehouses for over thirty years.

“Vybak” is produced in the United Kingdomby Wardle Storeys, manufacturer of bothrigid and flexible PVC sheet, and other

diverse products such as parachutes and survival systems. The companywas established by Bernard Wardle in the late 19th century as BritishXylonite, producing celluloid which in turn was used to manufacturefountain pens and spectacle frames. In sheet form, it was also used as aflexible glazing material prior to the development of PVC.

The company’s present name arose from the acquisition of StoreysIndustrial Products in 1983, and subsequent public listing of the amal-gamated companies. The group employs 1500 people in five productioncentres in the UK, and exports worldwide. Its products are found in all typesof marine vessels, aircraft and motor vehicles. Examples are sun visors, doorpanels, wall cladding, and those applications well known in Australia –flexible windows for convertible tops, tents and boats, and roll-up blinds incommercial buildings. The highly UV stabilised “Vybak” meets US auto andmilitary specifications, and is supplied to Rolls Royce and Jaguar Rover.

Wardle Storeys’ Brantham site

PVC calendering

Achilles Corporation – Company ProfileEstablished in 1947, Achilles is a Japanese listedpublic company with manufacturing facilitieslocated worldwide, and has a sales turnover of 110 billion yen (A$2.2 billion). The company’sactivities are categorised into four divisions –Footwear, Plastics, Industrial Materials andRubberised Cloth.

The Nolan branded “Rollclear” and “Rollglass” aremanufactured by the Plastics Division, at themodern Ashikaga factory near Tokyo. These andsimilar products are widely used for agriculturalgreenhouses, industrial curtains and screens, roll-up blinds and boat enclosures. Speciality filmsincorporating flame retardants, tints and conduc-tive prints for use as welding screens, insectrepellent blinds, and anti-static curtains are alsomanufactured at the plant.

Apart from its reputation for the manufacture ofquality flexible PVC, Achilles is a well known brandof inflatable rubber dinghies.

Achilles Factory, Ashikaga City.

SYDNEY3 Bradford Street, Alexandria

P.O. Box 246, Rosebery, NSW 1445, AustraliaTelephone: (02) 9669 3333

Fax: (02) 9669 3266

NEWCASTLE66 Orlando Road, Lambton

Telephone: (02) 4957 7766Fax: (02) 4952 6737

BRISBANE11 Barrinia Street, SpringwoodTelephone: (07) 3808 1888

Fax: (07) 3208 0868

MELBOURNE55 Cleeland Road, Oakleigh South

Telephone: (03) 9545 5588Fax: (03) 9545 5582

ADELAIDE4 Paget Street, Ridleyton

Telephone: (08) 8340 7979Fax: (08) 8340 7877

PERTH168 Edward Street, Perth

Telephone: (08) 9328 4777Fax: (08) 9328 4719

[email protected]

www.nolans.com.au


Documents

TECHNICAL GUIDE NUMBER THREE - Nolan Group · Nolan Warehouses, established in 1920, is a merchant wholesaler whose products can be segregated into three main groupings: Industrial