Unlike the Rose+Bopla compression molded and GFK fiberglass enclosures, our polycarbonate and ABS enclosures are affected by weather, particularly, ultra-violet light.

The quality of most materials deteriorate if they are exposed to the weather for long periods of time.

For ABS moldings, exposure to direct sunlight is harmful. Yellowing of the material gradually leads to changes in most color shades. The surface of the moldings lose their gloss, become harder and rough. If objects damaged in this way are subjected to mechanical load (eg: impact), a marked reduction in their initial toughness is noticeable, particularly if the damaged side is situated in the tensile zone of deflection with prolonged exposure to ultra violet rays, fine micro cracks will appear. Fine micro cracks act as notches. The original micro-crack damage itself only extends to a slight depth, and polishing the weathered surface restores its original toughness.

To decide whether ABS or polycarbonate can be used depends on the extent to which it is affected by the above mentioned changes, the design of the part, and its application.

For example, a part which suffers surface damage by impact in the compressive zone has a much better performance than a part suffering impact in the tensile zone.

Polycarbonate is affected by weathering, but due to its general technical properties being higher in performance than ABS, the polycarbonate parts will retain higher mechanical values after equal exposure to weather.