I would like to discuss with teams.
We use plastic sheet to wrap around the robot sides, and this constantly getting hit by other robot in the match. So I like to use the most study material possible.
Which of the following legal plastic material is most durable ?
I appreciate the discussion
CJ
From an engineering perspective, defining “sturdy” and “durable” are a bit qualitative. Here’s some engineering definitions to consider:
Strength: the ability to resist deformation…for metals and some types of plastics there is a point where the material begins to deform permanently (yield strength), and for all materials the point where it breaks (tensile strength)
Toughness: the ability to resist impact loading. Usually toughness inversely proportional to strength; that is, tough materials are not as strong, while strong materials start becoming brittle (the opposite of tough). This would be an apt comparison between polycarbonate and ABS
Stiffness/rigidity: engineers define this based on the Modulus of Elasticity. A material property surprisingly independent of strength and toughness. Higher modulus = higher stiffness
Fatigue strength: perhaps the most measurable factor for “durability”, it’s usually defined as the strength level where, under cyclic loading, a sample won’t break after 10^8 load cycles.
Short answer:
If we want to narrow the lists to what is easily available to teams, the ABS would be the choice for toughness (here’s our favorite source: 1/16" ABS Plastic Sheet 12" x 24" x 0.0625", 3 Pack, for VEX Robotics Plastic Sheets - Robosource.net). It’s not as rigid as polycarbonate, but it’s pretty hard to break.
If you have a source (like MSC supply), then Acetal is the strongest/toughest of the whole list. Glass-filled grades of Acetal (or Nylon) would provide even more strength and rigidity.
i use nylon and its pretty good havent had a pice break yet its pretty flexible
