BS 3757:1978

This standard BS 3757:1978 Specification for rigid PVC sheet is classified in these ICS categories:

• 83.140.10 Films and sheets

This British Standard specifies requirements for rigid PVC sheet of nominal thickness 0.25 mm and above. Rigid PVC sheet is classified into six types as shown in table 1, and is available in a wide range of colours. Types A and B are manufactured by press lamination or press surfacing and types C and D by calendering or extrusion.

Table 1. Type descriptions

Type	Description (see note)
A1 C1	General purpose sheet suitable for most applications and fabricating techniques.
A3 C3	Sheet similar to types A1 and C1 but with specific impact strength. The chemical resistance of these types may be inferior to that of types A1 and C1.
B D	Sheet particularly suitable for deep vacuum forming. These types are generally characterized by a lower softening point and the maximum service temperature of articles made from them may consequently be reduced.

NOTE. The descriptions of the various types in table 1 are given for general guidance, but the suitability of the material for a particular application depends on several factors and the supplier’s advice should always be sought before a final choice is made, particularly where the application involves contact with chemicals. The suitability of the product for any chemical application should be assessed on background knowledge and service conditions required, and, if necessary, tests relevant to the specific applications should be carried out. Where the sheet is to be used in contact with foodstuffs or potable water, discussion with the supplier is essential since selected formulations are normally required in such cases. Intending users of rigid PVC sheet for foodstuffs contact applications are advised to consult the ‘Code of practice for plastics in foodstuffs contact applications’ published by the British Plastics Federation, 5 Belgrave Square, London SW1 × 8PH, with the cooperation of the British Industrial Biological Research Association.

Requirements for rigid PVC sheet of nominal thickness 0.25 mm and above, classified into 6 types according to method of manufacture and intended use.