Application and Advantages of Polycarbonate in Travel Luggage

Application and Advantages of Polycarbonate in Travel Luggage

Characteristics of Polycarbonate

Polycarbonate (PC) is a colorless, transparent, and tough thermoplastic with excellent comprehensive properties. With a density of about 1.2g/cm³, it is relatively lightweight, giving polycarbonate luggage and polycarbonate suitcase a significant weight advantage. Additionally, PC boasts extremely high impact resistance-250-300 times that of ordinary glass and 30 times that of acrylic-retaining its performance even in low temperatures. It also features superior heat and weather resistance, suitable for long-term use in temperatures ranging from -60°C to 120°C without significant performance degradation.

Applications in Travel Luggage

Case Material

Polycarbonate is an ideal material for travel case bodies. Many high-end polycarbonate trolley bags and trolley bag polycarbonate on the market, such as those from renowned brands like Samsonite and TraveRE, utilize PC. These cases are thin, light, and sturdy, reducing the burden on travelers. For example, a 28-inch polycarbonate suitcase typically weighs 3-4kg, while the same size case made of traditional ABS material weighs 5-6kg-approximately 30%-40% lighter.

 

Telescopic Handles and Wheels

Beyond the case body, PC is widely used for polycarbonate luggage handles and wheels. Handles require strength and toughness to withstand dragging forces, and PC's high strength and fatigue resistance ensure long-term durability. PC wheels offer excellent wear resistance and low noise, gliding smoothly on various surfaces. Tests show PC wheels last about 50% longer than ordinary plastic ones.

Advantage Analysis

Lightweight and Portable

The lightness of PC makes polycarbonate trolley bags and carryon luggage highly portable, reducing physical strain during long trips. According to IATA regulations, checked baggage has weight limits, and lightweight PC luggage allows travelers to pack more without exceeding restrictions.

 

Durable and Impact-Resistant

PC's high impact resistance protects contents from collisions and pressure during transport. Experiments show a PC case dropped from 1.5 meters remains undamaged, while traditional materials may crack or break. Its weather resistance also ensures consistent performance in extreme temperatures, from hot summers to cold winters.

 

Stylish and Aesthetic

PC's transparency and gloss enable polycarbonate suitcase designs in various colors and styles. Surface treatments like coating and printing enhance fashion and personalization, meeting consumer aesthetic demands.

 

Eco-Friendly and Safe

PC is recyclable, aligning with environmental trends. It is non-toxic and releases no harmful gases, ensuring safe use for traveling bags and luggage bags.

Market Prospect

Driven by rising consumer demands for performance, the polycarbonate luggage market is growing rapidly. Market reports project an annual growth rate of 8%-10% for global PC luggage, with ongoing technological advancements expected to further enhance PC properties and drive innovation in the industry.

Price Positioning of Polycarbonate Travel Luggage

PC luggage spans a wide price range:
- High-end market: International brands like Rimowa command premium prices. For instance, Rimowa's Essential series 21-inch carryon starts at ~6,990 CNY, and the 33-inch checked case costs ~11,330 CNY rimowa polycarbonate.
- Mid-range market: Domestic brands like TraveRE and Horizon 8 focus on cost-performance, balancing durability and lightness.
- Entry-level market: Some domestic brands offer affordable PC cases for budget-conscious consumers.

Price Comparison of Main Material Luggage

1. ABS material: Affordable, ideal for short trips or students.
2. ABS/PC composite: Balances performance and cost. For example, Samsonite's ABS+PC 24-inch case starts at 1,069 CNY, while TraveRE's wide-handle aluminum-framed ABS+PC 26-inch case (on sale) starts at 229 CNY.
3. PP material: Durable but heavy (e.g., 29-inch empty case may weigh 8kg), with declining demand due to brittleness in low temperatures.
4. Aluminum alloy: Premium choice for business or luxury needs, though heavy (20-inch ~3.5kg) and prone to dents.

Consumer Selection Tips

- Extreme lightness and durability: Opt for pure PC luggage sets or carry ons for long trips.
- Tight budget with basic protection: Choose ABS or ABS/PC cases, like TraveRE's aluminum-framed models.
- Business or luxury needs: Aluminum alloy (e.g., Samsonite) or composite polycarbonate luggage (e.g., TraveRE) for premium feel, despite higher costs.
- Eco-friendliness and cost-performance: PP cases for short-term use (mind the weight); composite materials (PC+ABS) for mid-long-term use.

Market Trends and Conclusion

Driven by demand for lightness and durability, the polycarbonate suitcase market is expected to grow 8%-10% annually. Domestic brands, through innovations like Covestro PC and multi-layer structures, are narrowing the performance gap with international brands while maintaining price advantages (e.g., TraveRE's cost-effective, impact-resistant PC cases). International brands rely on brand premium. Future material tech fusions (e.g., PC and carbon fiber) may revolutionize both performance and pricing in traveling bags and men's travel bag segments.