Why TR90 Requires a Higher MOQ Than PC: A Clear Explanation for Sunglasses Buyers
If you’re sourcing sports sunglasses, you may notice something puzzling:
TR90 frames always come with a higher Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) than PC frames.
Many customers ask us why this happens, so here’s a simple and transparent explanation to help you plan your orders more efficiently.
TR90 and PC Are Processed Very Differently
Even though both materials are widely used in eyewear, the injection molding requirements for TR90 and PC are worlds apart. TR90 needs higher temperatures, different machine settings, and longer cooling time.
Whenever a factory switches from PC to TR90, the machine has to be fully cleaned and re-adjusted.
This process can take half a day or more, which is why manufacturers prefer producing TR90 in larger batches.
PC Is a High-Volume Material, TR90 Is Not
PC (polycarbonate) is the most common material used in sports sunglasses. Because it’s produced in big volumes, factories can keep the MOQ low.
TR90, however, is ordered less frequently, which means each production run takes valuable space in the schedule.
To make the production time worthwhile, suppliers need a higher MOQ for TR90 frames.
TR90 Takes Longer to Mold
Another key reason is efficiency.
TR90 has a slower injection cycle—longer cooling, longer molding time, and a higher chance of deformation if rushed.
This means a machine making TR90 frames produces fewer pieces per hour than if it were making PC frames.
A higher MOQ helps balance out the lower productivity.
TR90 Has Higher Production Risk
Because TR90 is flexible and elastic, it’s more sensitive during manufacturing.
Mold temperature, pressure, and cooling time all need to be precise, and the material’s shrinkage rate is higher.
In simple terms:
TR90 has a higher chance of defects, so production needs to run in larger batches to maintain consistency.
In Short: Why TR90 MOQ Is Higher
Here’s the easy summary you can share with your team:
TR90 needs more setup time
TR90 orders are less frequent than PC
TR90 takes longer to mold
TR90 carries more production risk
Larger batches help keep quality stable and cost reasonable
That’s why PC frames often start at 300 pcs, while TR90 usually requires 600 pcs or more.