Phenolic

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Phenolic Laminates are made by applying heat and pressure to layers of
paper, canvas, linen or glass cloth impregnated with synthetic thermosetting
resins. When heat and pressure are applied to the layers, a chemical
reaction (polymerization) transforms the separate layers into a single
laminated material with a "set" shape that cannot be softened again --
therefore, these materials are called "Thermosets". A variety of resin
types and cloth materials can be used to manufacture thermoset laminates
with a range of mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties.

GENERAL PROPERTIES

Physical strength, resiliency, ease and versatility of fabrication, and
excellent electrical properties make Phenolic Laminates useful as support
components in a wide range of mechanical and electrical applications.
Phenolic Laminates are strong, stiff, and have high impact and compressive
strengths. And, they do not soften upon re-heating, so they are easy to saw,
drill, tap, and machine with ordinary tools. "FR" grades are flame retardant.

Paper-based phenolics are the most economical of the laminates, yet provide
significant electrical properties and good mechanical properties. For greater
strength and machinability, cotton-fabric phenolics are often a good choice.

PHENOLIC GRADES

X, XX, and XXX (Paper Base / Phenolic Resin) Mechanical and Electrical grades are available which are excellent choices for intricate punch parts, insulating washers, spacers, terminal boards, switch bases, and other electrical components. The "X" designations generally distinguish manufacturing processes which result in different levels of electrical properties (i.e., dielectric strengths). Paper-based phenolics are available in a variety of sheet, rod, and tube sizes.

C and CE (Canvas Base / Phenolic Resin)
Medium weave cotton cloth fabrics are mixed with phenolic resins to
provide good wear resistance, low moisture absorption, and good mechanical
strength at economical cost. Canvas-based phenolics are used for
structural supports, piston rings, gears, spacers, and bearing surfaces.
The "CE" grade has better electrical properties than the "C" grade.
Canvas-based phenolics are available in a variety of sheet, rod, and
tube sizes.

L and LE (Linen Base / Phenolic Resin)
Fine weave cotton cloth fabrics are mixed with phenolic resins to
provide better machinability than provided by the "C" and "CE" grades.
The Linen-based grades also have higher density and good moisture
resistance. "L" and "LE" phenolics are used for fine tooth gears, relay
bases, radio parts, terminal bases and strips, often in high-humidity
environments. The "LE" grade has better electrical properties than the
"L" grade. Linen-based phenolics are available in a variety of sheet,
rod, and tube sizes.