High strength composite materials for custom parts, high speed bearings, electrical applications, and more.
Phenolic plastic is known for its rigidity and variable properties depending on the combination of base material and resin type. Phenolics are generally durable, lightweight, and have insulating properties.
Highlights
Strong and stiff
Great dielectric strength
Low moisture absorption
Light weight
Good machinability
Applications
Printed circuit boards
Electrical insulators
Switch parts and bases
Terminal boards
Wear and brake pads
Wood, metal replacements
Industries
Electrical/Electronics
Automotive
Chemical processing
Pulp and Paper
Phenolic Plastic Overview
What is phenolic?
Phenolic plastics are a type of thermoset plastic known for their exceptionally high heat resistance, electrical insulation, and dimensional stability. Phenolic plastics are widely used in applications such as electrical switchgear, electrical insulation, medical instrument components, and aircraft components. They are also used for components that require high-temperature resistance, such as electrical connectors and high-temperature fasteners. Phenolic is commonly known by the brand names Bakelite, Micarta, and Resinox. Other composite material brand names include NorPLY, SpringPly, CyPly, and ScotchPly.
What are the different types of phenolic plastic?
Canvas phenolic plastics are composed of a base cloth, usually cotton, impregnated with a phenolic resin. Linen phenolic plastics comprise a base cloth impregnated with a phenolic resin. Paper phenolic plastics are composed of a base paper, usually kraft paper, impregnated with a phenolic resin. All three types of phenolic plastics are known for their high heat and electrical insulation, as well as dimensional stability. The main differences between them are the base material used and the performance characteristics they offer. Canvas phenolic plastics are the strongest and most durable, while paper phenolic plastics are the least expensive.
Glass-filled phenolic is a type of phenolic plastic that has been reinforced with glass fibers, increasing strength, stiffness, temperature resistance, and chemical resistance. Glass-filled phenolic is widely used in applications such as electrical insulation, medical instrument components, and aircraft components. It is also used for components that require high-temperature resistance, such as electrical connectors and high-temperature fasteners. Other glass-filled epoxy composites such as NorPLY 1002 see use in vibratory springs or shaker springs for shaker tables and other fatigue-intensive applications. Their minimization of filament stress abrasion, weight reduction compared to steel, resistance to chemicals and corrosion, and great energy storage capacity allow them to undergo many load cycles without failing and outperform other composite materials.
Paper-based phenolic laminate sheet is used as punch parts, terminal boards, spacers, and other components in low voltage electrical applications. This material is best used in dry conditions and is not suitable for applications in high humidity environments.
Is phenolic a hard plastic?
Phenolic is a hard and durable plastic with good impact and abrasion resistance. Phenolic plastics can withstand a wide range of temperatures and chemicals, making them ideal for molded parts.
Is phenolic laminate?
Phenolic composite materials are laminates made from layers of canvas, paper, linen, or glass cloth combined with a phenolic resin. Heat and pressure are applied to compress the layers and the resin into a single laminated material. Phenolic laminates are thermoset, but generally have high strength and stiffness and are more cost-effective than thermoplastics in similar applications.
Is phenolic the same as Bakelite?
Bakelite is a brand name of phenolic plastic that is enhanced with wood filler for better performance. Phenolic can be strengthened with reinforcement materials such as glass fibers, cellulose, minerals, or other additives. Bakelite is a type of phenolic material, but not all phenolic is Bakelite.
General Properties1 of Phenolic
Property
Paper
Canvas
Glass
Specific Gravity
1.35
1.37
1.8
Tensile Strength (psi)
11500
9000
38000
Flexural Strength (psi)
17000
15000
60000
Flexural Modulus
---
1500
2400
Rockwell Hardness
M95
M100
M110
Maximum Continuous Service Temperature
266°F
257°F
266°F
Water Absorption @ 24 hrs.
2%
2%
0.10%
1The values listed are typical and are meant only as a guide to aid in design. Field testing is always recommended to determine exact values for each application.