Jun 26, 2019 | CNC Phenolic Machining, News, Phenolic Machining, Phenolics
One of the best things about CNC phenolic machining is that it’s every bit as versatile as it is effective, meaning that there are a wide range of different materials options for you to choose from depending on your needs. However, for some people that can also be the biggest difficulty – with this type of selection available to you, how do you know where to begin?
As you continue to research various CNC phenolics for your next big project, there are likely a number of different terms that you will see repeatedly. Learning as much about them as possible helps to guarantee that you’ll make the best decision regarding whatever your desired outcomes happen to be.
The Important CNC Phenolic Machining Terms You Need to Know
A number of the most essential terms you should know more about include ones like:
- CE Phenolics. CE phenolics are those that feature a fabricated, reinforced laminate constructed from a linen or cotton-based cloth that also includes a phenolic resin binder. These materials are known for their good mechanical properties, but they are NOT recommended for situations like electrical primary insulation applications you might be dealing with.
- LE Phenolics. These materials are electrical grade, high strength composites that again feature a phenolic resin that has been inserted in between layers of a very particular type of woven linen fabric. Unlike their CE counterparts, these ARE NEMA rated for use in any electrical insulating applications you may have in mind.
- X-Grade NEMA Phenolics. NEMA is an acronym that stands for the National Electrical Manufacturers Association. Each grade specified under this system represents unique characteristics in terms of the electrical, mechanical and even chemical performance of the associated materials. These types of phenolics are commonly used across a wide range of different industries, including but not limited to ones like the automotive, aerospace, electronic and industrial fields. Actual X grade NEMA phenolics are either mechanical or electrical grade materials with a paper phenolic resin, depending on which option you’re talking about. Others include:
- G10-FR4. G10 is an electrical grade (though non-brominated) woven glass material with an epoxy resin. The added FR4 designation means that, unlike traditional G10 materials, G10-FR4 is fire retardant. It’s made in a way that allows it to be self-extinguishing should some type of disaster occur.
- G5/G9. This general purpose grade phenolic material is known for its woven glass melamine resin.
- G7. This phenolic option comes with a woven glass silicone resin and, as a result, is a general purpose grade material.
- G11-FR5. G11 materials feature an industrial fibre glass composite laminate and an epoxy resin binder. The additional designation of FR5 means that this is the brominated, flame retardant version of regular G11 materials.
- GP01. This particular phenolic material is made up of a random weave glass that is paired with a polyester resin. It is considered to be a general purpose grade material.
- GP03. This is very similar to GP01 in that it also includes a random weave glass, but it is paired with polyester – not a polyester resin. It, too, is a general purpose grade material.
If you’d like to find out more information about these or other related CNC phenolics terms, or if you just have additional questions you’d like to discuss with someone in a bit more detail, please don’t delay – contact JMJ Profile today.
