Phenolic Laminates

Phenolics are the result of polymerization between layers of paper, canvas, linen, or glass cloth impregnated with synthetic thermosetting resins. This laminated material is a popular alternative to acrylic because of its high resistance to flexing.

 

Paper Phenolic Laminate

Paper phenolic is made using layers of cellulose paper saturated with phenolic resin. It is one of the most economical phenolic options and is widely used for electrical insulation. Paper Reinforced Phenolic is most commonly hot punched for a variety of low voltage electrical applications. Paper Reinforced Phenolic is also the most cost effective industrial laminate.

Key Properties:

• Excellent electrical insulation
• Lightweight
• Easy to machine
• Cost-effective

Common Applications:

• Electrical panels and switchgear
• Terminal boards
• Insulating washers and spacers
• Low-load structural components

Typical NEMA Grades: XX, X, XP

Best For: Electrical applications where mechanical strength requirements are moderate and cost efficiency is important.

 

Canvas Phenolic Laminate

Canvas phenolic uses woven cotton canvas fabric as its reinforcement. This gives the material higher impact resistance and toughness compared to paper phenolic.

Key Properties:

• High impact resistance
• Good mechanical strength
• Excellent wear resistance
• Low noise during operation

Common Applications:

• Gears and pulleys
• Wear strips and guides
• Structural supports
• Industrial mechanical parts

Typical NEMA Grades: C

Best For: Applications requiring toughness, shock resistance, and durability under mechanical stress.

 

Linen Phenolic Laminate

Linen phenolic is similar to canvas phenolic but uses a finer woven cotton fabric. This results in a smoother surface finish and improved machinability.

Key Properties:

• Fine, smooth surface finish
• Excellent dimensional stability
• High strength-to-weight ratio
• Superior machinability

Common Applications:

• Precision machined components
• Bearings and bushings
• Wear plates
• Tight-tolerance industrial parts

Typical NEMA Grades: L, LE

Best For: Precision applications where smooth finishes, tight tolerances, and consistent machining results are required.

 

Glass Phenolic Laminate (Glass-Reinforced)

Glass phenolic (Also known as G-10 Glass Epoxy) is a light green material that combines a woven glass fabric and an epoxy resin laminate that contains bromine. Glass Phenolic uses fiberglass cloth as reinforcement, delivering significantly higher strength and thermal performance compared to paper or fabric-based phenolics. Glass Reinforced Phenolic provides consistent quality and good electrical properties under dry and humid conditions, as well as high flexural, impact, and bond strength at room temperatures. Due to a high mechanical strength, low water absorption and superior electrical characteristics, this product is suitable for a variety of structural, high humidity, and electrical insulation applications, which include terminal boards, lapping carriers, and disc and microelectronics polishing. It will withstand temperatures up to 284F and has a moisture absorption rate of .15%.

Key Properties:

• Exceptional mechanical strength
• Excellent heat resistance
• Superior electrical insulation
• High dimensional stability

Common Applications:

• High-voltage electrical insulation
• Structural electrical components
• Aerospace and industrial applications
• High-temperature environments

Typical NEMA Grades: G10, G11

Best For: High-performance electrical and structural applications requiring maximum strength and heat resistance.

Looking for cut-to-size items off the shelf? Shop phenolic sheets & bars and rods from our distribution partner Fix Supply. Check out their Knowledge Center for additional information.