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Phenolic Machining

CE Phenolics

The term CE — or canvas electric — phenolics refers to a class of reinforced laminates made from a medium-weave cotton canvas cloth impregnated with a phenolic resin binder.

CE phenolics offer mechanical strength and durability, plus resistance to impact and wear. CE phenolics can withstand temperatures up to275°F. They are also easy to machine, making them a cost-effective choice for many applications.

CE phenolics are less abrasive than fiberglass and meet MIL-I-24768/14 FBG standards for laminated sheet insulation in electrical control boards. However, they are generally not suitable for use as primary electrical insulation. Other applications include gears, pulls and guides.

AMI can machine sheet stock, rod, angle and U-channel CE phenolics. We can provide advice on whether this material is right for your project, or recommend an alternative that will work better.

no minimum order requirement

CNC machining

LE Phenolics

LE phenolics are similar to CE phenolics but made from linen cotton cloth with a finer weave. As a result, they offer a better finish than CE, in addition to improved machining characteristics that make them suitable for highly precise components.

Like CE phenolics, LE phenolics have good mechanical properties and dimensional stability. They also meetMIL-I-24768/13 FBE requirements. Because LE phenolics are thinner, they are suitable for a wider range of potential applications, including panels, terminal strips, ball bearing retainers and fine gears.

If you’d like to learn more about our LE phenolic machining capabilities or request a quote for a project, contact the AMI office by phone or email.

X-Grade NEMA Phenolics

AMI is also capable of machining NEMA phenolics ranging from X Grade to XXX. NEMA X-grade phenolics are lightweight and strong, and offer excellent moisture- and impact-resistance. Mechanical and electrical grades are available in a range of thicknesses.

Each NEMA phenolic has different properties and different potential applications, including gears and gaskets used in aerospace, automotive and electronic manufacturing.NEMA sheet, strip, and rodphenolics are MIL-I-24768/11 compliant and meetUL 94HB specifications for flame retardance.

Accurately machining thin materials like Grade X phenolics requires specialized equipment and expertise. AMI can turn around large projects quickly, maintaining the accuracy you need to release a higher-quality finished product.

Low Tooling-Fast Turn Around

Factory worker programming a CNC milling machine with a tablet computer.

GaroliteG10/FR4

Garolite G10/FR4 isone of the most versatile phenolics availableand an excellent choice for a range of projects. First introduced in 1950 and now widely used in many industrial applications, G10/FR4 is a fire-resistantglass-reinforced epoxy laminate.

Notable characteristics of G10/FR4 include:

  • Excellent mechanical properties, even at high humidity levels
  • Excellent dielectric strength and stability in dry, wet and high-humidity environments
  • Fire resistance to UL 94, 94V-0 standards
  • MIL-I-24768/27 GEE-F compliance

AMI is unique in our ability to mass-produce Garolite insulators for use interminal boards, electrical and electronic test equipment,andelectric rotors, among other demanding applications. Our approach emphasizes quality above all else, ensuring we can provide Garolite phenolic machining to your specifications.

Why AMI?

Our extensive technical expertise and capabilities are just two of the reasons we’re a national leader in phenolic machining. AMI also provides fast turnaround times and cost-effective service, with no order minimums and low tooling costs.

Most importantly, we’re a partner to everyone we serve. We’re committed to leveraging our longstanding experience in CNC machining to help our clients solve problems related to sourcing, design and manufacturing. To learn more about how we can help you, contact our office today.

No Minimum Order–Low Tooling–Fast Turn Around

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