Phenolics are a class of machinable, thermoset plastics made from epoxy or phenolic resins that result in strong, stiff materials with excellent physical and chemical properties. Phenolic plastics are used in a variety of applications including electrical insulation, automotive parts, and construction materials. They’re uniquely versatile and combine resins with a wide range of composite materials like glass fiber, canvas, woven cotton, and paper to achieve one-of-a-kind properties.
Key Properties of Phenolic Plastics
Phenolics are one of the most widely used and versatile classes of engineering materials. The most important properties include resistance to impact, abrasion, corrosion, heat, solvents, chemicals, and fire. These factors make them incredibly durable while also being lightweight enough for use in a wide range of applications. With their ability to withstand both friction and material fatigue, thermoset plastics won’t wear out on you.
These plastics are also thermo-hardening, meaning that they harden through crosslinking when heat is applied. This process enables thermosets to maintain their structural integrity even under extreme conditions, which makes them ideal for use across many industries including automotive, aerospace, construction, infrastructure, and consumer products. This type of plastic has high tensile strength, is a compressive material, and has impressive flexural and impact strength.
Ideal for A Wide Range of Applications
Phenolic plastic is particularly tough, making it ideal for various applications such as aerospace or automotive parts including armored trucks, buses, and trains. It’s can also be used in construction, machine shops, mining, and manufacturing of industrial parts and accessories like bearings, gaskets, die cutters, gears, and more. At Polymershapes, we have thermoset materials as a sheet or a tube so you can find the best option for your situation.
Have a project that needs phenolic/thermoset plastics? Get in touch today and enjoy competitive prices, a quick turnaround, and the expertise to complete your project.
