Using Phenolics in Thermoset Molding Applications
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Phenolic, or phenolic molding compound, is a type of thermoset molding material. Phenolic materials have history dating all the way back to the original plastic, Bakelite, that derived from Leo Baekeland in the early 1900s. Even with a long history, phenolic thermosets are still commonly molded today for different applications and end products requiring heat resistance, electrical strength, and chemical resistance. Molded phenolic components exude excellent dielectric strength and electrical insulation, heat resistance, and chemical resistance. These properties allow phenolics to be molded for a variety of safety-critical components in Electrical, Automotive, and Industrial markets. Phenolics are compounded into a similar shape prior to molding as thermoplastics, in that they are compounded into in a granular form; filled with glass fibers, minerals, or bead fillers dispersed within the resin. Molding wise, phenolics are generally injection molded, but can also be compression or transfer molded. Injection molding phenolics require the use of a molding machine with a screw and barrel to plasticize the material prior to injection. (more…)
Using Thermosets in High Temperature Applications
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Thermosets are used in molding applications requiring an end-part or product assembly to remain dimensionally stable within challenging and aggressive environments. One of the main benefits of using a thermoset in a molded application is thermosets’ heat resistance and high deflection temperatures that allow the molded components to exhibit excellent dimensional stability, durability, strength, and creep resistance while exposed to elevated operating temperatures. Thermoset materials offer heat resistance up to 400F-500F continuous operating temperatures, depending on the material formulation, whereas thermoplastic molding materials such as a nylon or ABS may melt or disfigure, jeopardizing the integrity of the product or assembly. (more…)
