Thermoset Molding for Electrical Applications

Why are thermosets commonly used as a molding material for electrical parts and component assemblies? Molded thermosets provide exceptional electrical properties such as electrical stability, high dielectric and insulation strength, and resistance to arc and track to protect internal components from potential damage caused by electrical charge or current and arc/track. Thermoset applications within the electrical industry include circuit breakers, terminal blocks, switches, actuators, and connectors. Whereas a thermoplastic may degrade, disfigure, or ignite; thermosets such as unsaturated polyester BMC and phenolic molding compounds remain durable and strong when exposed to such electrical elements. From a cost comparison, thermosets are a great high volume commercial option available at a low cost per lb. compared to engineered thermoplastics with similar type of electrical and heat resistant properties. Common thermoset materials used in electrical applications include both phenolic and bulk molding compounds (BMC). (more…)