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…)
Phenolics, or phenolic molding compounds, are a type of thermoset composite or plastic molding material. Phenolics have history dating back to the very first plastic, bakelite, that derived from Leo Baekeland in the early 1900s. Despite a long history, phenolics thermosets are still commonly molded today for various applications and end products. The physical properties of molded phenolics provide a molded part or component exceptional dielectric strength, 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. In its raw state, phenolic is similar to thermoplastics such as nylons or ABS in a granular-like 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. 
