Bakelite, the original synthetic plastic, remains a cornerstone material in high-performance engineering. Known for its exceptional thermal, electrical, and mechanical properties, it is a phenolic resin that is precisely machined to create robust and reliable components. CNC machining transforms this versatile thermoset into complex, tight-tolerance parts that are essential in demanding electrical, automotive, and industrial applications. When your project requires a material that combines classic durability with modern precision, CNC-machined Bakelite delivers unparalleled performance.
KEY BENEFITS
CNC machining unlocks the full potential of Bakelite, offering a unique set of advantages that make it superior to metals and other plastics in specific applications.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Excellent Electrical Insulation | Outstanding non-conductive properties, making it ideal for high-voltage applications, circuit boards, and electrical housings. |
| High Heat & Flame Resistance | Withstands continuous high-temperature environments without melting, and is inherently self-extinguishing. |
| Superb Dimensional Stability | As a thermoset, it retains its shape and size under stress, heat, and moisture, ensuring part reliability. |
| Outstanding Mechanical Strength | Offers high rigidity and impact resistance, providing long-lasting structural integrity for gears, bearings, and insulators. |
| Chemical & Moisture Resistance | Resists a wide range of chemicals, oils, solvents, and moisture, preventing degradation in harsh conditions. |
| Cost-Effective Performance | Provides a more affordable solution than specialized engineering plastics or metals with similar performance profiles. |
APPLICATIONS
The unique properties of Bakelite make it the material of choice for a diverse range of industries and components.
| Industry | Specific Parts & Applications |
|---|---|
| Electrical & Electronics | Circuit breaker components, terminal boards, switchgear insulation, arc shields, commutators, connector strips. |
| Automotive & Aerospace | Distributor caps, ignition parts, sensor housings, pulleys, bushings, and thermal insulation panels. |
| Industrial Manufacturing | Gears, bearing cages, jigs, fixtures, wear plates, and rollers for conveyor systems. |
| Consumer & Specialty Goods | Handles for high-temperature appliances, billiard balls, musical instrument components, and vintage-style housings. |
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Property | Test Method | Value / Range | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Continuous Service Temperature | – | 150 – 250 | °F |
| Thermal Conductivity | ASTM C177 | 0.35 – 0.45 | W/m·K |
| Flammability Rating | UL 94 | V-0 | |
| Dielectric Strength | ASTM D149 | 300 – 450 | V/mil |
| Volume Resistivity | ASTM D257 | 10^12 – 10^14 | Ω·cm |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | 6,000 – 10,000 | psi |
| Compressive Strength | ASTM D695 | 25,000 – 40,000 | psi |
| Flexural Strength | ASTM D790 | 10,000 – 16,000 | psi |
| Impact Strength (Izod) | ASTM D256 | 0.3 – 0.5 | ft-lb/in |
| Water Absorption (24hr) | ASTM D570 | 0.1 – 0.5 | % |
| Specific Gravity | ASTM D792 | 1.35 – 1.45 |