Thermoset Composites for Electrical Devices and Applications

Norplex-Micarta relies on cutting-edge process automation to manufacture our thermoset composites. First, we treat the reinforcement material with a compounded resin matrix, which is contingent upon the desired application.  

The resin–coated reinforcement travels through an oven, and as it exits, becomes non-tacky and dry to the touch (unlike many competing products on the market), making it easier to work with. The prepregs can then be formed into laminates, tubes, or shapes.  

With multiple resin and substrate combinations, our composites can provide solutions to many problems. We have also combined dissimilar prepregs to create characteristics that are different from a composite constructed solely of the core materials.

The fiberglass-based sheet offering consists of woven glass fabric combined with phenolic, epoxy, melamine, or silicone resins. We offer products complying with MIL-I-24768/ and NEMA FR-4, FR-5, G-3, G-5, G-7, G-9, G-10, and G-11 requirements.

The cotton-based sheet offering consists of canvas or linen-grade fabric combined with phenolic resins. We offer products complying with MIL-I-24768/, NEMA C, CE, CF, L, and LE, ASTM D709 and IEC requirements.

The paper-based sheet offering consists of kraft or cotton paper combined with phenolic or epoxy resins. We offer products complying with MIL-I-24768/ and NEMA X, XX, XP, and XPC requirements.

Prepreg wound tubes, occasionally called “convolute rolled” tubes, are electrical composite tubes available in multiple grades as well as different resin and substrate combinations.

Fiberglass tubes consist of fine or medium weave glass reinforcement combined with an epoxy, phenolic, melamine, or silicone resin system. Meeting the requirements of MIL-I-24768/, NEMA G-5, G-7, G-9, G-10, or FR-4, ASTM D709 and IEC these grades offer a variety of properties, including high-temperature resistance, excellent electrical and mechanical properties, and arc and flame resistance, depending upon the resin system selected.

These products are designed for applications requiring high electrical and mechanical strength and the ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Composite tubing grades are also available with fine or medium weave cotton fabric reinforcement with a phenolic resin system. Meeting the requirements of ML-I-24768 and NEMA C or LE, these composite materials are used in mechanical applications where electrical strength is of secondary importance. Some grades include self-lubricating modifiers for mechanical and friction reduction applications.

If you’re looking for molded composite products you’ve come to the right place. We have molded material solutions utilizing substrates like cotton, kraft paper, and glass fabric.

Rolled and molded rod products are available with a paper, cotton, or glass reinforcements on various different resin systems. These products meet various electrical industry standards. Additional grades are offered that are not recognized in rod form by NEMA, IEC, or the military.

Norplex-Micarta also manufactures molded ripple springs and wedges for the power generation industry. Made from materials with excellent insulation properties and maximum creep resistance, they have the ability to withstand extreme compressive forces in high temperature environments for both generators and transformers.