Thermoset Sheets
Layers of prepreg laminated into flat sheet.
What are laminated sheet materials?
Sheet lamination is a process by which prepreg materials are cured into a flat sheet. We supply thermoset sheets from a single type of prepreg (called a monolithic construction) or from different prepregs. They can even include other materials such as PTFE covers, steel cores, or rubber face sheets that enhance the targeted properties for a specific application.
Sheet materials are fully cured and ready for fabrication by standard stock removal processes such as punching, turning, milling, water jet cutting, and other specialized processes depending on the part geometry, complexity, and tolerance requirements. They are available in a variety of sheet sizes from 36 inches (914 mm) by 48 inches (1.2 m) up to 48 inches (1.2 m) by 120 inches (3.0 m). Thicknesses availability varies by reinforcement and resin system from 0.010 inches (0.25 mm) to more than 8 inches (200 mm).
The thermoset sheets supplied by Norplex-Micarta are often produced to comply with various electrical industry standards.
These materials also allow for verification of performance properties of interest through standard laboratory coupon testing, prototype parts, and functional testing.
Why Norplex-Micarta thermoset sheet materials?
Norplex-Micarta has been producing thermoset sheet materials for more than 100 years. In fact, the trade name “Micarta” is synonymous with phenolic resin matrix reinforced paper and cotton fabric materials.
But we produce much more than just phenolic materials. Resin systems based on epoxy, melamine, and silicone are commonly ran in our Postville, Iowa facility. These and other resin chemistries are often modified with additives to provide even more functionality for designers and engineers looking for a material solution to demanding applications. Reinforcements are even more varied. Glass, carbon, natural and synthetic reinforcements are all possible. So too are hybridization of these reinforcements in various different fabric architectures.
With nearly 100 grades of composite sheet goods and practically infinite customizations, the options for composite sheet materials can seem overwhelming. Norplex-Micarta has dedicated application and material development engineers to support material selection, application development, prototyping, and customization for your team.