Phenolic plastic materials are often used to make objects such as switches, bearings, gears, washers and transformers. Depending on what it's added to, phenolic materials are heat and wear resistant, as well as easily machinable and corrosion resistant. Phenolic plastic can be added as an epoxy, resin, or added to fabrics to create phenolic sheeting.

You'll find phenolic material available in two grades: mechanical and electrical. Generally, electrical phenolic material is paper-based, while mechanical often contains glass. However, that's not all you need to consider:

1. Know government and trade standards for the industry in which you plan to use phenolic materials. Safety concerns require different industries to adhere to specific quality guidelines when manufacturing parts from phenolic materials.

2. Phenolic plastic can assume many interesting qualities depending on what it's combined with. Certain types of phenolic material are self-extinguishing, heat resistant or self-lubricating.

3. Think about your color choices. The color selection of phenolic materials varies depending on the base material and chemicals added. You can achieve anything from black to green, gray or brown.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Choose which type of phenolic material you need

There are many types of phenolic materials. Phenolic can be reinforced with paper, canvas, linen, or nylon for specialized functions. Linen reinforced phenolic is best for intricate mechanical and electrical parts, while nylon reinforced phenolic is fungus resistant and works well in humid conditions.

I recommend: Moore-Addison specializes in some types of phenolic laminate, while Bangor Plastics focuses on cloth reinforced phenolic.

Buy specialized phenolic equipment designed for your industry

Some places have materials treated with phenolic epoxy or resins created specifically for laminating, automotive uses, or building and furniture industries. In most cases these materials are mass produced and built to a specific industry's specifications.

I recommend: The National Coating Corporation specializes in manufacturing industry-specific coatings from many materials, while Emco Industrial Plastics sells a wide range of coated goods in many sizes and quantities.

Commission a custom treatment of specific objects with phenolic material

If you need an unusual material treated with phenolic epoxy or resin, or you need a specific treatment mass produced, custom treating allows you to adjust everything to your needs. Special formulations of phenolic material are used in cryogenics and other niche industries.

I recommend: Request a custom quote from ESPE Manufacturing or contact Redwood Plastics about their customization process.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  To get the best value for your money, look for mass-produced 'economy grade' phenolic materials. These work best as materials for non-critical parts, and they can save you money because they're easily machinable and cheap. This type of phenolic material may not work for more specialized applications, but it's often available if you need large quantities in a hurry.