C Canvas Phenolic (NEMA C) — Sheet & Rod

NEMA Grade C is a coarse-weave cotton-fabric phenolic laminate — a thermoset composite of canvas fabric bonded with phenolic resin. It delivers 37,000 psi tensile strength, high impact resistance, and excellent wear resistance, making it a primary choice for mechanical components such as gears, bearings, and wear pads. Grade C is governed by NEMA LI-1 and qualifies to MIL-I-24768/16.

Both grades use a coarse cotton canvas reinforcement, but they are optimized for different end uses. Grade C prioritizes mechanical performance — highest tensile and flexural strength in the canvas family — while Grade CE adds an electrical rating, providing reliable dielectric insulation alongside mechanical strength. Choose Grade C for pure mechanical applications; choose CE when you also need insulation performance.

Ready Plastics stocks Grade C canvas phenolic in sheet and rod form. Sheets are available in a wide range of thicknesses; rods are stocked in standard diameters up to several inches. Cut-to-size is available on every SKU — contact us or see the datasheet for current size inventory and minimum order requirements.

Yes. Grade C machines readily on conventional mill, lathe, and drill press equipment using standard carbide tooling. Use sharp tooling, moderate feed rates, and light cuts to achieve tight tolerances. Phenolic dust is abrasive — use dust extraction and avoid inhalation. Grade C accepts tapped holes and threaded inserts without chipping.

No. Grade C is reinforced with coarse cotton canvas fabric; paper phenolic grades (X, XX, XXX) use layers of kraft paper as the reinforcement. Cotton canvas reinforcement gives Grade C significantly higher impact strength and toughness. Paper phenolic grades offer better electrical insulation per unit cost but are more brittle under impact. For mechanical load-bearing parts, Grade C is the appropriate choice.