CE Coarse-Weave Cotton Phenolic (NEMA CE) — Rod

CE rod is a solid round bar form of CE grade phenolic — a thermoset laminate reinforced with coarse cotton fabric and bound with phenolic resin, then cured under heat and pressure into dense, machinable stock. CE rod belongs to the NEMA LI-1 cotton-phenolic family and is widely used wherever a combination of electrical insulation, impact resistance, and easy machinability is required in a cylindrical form.

Key mechanical properties of CE rod include a tensile strength of 36,000 psi, flexural strength of 17,000 psi, compressive strength of 10,000 psi, and Rockwell M100 hardness. Shear strength reaches 14,000 psi. The material carries a UL 94HB flammability rating and operates continuously up to 255°F (125°C). Water absorption over 24 hours is just 2.00%, reflecting stable performance in humid environments. These properties make CE rod a reliable choice for turned bushings, spacers, rollers, and electrical standoffs machined on a lathe or screw machine.

Standards & compliance. CE rod is governed by NEMA LI-1 and meets defense specification MIL-I-24768/14 (Type FBG). Test methods follow ASTM D709 for laminated thermosetting materials. Ready Plastics stocks CE rod in standard diameters available as cut-to-length pieces; contact us for size availability and custom lengths.

Sister grades. If cost is the primary driver and electrical performance is secondary, Grade C phenolic rod offers similar machinability at a lower price point. For applications demanding higher dielectric strength, step up to Grade LE phenolic rod, which uses a finer linen weave for better dielectric properties. When the application requires significantly higher mechanical strength and lower moisture absorption, consider glass-epoxy G-10 rod.