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

NEMA Grade CE is a coarse-weave cotton-fabric phenolic laminate, also called canvas phenolic. It pairs roughly 13,000 psi tensile strength with reliable electrical insulation and stable performance in humid environments. CE is governed by NEMA LI-1 and meets MIL-I-24768/14 Type FBG.

CE uses a coarser cotton weave and offers higher impact strength and machinability at a lower cost. LE uses a finer linen weave and delivers higher dielectric strength and a smoother finish, which is preferred for tighter electrical work. For most general-purpose mechanical parts, CE is the right call; for precision electrical components, LE is the upgrade.

We stock cotton phenolic CE sheets from 0.020" to 6.125" thick (up to 48"×96") and rods from 0.125" to 6" in diameter (48" lengths), in both natural tan and black. Cut-to-size is available on every SKU — minimum order is one piece.

Yes. NEMA CE meets MIL-I-24768/14 Type FBG, the US defense specification for cotton-fabric phenolic laminates intended for shipboard, ordnance, and ground-support applications. Certificates of conformance are available on request for production lots.

Yes. CE machines well with standard carbide tooling on conventional mill, lathe, and drill press equipment. Use sharp tooling, moderate feed rates, light cuts, and dust extraction — phenolic dust is abrasive and should not be inhaled. CE accepts threaded inserts and tapped holes without resin chipping.

No. CE is cotton fabric in phenolic resin. G-10 and FR-4 are glass fabric in epoxy resin. G-10/FR-4 has substantially higher dielectric strength (~500 V/mil vs. 200 V/mil for CE) and better dimensional stability, which is why it dominates PCB and high-voltage work. CE has better impact strength, better machinability, and significantly lower cost — making it the better choice for mechanical parts that also need basic insulation.