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Material Overview
What is L Fine Linen Phenolic (NEMA L) — Sheet & Rod?
Cotton phenolic Grade L is a thermoset laminate reinforced with fine-weave linen fabric impregnated with phenolic resin and cured under heat and pressure into rigid sheet, rod, and tube stock. As an l rod and sheet material governed by NEMA LI-1, Grade L is the standard choice in the cotton phenolic family when a smooth surface finish and superior machinability — rather than raw impact toughness — are the primary design requirements.
Grade L delivers 35,000 psi tensile strength, 23,000 psi flexural strength, and 14,000 psi compressive strength with a Rockwell M105 hardness and low water absorption of 1.04% over 24 hours. Maximum continuous operating temperature is 255°F (125°C). The fine linen weave produces a tight, uniform surface that reduces tooling wear and supports precise thread cutting, making l material ideal for gears, threaded inserts, precision bushings, cams, and intricate machined components.
Standards. Grade L is governed by NEMA LI-1. Flammability is rated 94HB per UL 94. Test methods follow ASTM D709 for laminated thermosetting materials. NEMA L designation confirms the fine-linen reinforcement that distinguishes this grade from canvas grades C and CE.
Sister grades. Choose Grade LE — linen phenolic, electrical grade when your precision-machined part also needs reliable dielectric insulation for terminal boards, switchgear, or electrical housings. Step down to Grade C — canvas phenolic when maximum impact strength and lower cost take priority over surface finish. For electrical canvas parts, see Grade CE.
Technical Specifications
L Fine Linen Phenolic (NEMA L) — Sheet & Rod properties
Typical values at 23°C / 50% RH. Values are nominal and not guaranteed; refer to lot-specific certificates of conformance for production parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
L Fine Linen Phenolic (NEMA L) — Sheet & Rod, answered
What is NEMA Grade L linen phenolic?
NEMA Grade L is a fine-weave linen-fabric phenolic laminate — a thermoset composite of linen fabric impregnated with phenolic resin. It provides 35,000 psi tensile strength, a smooth surface finish, and excellent machinability with low tooling wear. Grade L is governed by NEMA LI-1 and is the preferred choice for precision mechanical components such as gears, bearings, threaded parts, and cams.
What is the difference between Grade L and Grade C cotton phenolic?
Grade L uses a fine linen weave; Grade C uses a coarser canvas weave. The linen weave in Grade L produces a smoother surface finish and better machinability, making it preferred for intricate precision parts. Grade C offers higher impact strength and toughness at lower cost, making it better for heavy-duty mechanical components that see shock loading. Neither grade carries an electrical rating — for electrical performance, see Grade CE (canvas) or Grade LE (linen).
What thicknesses and shapes does Ready Plastics stock in Grade L?
Ready Plastics stocks linen phenolic Grade L in sheet and rod form across a range of standard thicknesses and diameters. Phenolic l rod stock is particularly popular for turned parts such as bushings, spacers, and threaded components. Cut-to-size is available on every SKU — contact us or review the datasheet for current size inventory.
Can Grade L linen phenolic be machined to tight tolerances?
Yes. Grade L's fine linen weave makes it one of the most machinable grades in the cotton phenolic family. It cuts cleanly on conventional mill, lathe, and drill press equipment, accepts tapped holes without chipping, and holds tight dimensional tolerances in turned and milled components. Use sharp carbide tooling, moderate speeds, and dust extraction — phenolic dust is abrasive and should not be inhaled.
Is Grade L the same as Grade LE?
No. Both use fine linen weave reinforcement, but they serve different applications. Grade L is a general-purpose mechanical grade optimized for machinability and structural performance. Grade LE adds an electrical rating — it is designed for components that require both precision machining and reliable dielectric insulation, such as terminal boards and electrical bushings. If electrical insulation is not a requirement, Grade L is the more economical choice.
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