L rod is the solid round-bar form of NEMA Grade L cotton-phenolic laminate — a thermoset composite produced by impregnating fine-weave cotton fabric with phenolic resin and curing under heat and pressure into a tough, machinable cylindrical stock. Grade L uses a finer cotton weave than Grade C or CE, which improves surface finish, dimensional consistency, and electrical performance, making L rod a preferred choice for small-diameter machined parts where smooth turned surfaces matter.
L rod delivers tensile strength of 17,000 psi, flexural strength of 18,000 psi, and compressive strength of 36,000 psi. Rockwell hardness reaches M105 and shear strength is approximately 13,500 psi. Water absorption over 24 hours is approximately 2.5%. The material carries a UL 94HB flammability rating and operates continuously up to 250°F (121°C). These properties make L rod a reliable choice for small bushings, light-load gears, terminal posts, light-duty bearings, and turned electrical hardware machined on a lathe or screw machine.
Standards & compliance. L rod conforms to NEMA LI-1 Grade L and meets defense specification MIL-I-24768/15 (Type FBI). Test methods follow ASTM D709 for laminated thermosetting materials. Ready Plastics stocks L rod in standard diameters; request a custom cut or contact us for availability.
Sister grades. For higher dielectric performance with finer linen weave, step up to Grade LE phenolic rod. For higher impact resistance with coarser cotton, Grade CE phenolic rod is the standard choice; for the lowest cost in cotton-phenolic, see Grade C phenolic rod. When higher mechanical strength and lower moisture absorption are needed, consider glass-epoxy G-10 rod.
