LE Linen Phenolic (NEMA LE) — Sheet & Rod

NEMA Grade LE is a fine-weave linen-fabric phenolic laminate rated for electrical insulation applications. It provides 36,000 psi tensile strength, high dielectric strength, and excellent machinability with low moisture absorption. LE is governed by NEMA LI-1 and is the preferred choice for precision electrical components such as terminal boards, electrical bushings, spacers, and switchgear parts.

Both grades carry an electrical rating, but they differ in reinforcement and resulting properties. Grade LE uses fine linen fabric, yielding a smoother surface finish and better machinability for precision electrical parts. Grade CE uses coarser canvas fabric, offering higher impact strength at slightly lower cost. Choose LE for tightly toleranced electrical components where surface quality matters; choose CE when impact resistance is more important than fine surface finish.

Ready Plastics stocks LE linen phenolic in le sheet and le rod form across standard thicknesses and diameters. The fine surface finish makes le sheet stock especially popular for cut terminal board blanks and electrical panel components. Cut-to-size is available on every SKU — see the datasheet or contact us for current size inventory.

Yes. Grade LE is one of the most machinable grades in the cotton phenolic family. Its fine linen weave allows clean cuts, crisp thread profiles, and tight dimensional tolerances on conventional mill, lathe, and drill press equipment. Use sharp carbide tooling, moderate feed rates, and dust extraction. LE accepts tapped holes and drilled features without resin chipping, making it well-suited for detailed electrical fabrication work.

No. Grade LE is linen fabric in phenolic resin. G-10 and FR-4 are glass fabric in epoxy resin. G-10 and FR-4 deliver substantially higher dielectric strength and better dimensional stability, which is why they dominate PCB substrates and high-voltage electrical work. Grade LE offers better machinability, better impact resistance than paper-based laminates, and significantly lower cost — making it the right choice for precision electrical components that do not require G-10/FR-4-level dielectric performance.