LE sheet is the flat-panel form of NEMA Grade LE linen-phenolic laminate — a thermoset composite produced by laminating fine-weave linen fabric with phenolic resin under heat and pressure into rigid, dimensionally stable flat stock. The fine linen reinforcement gives LE the highest dielectric strength of the cotton-phenolic family, making LE sheet a preferred choice for terminal boards, electrical standoffs, and barrier insulation in low-to-medium voltage equipment where good electricals and easy machinability matter equally.
LE sheet delivers tensile strength of 18,000 psi, flexural strength of 20,000 psi, and compressive strength of 36,000 psi. Rockwell hardness reaches M100, shear strength is approximately 14,000 psi, and water absorption over 24 hours is approximately 1.75%. Dielectric strength is approximately 200 V/mil short-time at 1/16″ thickness — the best of the cotton-phenolic grades. The material carries a UL 94HB flammability rating and operates continuously up to 250°F (121°C). These properties make LE sheet ideal for terminal boards, electrical barrier panels, switch components, and low-to-medium voltage insulation hardware.
Standards & compliance. LE sheet conforms to NEMA LI-1 Grade LE and meets defense specification MIL-I-24768/16 (Type FBM). Test methods follow ASTM D709. Ready Plastics stocks LE sheet in a range of thicknesses; custom cuts are available through our cut-to-size service.
Sister grades. For lower cost where peak electricals are not required, Grade L phenolic sheet uses a coarser cotton weave. For higher impact resistance, Grade CE phenolic sheet is preferred. When higher mechanical strength and significantly higher dielectric performance are needed, step up to G-10 glass-epoxy sheet or, for flame retardance, FR-4 glass-epoxy sheet.
