Main Equipment

What Is Bakelite Sheet? A Complete Guide to Properties, Manufacturing, and Industrial Applications

Bakelite Sheet

 

Bakelite Sheet is a high-performance thermosetting laminate widely recognized for its durability, electrical insulation capability, and thermal stability. Produced from phenolic resin and reinforced with paper, cotton, or glass fabric, Bakelite Sheets have become indispensable in electrical, mechanical, and industrial engineering. Their combination of strength, heat resistance, and cost-effectiveness makes them one of the most reliable insulating materials in modern manufacturing.

Basic Information
Material: Phenolic Resin + Reinforcement Material
Color: Black, Orange

Thickness Range: 2mm – 100mm
Regular Size: 1040mm × 2080mm, 1220mm × 2440mm
Packaging: Standard Export Packaging with Pallet Protection

Understanding the Composition and Structure of Bakelite Sheet

Bakelite Sheets are produced from phenol-formaldehyde resin, one of the earliest synthetic polymers known for its excellent thermal and electrical properties. During production, a chemical reaction between phenol and formaldehyde creates a three-dimensional, cross-linked molecular network. Once fully cured under heat and pressure, the material becomes a rigid, non-melting, and dimensionally stable thermoset.

This cross-linked structure is what gives Bakelite its hallmark advantages—superior heat resistance, excellent electrical insulation, and strong mechanical performance. Unlike thermoplastics, Bakelite will not soften or deform when exposed to heat, making it suitable for demanding industrial environments.

Key Physical Properties

Bakelite Sheets offer a balanced set of mechanical and physical characteristics, including:

High compressive strength for load-bearing applications

Good dimensional stability due to a low thermal expansion coefficient

Density of 1.35–1.45 g/cm³, ensuring lightweight but robust performance

Smooth surface finish suitable for precision machining

Excellent wear and abrasion resistance, enhancing long-term durability

These properties allow Bakelite Sheets to be used in parts requiring stable geometry, reliable performance, and resistance to harsh working conditions.

Electrical and Thermal Performance

As an insulating material, Bakelite is widely recognized for:

High dielectric strength

Low dielectric constant

High volume resistivity

These characteristics ensure safe and stable operation in high-voltage and high-frequency environments. Thermally, Bakelite Sheets can withstand continuous operating temperatures up to 130°C without significant degradation. Their low thermal conductivity also makes them suitable for applications requiring both insulation and heat resistance.

Industrial Applications of Bakelite Sheet

Electrical and Electronics Industry

 

Bakelite Sheet

  

Bakelite Sheets remain a preferred insulation material in electrical systems. They are widely used in:

1. Transformer and switchgear insulation

2. High-voltage partitions and barriers

3. Terminal boards and insulating bushings

4. Electrical panels, motor components, and protective housings

5. PCB baseplates for low-frequency circuits

Their stability under electrical stress makes them an essential material in ensuring equipment reliability and safety.

Automotive and Aerospace Applications

 

Bakelite Sheet

  

In automotive engineering, Bakelite Sheets are applied in components exposed to heat and friction, such as:

1. Brake system parts

2. Clutch components

3. Transmission insulation elements

4. In aerospace applications, where lightweight and reliable insulation is critical, Bakelite Sheets are used for:

5. Interior structural panels

6. Cable supports and electrical connectors

7. High-strength insulating components

 

Their combination of light weight and mechanical stability contributes to improved system efficiency and long-term safety.

 

Industrial Machinery and General Manufacturing

 

Bakelite Sheet

  

Bakelite Sheets are valued for their machinability and mechanical strength, making them suitable for:

1. Jigs, fixtures, and machining plates

2. Wear-resistant mechanical parts

3. Welding fixtures and thermal shields

4. Chemical-resistant liners for tanks and pipelines

5. Gears, bearings, and precision tooling components

Their resistance to chemicals and heat ensures consistent performance across diverse industrial environments.

Manufacturing Process and Available Grades

Bakelite Sheets are produced using advanced lamination and curing processes. The phenolic resin is combined with a reinforcement substrate—paper, cotton, or glass fabric—then layered and pressed under controlled temperature and pressure to initiate resin cross-linking. After curing, the sheets are trimmed, stabilized, and inspected for quality.

Common industry grades include:

XX Grade – Paper-based phenolic with excellent electrical properties

XXX Grade – Cotton-reinforced for enhanced mechanical strength

C Grade – General-purpose paper phenolic for economical applications

CE Grade – Glass fabric-reinforced with superior mechanical and electrical performance

LE Grade – Linen-based with excellent machinability and strength

Each grade is designed for specific performance requirements depending on electrical, thermal, and mechanical needs.

Quality Assurance and Testing

To ensure consistent and reliable performance, YILONG applies strict quality control measures throughout the manufacturing cycle, including:

Resin purity and filler inspection

Controlled curing process monitoring

Dimensional accuracy checks

Dielectric strength and resistivity testing

Flexural, tensile, and impact strength evaluation

Thermal aging and heat resistance analysis

These measures guarantee that every Bakelite Sheet meets industry standards and performs reliably in end-use applications.

Conclusion

Bakelite Sheets continue to play a vital role in modern industrial applications thanks to their outstanding electrical insulation, mechanical strength, and thermal stability. Their versatility makes them suitable for industries ranging from electronics to automotive and heavy machinery. As demand for reliable insulating materials grows, Bakelite remains a trusted and cost-effective solution for engineers and manufacturers.

If you need high-quality Bakelite Sheets tailored to your project requirements, YILONG offers professional support, consistent quality, and over 20 years of experience in insulating materials.

Contact YILONG
Email: yilong@yilonginsulation.com
WhatsApp: +86-158-6686-9385
For technical consultation or product details, our team is ready to assist you.