Many parts and components we manufacture here at ESPE provide protection to personnel by covering electrical components and providing a barrier between the electric field and any conductive enclosure. When circuitry can be accessed, it is advisable to provide adequate warning markings to alert people to the dangerous voltages that the barriers isolate.
While our typical end use is protecting from electrical shock hazards, our products can be printed with pinch-point hazards, hot surface warnings, and even common part numbers or folding instructions for easy assembly. Stickers and labels can provide temporary warnings sometimes, but they will fade and can be easily removed or tampered with.
ESPE will work to provide permanent visual warnings to your fabricated barriers and coverings, protecting end users throughout the life of the product or machinery they go in. In this blog post, we’ll provide more details about printed product fabrication, pairing the correct fabrication method with the best printing method for the job.
Techniques of Fabrication
Printed products are produced in various methods that involve different processes and materials, including:
1. Steel Rule Die Cutting
Steel Rule Die cutting uses a single or several long blades bent to the part’s final dimensions, inlaid in a large flat board with grooves and punches matching the bent steel blade. The die is then set in a hydraulic press that stamps the steel blade into the material at extreme pressures, cutting scoring, and perforating shapes on materials as they progress through the machine. This production method is most conducive to embossing, but doing so increases die costs and requires remanufacturing of the dies for revisions of the design or wording.
2. Stamping
Stamping involves using a die to press a shape or design into a material using mechanical force. This process creates patterns on materials and could imprint lettering, but like embossing, it increases costs and requires remanufacturing upon revisions.
3. Laser Cutting
Laser cutting uses a high-powered laser to cut through or engrave materials. The laser’s intense heat melts and burns away the material at the beam’s focal point. Computer-controlled motion guides the laser over the material, creating precise cuts or patterns. Engraving with lasers can create sophisticated patterns and images at varying intensities to create depth with a resolution of up to 600 dpi. However, this method can be costly, as the time and energy needed to create a single 6″ x 6″ image at maximum resolution can take more time than cutting out hundreds of parts.
4. Drag Knife Cutting
Also referred to by us as digital die cutting, this method uses a sharp carbide knife on a large plotter to cut out shapes of nearly any dimension or complexity with very little initial investment in tooling. The same head that drags the knife can drag a pen; this is called plotting and can be used to drag around a ballpoint pen or felt marker to plot precise markings and letterings. While limited to a single color, it is the most economical method regarding upfront cost and revision for simple lettering. The machine can handle long, complicated drawings but, like laser engraving, can take much machine time.
5. Routing
Routing involves moving a fast spinning drill bit to cut out shapes and parts either too hard or too thick for other machining methods to accomplish cleanly. The depth and routing tool can be changed within the same setup to engrave or etch the part’s surface; this will leave a permanent channel in the material and can be revised easily but may not be the most visible, suiting this method best for part numbers or channels.
Types of Printing Methods
Here’s an overview of some key printing methods:
1. Silk Screening
Commonly referred to as screen printing, this method involves pressing ink through a mesh screen onto a part, creating images, patterns, or text. It’s the go-to choice for producing vivid designs in a repeatable fashion, as it can use any color of ink in any shape by layering different colors.
2. Ink Printing
This traditional yet effective method employs inked plates to transfer designs onto materials. It’s widely used for producing high-quality images on paper, packaging, cloth, and various surfaces. This is perhaps the highest fidelity printing method but could be considered overkill for hazard labels and part numbers.
3. Scribing/Etching
Scribing or etching involves creating markings on a material’s surface through mechanical means. This technique is commonly used for engraving or marking metals, producing permanent and legible markings, such as serial numbers. This is not to be confused with chemical etching, which is another process entirely
4. Hot Stamping
Hot stamping involves pressing heated dies onto foil and transferring a thin layer of pigment or metallic material onto a substrate. This method is rudimentary as it relies on set block lettering to achieve simple indications like a multi-position switch. Being limited to a few letters and a small surface area limits the capabilities of hot stamping to niche situations but can be an economical option when the desired lettering is minimal.
5. Plotting
This method employs computer instructions to drag pens or markers across paper or other materials. Originally used for technical drawings, the technology has been co-opted to mark finished products. Plotting is limited to a single pen or marker color but can be done while other production methods are deployed, saving setup and production time.
6. Embossing
Embossing raises the design from the material’s surface by pressing it between two dies. This method adds texture, depth, and decorative elements to paper, plastic, and metal. The result is a tactile and visually appealing effect that enhances the overall appearance. While this method works best with rigid metals like a license plate, certain plastics also take well to embossed lettering like a credit card number.
7. Engraving
Engravings are cut or carved designs, text, or patterns into a material’s surface using mechanical force or lasers. We can create intricate and lasting markings on surfaces; however, the path the tool or laser needs to travel to complete the engraving is typically many times the length of the exterior of the part and, as such, can be a significant percentage of the overall machine time and thus cost per part.
This method should be limited to harsh outdoor environments where even inks can break down highly intricate and visually significant cosmetically focused parts. An acrylic port hole cover may need permanent engravings to indicate fluid level, or a channel may be cut behind a gasket to provide airflow behind an otherwise flat plate.
Experience the Potential of Printed Product Fabrication With ESPE Manufacturing Co.
Ready to evolve your manufacturing business? Partner with ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc.! We are a trusted company prepared to provide expert guidance and innovative solutions to make your vision tangible. We cater to various industries with our wide range of services, including fabrication, laser cutting, stamping, and more!
Take the next step and contact us to learn more. You may also request a quote to transform your creative ideas into tangible products today!
Using materials with insulative properties has become crucial due to the increasing need for energy conservation. These materials are often employed in various industrial applications — such as construction, transportation, and packaging — to enhance energy efficiency and reduce overall consumption. They are also crucial in maintaining indoor temperatures, reducing noise pollution, and preventing energy loss.
ESPE Manufacturing Co. is a trusted supplier of electrical insulators, including washers, gaskets, and fabricated plastic parts. We also specialize in the fabrication and conversion of non-metallic materials, allowing us to serve diverse markets and industries.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the materials we at ESPE work with and their respective dielectric properties.
What Are Dielectric Properties?
Dielectric properties are the electrical characteristics of a material that acts as an insulator, impeding the flow of electricity. These properties play a vital role in industries where electrical insulation is critical, such as telecommunications, electronics, and power transmission.
Here are three essential dielectric properties of a material:
Dielectric Constant: Also known as relative permittivity, this is the measure of how well a specific material can store electrical energy.
Dielectric Strength: This is the maximum electric field strength that a material can withstand before breaking down.
Loss Tangent: This is the energy lost as heat when a dielectric material is subjected to an alternating electric field.
Dielectric Materials and Their Properties
ESPE works with several electrical insulating materials to cater to diverse applications. Listed below are some of the materials we use and offer:
Formex is an insulating material recognized for its flame-retardant insulation and adaptability for various applications. It possesses excellent dielectric strength, with 0.010-inch Formex GK having 2200 V/mil strength. This makes it highly resistant to electrical surges. Additionally, it has a UL 94V-0 Flame Class Rating that meets global safety standards.
The exceptional dielectric properties of Formex are further enhanced by its non-hygroscopic quality, which means that it has an extremely low moisture absorption rate of less than 0.06%. This characteristic enables the material to retain its electrical insulation properties for an extended period.
ESPE specializes in the design, production, and distribution of Nomex materials, such as Nomex papers and Nomex pressboards. The formulation of these products involves incorporating meta-aramid polymers into their great, heat-resistant synthetic fibers. As a result, they possess outstanding electrical insulating properties and resistance to chemicals, heat, and radiation.
Nomex Type 410 is an insulation paper providing exceptional dielectric strength, mechanical toughness, flexibility, and resilience. It is available in 12 different thicknesses, ranging from 0.05 to 0.76 mm, for almost any electrical sheet insulation application. Specifically, the 0.010-inch Nomex paper has a dielectric strength of 815 V/mil, making it an excellent choice for high-voltage uses.
At ESPE, we offer a wide variety of vulcanized fiber and fishpaper products. Vulcanized fiber is a chemically pure cellulose material that is environmentally friendly as it contains no adhesives or resins. This low-pressure laminate is produced by reacting cotton or natural wood with various chemicals, including acids, bases, and zinc chloride.
Meanwhile, fishpaper is an insulating board or paper made from vulcanized cotton. It is a flexible material easily cut and shaped to fit around electrical components. As a result, it is commonly used to insulate electric motors, generators, and transformers.
A 0.015-inch vulcanized fiber boasts a moderate dielectric strength of 200 V/mil. It is useful for many electrical insulation applications and can provide adequate protection against electrical surges and breakdowns.
ESPE Manufacturing: Your Trusted Partner for High-Quality Electrical Insulation Materials
At ESPE Manufacturing, we have over 70 years of experience developing and distributing electrical insulators. Our expert team can also help you choose the best material for your requirements, as we cater to multiple markets and understand materials’ distinct properties.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about our products and services or to request a quote. Let ESPE be your trusted partner for all your electrical insulator needs!
A suitable electrical insulator can help prevent electric shocks and other electricity-related hazards. But how would you know which products are the best and most reliable? Don’t fret! ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc. got you covered! We have one of the most extensive inventories of electrical insulation in the Midwest.
In this article, we feature our Nomex product lines, one of the high-quality products we designed, manufactured, and distributed. We vigorously promote our customized Nomex products to meet the wide range of applications requiring excellent compact insulation materials.
So, What Is Nomex?
Nomex is a flame-resistant material developed by DuPont in the early 1960s and was first commercialized in 1967. It is typically available in two forms: paper, or rolls of thin gauge material, and pressboard, or sheets of medium or thick gauge material. What’s more, Nomex is chemical, thermal, and radiation resistant, allowing it to strengthen and extend the life of your products.
When it comes to electrical insulation, it has long gained recognition for exceptional quality and dependability. Use it appropriately, and it will extend the useful life of your electrical system while decreasing the likelihood of it malfunctioning.
What Are Electrical Insulators, And Why Are They Important?
Electrical insulators, as the name implies, are synthetic materials that resist the current that flows through them. Simply put, electricity does not pass through these materials because the primary function of insulators is to prevent electricity from flowing outside of conductors and contain it only where it is supposed to flow.
These materials are essential in preventing electrical hazards such as electricity leakage and electric shock. Short circuits with low current flows, which are frequently caused by poor electrical insulation, are often the source of leaks. On the other hand, electric shocks occur when a person comes into contact with a source of electric energy. Take note that the results of these shocks can range from no injury to death.
To better understand how electrical insulators work, examine how electrical cables are made and structured. These cables are typically filled with wires made of metals such as copper, aluminum, and silver. The wires serve as electrical conductors, allowing electricity to flow freely. After securing the inside of the cables, coatings are added to act as insulators, and they only allow electricity to flow within the cord. Nylon, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), and wire enamels are some commonly used standard coatings.
One of the most crucial things to remember is that electrical insulators are critical and must be used correctly. Each has resistance value, so choosing the best material for your application is vital.
What Is Nomex Insulation Paper, And Other Nomex Types?
Nomex 410 is the original Nomex insulation paper widely used in various electrical equipment applications, including sheet insulation and manufacturing of electrical components. It possesses high-performance insulation with excellent intrinsic material capacity, electrical durability, flexibility, and resilience. It is sold in rolls with thicknesses ranging from 0.002-0.03 in (0.05-0.76 mm) to accommodate a wide range of gravities.
Some of the features of Nomex 410 include:
Excellent heat-resistance ability and does not melt easily
Quality thermal stability that can withstand temperatures up to 220°C
Satisfactory resistance to splitting and scraping
Intrinsic dielectric strength
Broad chemical compatibility that can resist solvents, acids, and alkalis
Additionally, some of the applications of Nomex 410 are:
Wire and cable industry
Welding equipment
Mining equipment
Engine and motors industry
Electrical and electronic industry
We also offer other available Nomex products which cover every type of Nomex paper and pressboard and serve your custom-manufactured fabricated parts:
Nomex 993 is a sheet pressboard material available in thicknesses ranging from 0.04-0.16 in (1.0-4.0 mm) for specific gravities. This product can preserve its general structure and resistance while conforming to minor imperfections on the exterior it is lining. Nomex 993 also seals well with electrical contacts.
Nomex 994 is the denser version of Nomex 993. It is typically used in similar but more heavyweight applications. It is available in thicknesses of 0.04-0.380 in (1.0-9.6 mm) and can withstand compressive loads due to its superior stability and excellent absorption.
Let ESPE Handle All Your Nomex Needs!
ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc. is ready to help you find the best insulation solution for your electrical systems. With a complete stock of Nomex 410, Nomex 993, and Nomex 994 product lines available, combined with our full suite of fabrication and manufacturing capabilities, we ensure to be your go-to source for Nomex rolls, sheets, and other products.
We can help you develop and manufacture prototypes and customized parts in low or mass-producing orders at the quickest turnaround time possible. React to us and request a quote for your next project.
Electrical insulation involves non-electrically conductive material used to control the flow of electricity and protect sensitive components. Various materials can be used, such as rubber, plastic or material like Formex for insulation. These materials work by blocking the passage of electrons more effectively than semiconducting and conducting materials. This means that they can be used as a protective barrier around the conductor, ensuring energy stays on a specific path and doesn’t interact with other components, causing short-circuiting.
Importance of PCB & Battery Insulation
In applications involving PCBs, insulation acts as the dielectric material used to separate conducting elements and layers. Most PCBs used today are multilayered, which means multiple adhesion points are present. This increased board height requires more soldering and makes proper insulation vital to the board’s effectiveness. In PCB applications, having a thorough understanding of your PCB’s construction is the best way to ensure it’s insulated adequately and can operate at its highest potential.
Another key application for electrical insulation is in batteries. Electrical vehicle batteries, for example, require insulation between each component to ensure no electrical arc can arise between battery components. This is a necessary precaution to prevent fires, shocks, high temperatures, short circuits, and more.
When choosing a material to insulate PCBs and batteries, there are several factors that should be considered. One of the primary concerns is the material’s thickness in relation to its efficiency. Insulating material needs to be highly effective, but thickness also needs to be taken into account. Certain insulation applications feature highly compact components that are not suited to a particularly thick material.
It’s also important to consider what type of processing your insulator should undergo. Certain insulation materials are significantly easier to process than others and, depending on your application, this may be a significant concern. However, an easy-to-process material might not perform according to your required standards. Insulation weight and cost-to-function ratio should also be factored into decision-making. For PCB and battery insulation applications, a particularly high-performing material is ITW Formex. This material is uniquely suited to PCB and battery applications, meeting all of the typical demands.
Why Formex?
ITW Formex is ideal for protecting delicate components and is widely used throughout many applications. It offers excellent dielectric strength and provides reliable mechanical protection. Formex can be formed into even the most complex three-dimensional shapes by die-cutting, scoring, and bending. In PCB insulation applications, Formex is used for barriers between PC boards as well as between PC boards and housings.
Formex electrical insulation is made from polypropylene, which is lightweight and inexpensive, while meeting rigorous electrical barrier and insulation requirements. With a flame class rating of UL 94V-0, Formex has excellent flame-retardant properties and will not combust or melt at temperatures up to 239° F.
Additionally, ITW Formex features several key characteristics that allow it to outperform other insulation materials, such as preventing electrically charged components from arcing. Formex is ideal for many types of EV battery applications as it protects from contact corrosion, provides EMI shielding capabilities, and more. For electric vehicle battery applications, Formex stands up to chemical, mechanical, and environmental demands.
ESPE Manufacturing: Your Source for Reliable Insulation
PCBs and batteries are used throughout nearly every industry and require high performing, reliable insulation. Formex contains many beneficial characteristics that make it ideally suited to these applications. In addition to being uniquely easy to shape, it also features notable strength and valuable fire-retardant properties, all while being cost-effective.
ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc., has been providing high-quality electrical insulation solutions since 1948 and features one of the largest inventories in the Midwest. We offer ITW Formex rolls and sheets and carry several varieties suitable for a wide selection of applications. Our experts can help you select the best type for your project. Browse our catalog or contact us to get started. To partner with us and take advantage of Formex insulation for your application, request a quote today.
ESPE Manufacturing works with a number of electrical insulation materials and with a variety of fabrication methods. Even the most complex specifications are manufactured accurately using techniques such as laser cutting, die cutting, digital plastic cutting, and more. We provide prototyping services and can fabricate custom parts in both high and low production volumes. Our products are available in many suitable materials, including PTFE or Teflon® for electrical insulation purposes.
Teflon® is the widely recognized brand name for polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is a type of plastic that is used to coat various products and equipment, creating a non-stick, waterproof, non-reactive, and corrosion-resistant protective barrier. Teflon® is extensively used throughout various industries, including automotive, construction, aerospace, and more, for applications such as pipes, gears, wires, and cables.
Why is Teflon® Good for Electrical Insulation?
Teflon® is impervious to nearly all solvents and chemicals, including those frequently used in electronics manufacturing. It is a very resilient, non-reactive material that can withstand temperatures ranging from -454° F to 600° F (-234° C to 315° C), making it an excellent insulator for electrical applications exposed to extreme heat or cold.
Teflon® is composed of carbon-fluorine bonds that are very flexible, even after significant bending and stressing. Teflon® insulated wires cannot be cross-linked and have a long, reliable flex life. The extreme durability of Teflon® ensures long-lasting protection of electrical components.
Teflon® also displays excellent dielectric strength, making it an excellent electrical insulator. Teflon® coated components are very low friction, meaning components will experience minimal resistance. At ESPE Manufacturing, we can produce a variety of Teflon® electrical insulation products, including:
Bearings
Bushings
Gears
Slide plates
Piston rings
Seals
O-rings
Spacers
And more
Advantages and Benefits of Teflon® Parts
There are many benefits of Teflon® parts, including:
Versatility. One of the primary benefits of Teflon® parts is their versatility, meaning it is suitable for an extensive range of applications and industries.
Corrosion resistance. Another key advantage of Teflon® parts is their corrosion resistance, which makes them especially useful for electrical insulation.
Water and oil resistance. Teflon® parts repel water and oil, which increases the lifetime of the part itself as well as the application it’s used in.
Non-stick. Teflon® is non-stick, meaning Teflon® parts are easy to clean, typically only requiring a wipe down.
Low friction. Teflon® parts exhibit low friction properties, which offer reduced wear and longer-lasting components. This makes Teflon® parts an excellent option for industrial applications involving parts or gears that slide against each other.
Dielectric properties and high melting point. The non-conductive properties and high melting point of Teflon® parts make them a popular choice for electrical wiring and insulation for a variety of industries.
Teflon® Electrical Insulation from ESPE Manufacturing
The significant advantages of Teflon® make it a natural choice for electrical insulation projects. Teflon® parts work longer and more effectively than alternatives and can easily be incorporated into a wide array of applications. ESPE Manufacturing offers a wide range of Teflon® fabrication services that can be customized to meet your application’s exact needs. We have a long history of delivering effective non-metallic solutions, and we possess one of the largest electrical insulation inventories in the Midwest. To learn more, view our catalog or contact us today.
Electrical insulation is crucial in various applications to prevent the free flow of electricity. Mylar helps channel electricity where it needs to go while preventing short circuits and eliminating electrocution dangers. ESPE Manufacturing Co., Inc. has an enormous selection of materials to fabricate components and parts that can be used as electrical insulation, including Mylar.
What is Mylar?
In the 1950s, a trio of chemical companies, Hoechst, DuPont, and Imperial Chemical, developed Mylar–a stretched polyester film that is commonly used for solar filters, protective plastic coatings, insulators, space blankets, and shiny helium balloons. The technical composition of the groundbreaking material is biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate, or BoPET. NASA was one of the first to use and experience the benefits in its 1964 Echo II balloon.
To create Mylar, molten PET is extruded as a thin film over a chilled roller or other surface. Special machinery draws the film in biaxial directions using heated rollers. The final step involves setting the film by holding it under pressure at a high temperature. The result is an extremely smooth and pure film that adheres to itself. To prevent this, inorganic particles or metals can be embedded in the surface.
The properties of Mylar make it an excellent component for food packaging applications such as yogurt lids, roasting bags, and various foil packages. Because of its electrical insulating properties, it is often used in manufacturing, automotive, electronics, and space travel applications.
Properties
The properties listed below allow for an ideal choice in a wide variety of applications:
Dielectric strength. Mylar is an excellent electrical insulator with a typical DC dielectric strength of 11.0 kV/mil and a typical AC dielectric strength of 7.0 kV/mil.
Corona threshold voltage. Mylar has one of the highest corona resistance levels of any plastic film, which makes it able to endure short surges of overvoltages easily.
Dielectric constant. The typical dielectric constant ranges from 2.8 to 3.7, depending on the temperature of the film.
Dissipation factor. The typical dissipation factor of Mylar ranges from 0.0002 to 0.016, depending on the temperature of the film.
Insulation Resistance. Mylar film has exceptional insulation resistance over a broad range of temperatures.
Volume Resistivity. The volume resistivity of the material decreases as temperature increases, with Mylar Type C having about one order of magnitude higher volume resistivity than Type EL film at 257° F.
Tracking Resistance. When dry, the material doesn’t track, but moisture can lead to tracking erosion.
Arc Resistance. Mylar possesses an arc resistance time of 73 to 94 seconds. This shows that the material has an advantage over materials that track.
The Advantages of Mylar for Electrical Insulation
The benefits of Mylar film come from its excellent electrical insulation properties under a wide variety of conditions. In addition to those listed above, it also includes the following advantages for electrical insulation:
Tensile strength and toughness
Mylar is tough and has a higher tensile strength than most insulating materials. It has a tensile strength of 25,000 psi and elongation at 170% without breaking.
Creep
Creep measurements indicate how a material deforms under a wide range of mechanical stressors. Under various conditions, the material resists creep very well.
Thermal aging
UL thermal aging standards show that Mylar has a temperature index of 302° F. This means that it will not degrade at service temperatures below 302° F, providing a long service life for various electrical insulator applications.
Mylar Available from ESPE Manufacturing
Mylar is one of many electrical insulation materials, and it provides a particularly wide range of benefits for industries such as automotive, electrical, lighting, wind energy, and many others. At ESPE, we offer a wide range of electrical insulation materials to fit the specifications of your project. For more information about this material, or to get started on your electrical insulation solution, contact us or request a quote today.
At ESPE Manufacturing, we specialize in the manufacture of high-quality custom plastic parts and products, including electrical insulating materials. We maintain an extensive inventory of non-metallic materials for use in our manufacturing operations and distribution to our customers. One of our core material offerings is electrical insulation. Below, we provide an overview of this material, including what it is, why it is needed, how it is used, typical applications, and types available.
The 5 Basic Aspects of Electrical Insulation
1. What Is Electrical Insulation?
Electrical insulation refers to materials that do not allow electricity to flow through them freely (e.g., rubber or plastic). In contrast, conductors and semiconductors do allow electricity to flow through them freely (e.g., copper). This difference in performance stems from the difference in their resistivity. Electrical insulating materials have higher resistivity than semiconducting and conducting materials, which means electrons do not pass as easily through the former as they do through the latter.
2. Why Is It Needed?
Electrical insulators help control the flow of electricity. They ensure energy reaches the desired destination within the system by acting as a barrier around the conductor, preventing the energy from straying from the preferred path. In doing so, they also prevent electricity from flowing to other components, which can cause short-circuiting or electrocution depending on the configuration of the system.
3. A Glimpse at the Process
The following illustration points out the process of electrical insulation:
4. Applications That Use Electrical Insulation
Some of the primary applications that require electrical insulation include:
Automotive components
Computers and computer peripherals
Consumer products
Conventional and uninterruptible power supplies
Electrical and power distribution systems
Lighting
Medical equipment
Telecommunications equipment
5. Commonly Used Electrical Insulation Materials
There are many types of electrical insulation materials available. Some of the most commonly used include:
Cardboard/Paper: These materials are a cost-effective option for insulation applications involving low heat and voltages.
Clay (ceramic or porcelain): This material is the standard for high-voltage and radio-frequency (RF) insulators.
Glass (limestone, silica, and soda ash): This material is used occasionally in low-voltage applications.
Mica: This material offers good electrical insulation and thermal conduction properties.
Perfluoroalkoxy (PFA): This material is flexible, transparent, and chemical resistant. It is commonly used in near-ocean applications due to its salt spray resistance.
Rubber: This material was used as an insulation in natural and synthetic variations up until the 1950s. However, it has since been largely replaced with plastics.
The experts at ESPE Manufacturing fabricate a variety of custom parts and products from electrical insulation material. Check out the list below to see the material options available.
Electrical Insulation Material Offerings and Options at ESPE
At ESPE, we utilize a wide range of electrical insulating materials in our custom manufacturing operations. The primary materials we work with are:
Formex: Formex is a brand of electrical insulation materials, all of which are made from flame-retardant polypropylene. They are a versatile and cost-effective solution for a variety of applications, ranging from consumer appliances and electronics to commercial data centers to industrial-scale systems.
Nomex: Nomex is a line of paper and pressboard insulation products. These meta-aramid polymer materials offer chemical, thermal, and radiation resistance in addition to their electrical insulation properties. They are commonly used in the aerospace, automotive, power generation, and marine industries.
Fishpaper/Vulcanized Fibre: Fishpaper is the generic term for electrical grade vulcanized fibre. It is lightweight, easy to work, and resistant to hot and cold conditions. It is often used in the production of components such as bushings, washers, gaskets, and more. Fibre is the generic term for commercial grade vulcanized fibre. It is hard, durable, and chemically pure and offers excellent strength, flexibility, and workability. It is often used in the manufacture of components such as gaskets, insulating plates, and washers.
We also offer a variety of other types and grades of electrical insulating plastics and papers.
ESPE Manufacturing: Your Expert and Partner for Electrical Insulation
Electrical insulation is essential to ensuring electrical and electronic devices, equipment, and systems are safe. However, the type employed depends on the application, with different applications requiring different electrical resistivity and other physical, mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties. While determining which electrical insulating materials are right for your application can be difficult, the experts at ESPE Manufacturing are here to help.
Whether you’re looking for an electrical insulation material supplier or a manufacturer of electrical insulating parts and products, we can meet your needs. To learn more about our material offerings and options, check out our material catalog. To discuss your material or manufacturing needs with one of our experts, contact us or request a quote today.
