Attwater Insights
Do you know your epoxy glass?
Attwater & Sons Ltd manufacture a range of epoxy glass laminates suited to a variety of applications. They are largely differentiated by their upper temperature capability, with Attwater having a solution to meet all needs.
G10
This term is well-known throughout the electrical insulation industry, with Attwater G10 being formulated as a direct alternative to NEMA G10. Manufactured to meet the requirements of BS EN 60893-3-2 EPGC201, this commercial grade epoxy glass laminate has excellent mechanical strength and electrical performance. It has a temperature index of 130ºC – also known as Thermal Class B.
B38
This material is a flame retardant (FR) version of Attwater G10 – achieving UL94 V-0 rating for vertical burning rate. An alternative to the commonly known NEMA FR4, Attwater B38 is manufactured to meet the requirements of BS EN 60893-3-2 EPGC202. It utilises a brominated epoxy resin system reinforced with an E-glass fabric, and has excellent electrical properties and machining characteristics. It has a temperature index of 130ºC – also known as Thermal Class B.
Also available in halogen free (HF) versions – please enquire.
B36
Another well-known NEMA grade is G11. This is, in many respects, much the same as G10 – but with greater retention of mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. Attwater’s offering here is B36, which is manufactured to meet the requirements of BS EN 60893-3-2 EPGC203. It has a temperature index of 155ºC – or Thermal Class F.
B48
Attwater B48 is the choice of material for very demanding applications, where retention of mechanical performance at even higher temperatures is required. This grade is manufactured to meet the requirements of BS EN 60893-3-2 EPGC308, and retains over 70% of its room temperature flexural strength when tested at 150ºC. It has a temperature index of 180ºC – or Thermal Class H.
For typical applications and Technical Datasheets for all grades, please refer to our website www.attwater.com/products
Sheet thicknesses available are 0.2mm to 100mm as standard for all grades, and up to 150mm or greater for G10 and B38. Thicker sections may be possible – please contact us with your specific enquiry. We carry extensive stocks, and for items not in stock most sheet sizes can be produced in a few weeks for small volumes.
Please forward your requirements to sales@attwater.com and we will be pleased to help with any queries you have.