A Guide to Epoxy Glass CNC Machining

Key Takeaways

• Epoxy glass combines epoxy resin and fiberglass to deliver high strength, heat resistance, and electrical insulation.

• FR-4 and G-10 grades provide different levels of flame resistance for a wide range of industrial applications.

• Fiber orientation and machining considerations are critical to prevent chipping, moisture-related issues, and performance loss.

Overview

Epoxy glass is a composite material that combines epoxy resin with fiberglass. Epoxy resin is an organic material that, once cured, becomes extremely hard and offers excellent heat resistance, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation.

Fiberglass, on the other hand, is glass drawn into fine strands—lightweight yet remarkably strong and rigid. By combining the two, the resulting composite leverages the best properties of each material.

Thanks to its low weight, high strength, and excellent heat resistance, chemical resistance, and electrical insulation, epoxy glass sees widespread use across a broad range of industries.

The material is characterized primarily by the following properties:

• Excellent mechanical strength

• High heat resistance

• Electrical insulation

• Excellent chemical resistance

• Flame retardancy

• Low electrical conductivity

Types of Epoxy Glass

Epoxy glass is available in the slow-burning G-10 series (UL 94HB) and the flame-retardant FR-4 (UL V-0).

• FR-4

• G-10

Specifications

Standard Sizes for Epoxy Glass Sheets and Rods:

Handling and Machining Considerations

• Epoxy glass has a fiber orientation that must be taken into account. When remanufacturing a broken part or placing a repeat order, specifying the fiber direction upfront will help avoid issues down the line.

• Susceptible to impact and can chip or crack under sharp loads.

• Poor wear resistance, making it a poor fit for sliding or wear components.

• Relatively high tendency to absorb moisture and water.

Manufacturers of Epoxy Glass

• Ryoden Chemical Co., Ltd.

• Toyolite Co., Ltd.

• Risho Industries Co., Ltd.

• Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Ltd.

Epoxy Glass CNC Machining at Yumoto Electric

Yumoto Electric delivers high-quality components fast, worldwide. We provide precision machining for a wide range of engineering plastics, including PEEK, PPS, MC Nylon, and POM.

If you’re unsure about material selection or machining methods, we offer complimentary consultations to help optimize your design and production. For any questions, please feel free to contact us.