Fibre, first patented in 1869, offers flexibility, impact resistance, high tear strength and a smooth, abrasion resistant surface. It can be machined, punched, slit, threaded, formed, molded and wound into tubes for literally countless applications. It provides excellent electrical insulation values, and is arc and track resistant. Even though composed of cotton and wood pulp, standard VF can be used at operating temperatures of 110C-120C and has a flame resistance rating of U.L. 94HB. The use of additives and/or coatings can provide a rating of 94VO, and laminating to polyester film will bring the U.L. thermal rating up to 130C.
Vulcanized Fibre is impervious to most organic solvents, oils, and petroleum derivatives. This makes it an excellent choice for use in oil. Like wood, to which it is related, VF will absorb water, but will not delaminate in its presence. It will tend to “breath” or adjust its moisture content as the ambient moisture level changes.
As a tribute to its tremendous physical strength, Vulcanized Fibre is the substrate of choice for heavy sanding discs. VF has been used for these abrasive discs since they were first developed. The application requires a backing that is tough, flexible and tear resistant to withstand 20,000 RPM’s while in direct contact with rough steel welds. Here a loose piece of material becomes a dangerous projectile and a weak backer leads to excessive downtime.
The newer wood laminating grade of vulcanized fibre strengthens wood laminations used in skis, skateboards, support beams and as a sub-laminate under thin wood veneers.
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| Typical Properties of Vulcanized Fibre | |
|---|---|
| Tensile Strength, psi | 6,000-12,000 |
| Flexural Strength, psi | 12,000-20,000 |
| Compressive Strength | 20,000-30,000 |
| Shear Strength, psi | 11,000-15,000 |
| Impact Strength, ft/lbs per in. | 4-8 |
| Rockwell Hardness | R60-R100 |
| Density, gm/cc | 1.1-1.3 |
| Dielectric Strength, vpm | 150-400 |
| Power Factor, 1000kc | .03-.08 |
| Dielectric Constant | 4-7 |
| Water Absorption, 2hr,1/8″,% | 15 |
| Thermal Conductivity, Btu/hr/sqft/F/in | 3 |
Available in red, black, and grey in thicknesses from .005 to .093