Ryertex FR4 Products
Leave a CommentRyertex is a family of high-performance, fiber-reinforced plastic composites designed for use in demanding industrial applications. These materials are used for electrical insulation or as a metal substitute in high-speed, high-temperature, or high-load applications, or where lubrication loss is a concern. Due to their versatility, Ryertex composites are used extensively across industries like steel and aluminum mills, paper and lumber mills, oil and gas, copper processing, aerospace, mining, and construction equipment.
Among the various grades of Ryertex, Ryertex FR4 stands out for its exceptional combination of mechanical strength and flame-retardant properties. With a reputation for durability and reliability, this grade is a top choice for applications exposed to harsh operating conditions. Below, we’ll discuss the benefits of using Ryertex over other materials as well as the unique properties of Ryertex FR4, in particular.
Why Use Ryertex Over Other Materials
Since its introduction in the 1930s, Ryertex quickly became a valuable metal alternative, especially during World War II when the demand for metal replacements soared. Over time, it has become synonymous with quality, durability, and versatility in industrial components.
Ryertex, specifically the FR4 grade, is one of the most popular grades used in industrial settings due to its high strength and superior thermal properties. Unlike some other materials, Ryertex maintains excellent performance in tough conditions, making it a common choice for wear parts across diverse industries.
While Ryertex is a globally recognized brand, there are numerous other names in the marketplace that are thermoset laminate composites. These include names like Bakelite, Garolite, Lamitex, Micarta, Phenolic, and Resiten. At WS Hampshire, we can cross-reference your application requirements to the corresponding Ryertex solution. With a reputation for producing high-quality, custom-fabricated parts, we can provide Ryertex components such as bearings, bushings, and wear components, all tailored to meet your unique industrial needs.
Ryertex Grade FR4 Properties
Ryertex FR4 is a composite of woven fiber glass and epoxy resin, just as in G10, but with the addition of bromine to give flame-retardant properties. It is the most popular epoxy glass product on the market, with high demand particularly driven by the PCB industry due to its flame retardancy.
Here’s a closer look at the key properties of Ryertex FR4:
- Mechanical Strength. Ryertex FR4 is a high-performance, rigid industrial laminate with mechanical properties that exceed most other thermosets.
- Temperature Tolerance. It serves as a Class B electrical insulator up to temperatures of 325 °F, ensuring reliable performance in high-temperature environments.
- Low Water Absorption. This feature helps Ryertex FR4 maintain its mechanical properties even in high humidity or wet conditions.
- Customizability. Ryertex FR4 comes in sheets, tubes, and rods, with custom sizes and fabrication services available from WS Hampshire.
- Compliance. Ryertex FR4 adheres to NEMA G10, NEMA FR4, and MIL-I-24768-2 standards.
Because of its beneficial properties, Ryertex FR4 is commonly used for the following applications:
- Wear parts such as bushings, bearings, and wear pads
- Electrical and mechanical insulation
- Power generation and transmission
- High-humidity applications
Learn More From WS Hampshire
WS Hampshire is a trusted custom fabricator specializing in thermoset and thermoplastic products. With over 130 years of industry experience, we have earned a reputation for producing high-quality, non-metallic components that can replace metal parts in various industrial settings, helping to reduce weight and operational costs. From custom bearings and bushing to wear pads and sheaves, WS Hampshire provides engineered solutions tailored to your needs.
If you’re looking for reliable Ryertex FR4 products or other advanced thermoset materials, contact us today to learn how we can help with your next project.