Archive: Aug 2025

The Role of Ryertex® in Electrical Insulation for PowerGen Systems

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Ryertex® is a family of fiber-reinforced plastic composites developed to deliver superior performance in high-stress industrial applications. Designed to replace metal in wear-heavy environments, Ryertex® materials offer excellent electrical insulation, thermal stability, and resistance to friction and corrosion. These qualities make them ideal for industries such as steel production, oil and gas, paper and lumber processing, and more.

In PowerGen systems, where components must endure intense electrical, thermal, and mechanical demands, Ryertex® provides a reliable alternative to traditional materials. Whether used in bearings or wear plates, Ryertex® helps extend equipment life and improve system safety.

Ryertex® Properties in PowerGen Systems

PowerGen systems operate under conditions that challenge the durability of conventional materials. Components face high voltages, elevated temperatures, and constant mechanical loading. Ryertex® excels in this environment thanks to the following key properties:

  • Electrical insulation. Designed to resist the flow of unwanted current, Ryertex® materials help protect equipment and personnel from electrical hazards. This makes them essential in high-voltage assemblies such as switchgear and transformers.
  • High-temperature performance. Certain grades of Ryertex®, including Ryertex® G10 and Ryertex® FR4, can withstand prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures. This thermal stability supports safe and reliable performance in areas near heat-generating equipment.
  • Wear resistance. When used in bushings and bearings, Ryertex® helps reduce friction and surface degradation, which minimizes maintenance needs and prolongs component service life.
  • Strength and durability. With high strength and stiffness, Ryertex® can support the mechanical stresses common in PowerGen equipment.
  • Material substitution. Compared to metal, Ryertex® reduces weight and resists corrosion while maintaining structural strength. These benefits translate to greater system efficiency and lower lifecycle costs.

Ryertex® Applications in PowerGen Systems

Given its unique material advantages, Ryertex® is used in a variety of high-performance PowerGen system components:

  • Bearings and bushings. Common in turbines and generators, Ryertex® bushings and bearings reduce mechanical wear and improve operational lifespan.
  • Insulating spacers and washers. These precision parts maintain safe electrical separation between conductive surfaces, helping prevent shorts and failures.
  • Transformer components. Ryertex® is used for internal coil supports and insulating barriers that endure both electrical and mechanical stresses.
  • Switchgear components. Its insulating strength makes Ryertex® ideal for barriers, mounts, and supports in high-voltage switchgear systems.

Grades

Each Ryertex® grade is engineered for specific environments and performance needs. Examples include:

  • Ryertex® G10. A fiberglass-reinforced epoxy laminate offering high strength and low moisture absorption, ideal for electrical insulation applications.
  • Ryertex® FR4. Similar to G10, but flame-retardant—ideal where fire safety is a concern.
  • Ryertex® C. Canvas phenolic offering excellent machinability and wear resistance.
  • Ryertex® LE. Linen-based composite with strong dielectric properties and dimensional stability.
  • Ryertex® CG. A canvas phenolic laminate enhanced with graphite for low friction and excellent wear resistance.
  • Ryertex® HDM. Heavy-duty canvas with moly-disulfide for self-lubrication and high load-bearing capacity.

Learn More from WS Hampshire

WS Hampshire is a trusted source for high-performance thermoset and thermoplastic components tailored to your application needs. Our team fabricates custom bearings, bushings, wear pads, and electrical insulation parts that stand up to the harsh conditions of PowerGen systems.

With over 130 years of experience, we help industries transition from traditional metal to advanced non-metallic materials that reduce weight, lower costs, and boost performance. To learn more about Ryertex® applications or request a custom solution, contact us today.

Structural Applications of Ryertex in PowerGen Facilities

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Ryertex is a family of high-performance, fiber-reinforced plastic composites used for electrical insulation and wear applications, especially where high speeds, heavy loads, and extreme temperatures are present. Ryertex has demonstrated proven performance in industries like aerospace, aluminum and steel mills, copper processing, mining, military, and oil and gas. Its versatility also makes it a critical material in power generation and distribution facilities where durable, heat-resistant components are essential.

Ryertex Properties

Since the 1930s, Ryertex has rapidly gained recognition as a trusted material that can replace metal in certain industrial applications. It met an immediate need in World War II when demand for non-metallic components surged. Today, it continues to provide exceptional performance in even the toughest environments.

Ryertex FR4

One of the most popular Ryertex grades is FR4, a flame-retardant laminate known for its robust mechanical strength and superior thermal properties. This grade maintains excellent performance even under extreme conditions, making it a preferred choice for components like wear plates and fiber bearings. At WS Hampshire, we offer custom-fabricated Ryertex FR4 solutions such as bushings, bearings, and more, tailored to meet your specific needs.

Ryertex G10 and G11

For more demanding applications, Ryertex G10 and Ryertex G11 are excellent choices. Ryertex G10 is a fiberglass-reinforced laminate with epoxy resin that offers exceptional electrical insulation, heat resistance, and mechanical strength. Ryertex G11 provides enhanced thermal stability at higher temperatures, making it ideal for environments where standard materials would fail. These materials are often used in data centers, cutting-edge technologies like fusion energy, and renewable energy systems such as solar and wind.

Ryertex G10 and G11 materials offer:

  • High dielectric strength. It guarantees reliable electrical insulation in high-voltage settings.
  • Superior mechanical strength. This maintains structural integrity over time.
  • Heat and flame resistance. G10 handles up to 130 °C, and G11 withstands temperatures up to 180 °C.
  • Chemical and moisture resistance. It ensures longevity in harsh environmental conditions.
  • Low thermal expansion. The material maintains dimensional stability even under fluctuating temperatures.

Ryertex Applications in PowerGen Facilities

A review of key Ryertex applications reveals why the material is vital to the power generation sector. Due to its excellent mechanical and electrical properties, Ryertex is the go-to material for components that must withstand tough conditions, providing the durability and performance that powergen facilities rely on.

Cooling System Components

Ryertex improves both air-cooled and liquid cooling systems, particularly in components that must withstand high temperatures without compromising performance. Its heat-resistant properties make Ryertex an excellent choice for these critical parts.

Wear Components

Ryertex is commonly used in components like fiber bearings and wear plates in powergen facilities where high speeds, heavy loads, and temperatures can break down traditional materials. It’s a viable alternative to metal, and it reduces the need for lubrication, guaranteeing consistent operation in challenging environments.

Metal Replacement

Ryertex serves as a replacement for metal in certain applications, particularly when lubrication is hard to maintain or when a lighter material is needed. Its winning combination of strength, durability, and low friction makes Ryertex a valuable choice for many industrial components.

Bearings and Bushings

Ryertex offers low-friction solutions in even the most demanding conditions, so it’s commonly used in plain and sleeve bearings. It performs well under stress and high heat, making it a reliable material for these important components in powergen facilities.

Partner with WS Hampshire for Your Ryertex Needs

WS Hampshire is a trusted provider of custom Ryertex solutions for power facilities and beyond. With an extensive background dating back to the 1890s, we specialize in the engineering and fabrication of high-quality, non-metallic components that replace traditional metals in heavy-duty environments. Our expertise allows us to deliver custom bearings, bushings, wear pads, and other components that boost performance, reduce assembly weight, and lower operating costs.

To learn more about how our Ryertex solutions can enhance your operations or to inquire about custom components, contact us today.