What Is G10 Material?

G10 material, also known as FR-4 glass epoxy composite laminate, is a thermoset fiberglass composite often referred to as Micarta*, Garolite, or Bakelite*. Manufactured from glass filament cloth with a di-functional or tri-functional epoxy binder, G10 material is renowned for its dimensional stability, electrical insulating properties, and moisture resistance. This makes it ideal for a wide range of electrical and mechanical applications. Both FR4 machining and G10 material machining are commonly utilized to achieve the precise shapes and specifications required for these demanding uses.

What Is the difference between G10 and FR-4 Machining Material?

G10 materials fall under the category of thermoset industrial laminates produced from a layered construction of substrates impregnated with a thermoset resin and cured under heat or pressure.  They fall under standards published by NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) which provide minimum values for grades of thermoset laminates.

NEMA provides two grade values for this category of industrial laminates, G10 and FR4.  The FR4 is the fire retardant grade of G10.

Talk to the FR4 & G10 Machining Experts at Jaco

Unparalleled expertise in machined FR4 and G10 machining of high-performance parts. Talk to us about your next project.

G10 Material Properties | G10 Material Specifications:

The appearance or natural color of G10 / FR4 glass reinforced epoxy is light green to yellowish laminate. The laminate is typically manufactured from continuous woven glass fabric and impregnated with an epoxy resin that provides properties ideal for electronics applications due to superior electrical insulation properties.

G-10 FR-4 glass epoxy laminate meets the following specifications:

  • G10 FR4 : Mil-I-24768/27 GEE-F
  • G10 : Mil-I-24768/2 GEE
  • G10 FR4 : LP 509
  • G10 FR4 : MIL P 18177 Type GEE
  • NEMA FR4
machining g10 material that is slightly green

G-10 FR4 Sheets provide:

  • A maximum continuous operating temperature: 285°F
  • Excellent machinability
  • Excellent electrical characteristics
  • Low moisture absorption
  • Great dimensional stability (shrinkage is less than 1%)
  • Abrasive Texture
  • Good chemical resistance particularly under moist and humid conditions
  • Extremely high mechanical strength
  • Superior adhesive properties
  • Good dielectric loss properties
  • NEMA FR4 fire resistance
  • Commonly known as Micarta*, Garolite or Bakelite*

CNC Machining G10 Material

G10 FR4 sheet can be CNC machined up to +-.005 tolerance. Jaco offers G10 drilling, milling, and machining services to either cut to size to or machined to your CAD drawings. From 5-axis machining centers to routers, we can quickly and easily cut your G10 FR4 to your exact specifications. Get custom G10 machining services from the premier Ohio plastics fabricator, Jaco Products.

machined g10 material micarta machining part

Unlike machining metal, machining G10 can present challenges due to the highly abrasive glass fillers. Metal machining speeds are typically too high for composites resulting in delamination. Since Jaco, specializes in plastic machining and does not machine any metal components, equipment from machine tools to dust collection, is unique to the specific requirements of machining composites, laminates and glass filled resins.

G10 FR4 Die Cut Parts

Jaco offers die-cutting services of G10 FR4 material. G10 FR4 is a very versatile laminate used as an electrical insulation material in electronics, PCBs, and mechanical lines.

G10 Material Supplier

We sell full sheets pf G10 FR4 through our materials distribution service. We offer varying thicknesses of G10 material, please contact sales department regarding available inventory.

G10 Material Applications

G10 FR4 material applications include:

  • Terminal boards
  • Washers
  • Sleeves
  • Structural components
  • Cryogenic components
  • Wear applications
  • Electrical applications
  • PCBs – Printed circuit boards
  • Power generation
  • G10 knife handles
  • G10 gun handles
  • G10 grip materials

G10 Datasheet / Technical Information

Contact our experienced technical staff for the most up-to-date copy of a G10 FR4 datasheet. Our staff is available to help you specify the right materials for your application and design the parts/components you need to meet your product requirements. Contact our technical staff today to discuss your G10 part design.

* The Micarta trademark is a registered trademark of Industrial Laminates / Norplex, Inc. (dba Norplex-Micarta / Norplex-Micarta Industrial Composites).

* Bakelite or polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride, is an early plastic. It is a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin developed by the Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland in New York in 1907.

October 18, 2016

G10 Machining FAQs

G10, a high-pressure fiberglass laminate renowned for its electrical insulating properties, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance, is indeed a machinable material. Frequently utilized in applications where these characteristics are essential, such as in electrical and electronic components, insulators, and various mechanical parts, G10 can be shaped through machining processes.

When working with G10, it is crucial to consider several factors. Firstly, the choice of cutting tools, including high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide tools, is paramount. Carbide tools are often favored for their durability. Determining optimal cutting speeds and feed rates depends on the specific machining operation, tooling, and the unique characteristics of G10, ensuring the right parameters for achieving the desired finish and efficiency.

While G10 generates less heat compared to certain metals, the use of coolants or lubricants can still be advantageous to dissipate heat and enhance the overall machining process. The selection of tool path and machining strategy, such as climb milling or conventional milling, should be based on the part’s geometry and the desired surface finish.

Machining G10 produces fine dust particles, and proper dust control measures should be implemented to maintain a safe working environment. Additionally, a rigid and stable machining setup is essential to achieve precise cuts and prevent vibration or deflection during the machining process.

Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommendations and conducting test runs to optimize cutting parameters for the specific application will contribute to a successful and efficient machining operation with G10.

In manufacturing, G10 refers to a type of high-pressure fiberglass laminate. It is a composite material made of layers of glass cloth impregnated with an epoxy resin, which is then compressed and heated to create a solid, durable material. G10 is known for its excellent electrical insulating properties, high mechanical strength, and resistance to chemicals and environmental factors.

Key characteristics of G10 in manufacturing include:

  • Electrical Insulation: G10 is an outstanding electrical insulator, making it suitable for various applications in electronics and electrical engineering.
  • Mechanical Strength: G10 exhibits high mechanical strength, providing durability and stability. It can withstand significant mechanical stress and pressure.
  • Chemical Resistance: G10 is resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to corrosive substances is a concern.
  • Dimensional Stability: G10 maintains its dimensional stability under different environmental conditions, contributing to its reliability in precision applications.
  • Machinability: G10 is machinable, allowing it to be cut, shaped, and drilled to create custom components for specific applications.

Common applications of G10 in manufacturing include:

  • Electrical Insulators: G10 is used to manufacture insulating components for electrical equipment and devices.
  • Mechanical Parts: Its high mechanical strength makes G10 suitable for creating durable mechanical components.
  • Aerospace Components: G10 is utilized in the aerospace industry for various components due to its lightweight and high strength.
  • Firearms Grips: G10 is often used for firearm grips because of its durability, stability, and resistance to chemicals.
  • Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs): G10 is used as a substrate material for PCBs due to its electrical insulating properties.

G10 comes in various grades and thicknesses to meet specific requirements for different applications. The material is widely appreciated for its versatility and reliability in diverse manufacturing settings.

G10 is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate material that does not have a direct equivalent in terms of a specific substance. Instead, G10 is a composite material that is unique in its composition and properties. It is composed of layers of glass cloth impregnated with an epoxy resin, which are then compressed and heated to create a solid and durable material.

The distinctive characteristics of G10 include:

1. Electrical Insulation: G10 is an excellent electrical insulator, making it suitable for various applications in electronics and electrical engineering.

2. Mechanical Strength: It exhibits high mechanical strength, providing durability and stability. G10 can withstand significant mechanical stress and pressure.

3. Chemical Resistance: G10 is resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable for use in environments where exposure to corrosive substances is a concern.

4. Dimensional Stability: G10 maintains its dimensional stability under different environmental conditions, contributing to its reliability in precision applications.

5. Machinability: G10 is machinable, allowing it to be cut, shaped, and drilled to create custom components for specific applications.

While there may not be a direct equivalent to G10, other high-pressure fiberglass laminates with similar characteristics and properties may be used in certain applications. It’s essential to consider the specific requirements of the application and choose materials based on their unique properties rather than seeking an exact equivalent to G10.

Published On: July 6th, 2024Categories: News7.1 min read1399 words