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The Benefits & Applications of Vulcanized Fibre

What Is Vulcanized Fibre?

Vulcanized fibre is a low-pressure laminated plastic compound composed purely of cellulose. It is highly regarded for its exceptional physical, mechanical, and electrical properties.

Vulcanized fibre is one of the earliest forms of manufactured plastics, with origins dating back to the late 19th century. It is produced by the chemical reactions between wood or cotton fibres and various acids and bases. The reaction produces a slurry which is heated, pressed, and laminated to create the desired thickness.

The various beneficial properties of vulcanized fibre have made it a popular choice for numerous applications in the modern railroad, textile, welding, and sporting industries to name a few.

Key Benefits of Vulcanized Fibre

Vulcanized fibre has a highly desirable strength to weight ratio, with yield strengths exceeding most thermoplastics while possessing densities lower than aluminum. In sufficiently thin thicknesses, vulcanized fibre has a high degree of flexibility, allowing it to conform to a variety of complex shapes and curvatures. This material is also well-known for its dielectric properties, which are highly utilized in the electrical industry.

Vulcanized fibre can also be easily machined without developing splinters, rips, or cracks. Other beneficial features include:

  • Cost efficiency
  • Arc resistance
  • Excellent impact and abrasion resistance
  • Exceptional formability
  • High ductility
  • Chemically resistant and impervious to alcohol, ammonia, benzene, and most hydrocarbon-based solutions
  • L. 94HB flammability rating

Vulcanized Fibre Applications

The exceptional properties of vulcanized fibre lend themselves to a multitude of industrial applications. This material is especially valuable where an appropriate balance between strength, weight, and cost is required.

Although its usage was limited during the early years, advancements in material technology have greatly expanded the scope of vulcanized fibre applications. Some of the most common industrial uses of this material include:

  • Automotive components
  • Washers, gaskets, and custom tags
  • Electrical insulation
  • Furniture manufacturing
  • Farming tools
  • Aerospace and defense parts and components
  • Plumbing and marine components
  • Farming and agriculture

Vulcanized fibre is one of the most versatile materials available. At New Process Fibre, our technical experts will assess your application to determine the best material for you, whether it be vulcanized fibre or otherwise.

To learn more about our fibre manufacturing capabilities and solutions, contact our technical team today.

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