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AtlasFibre - Model FR-4 -Flame Retardant Glass Epoxy Laminate
The FR-4 material from Atlas Fibre is a flame retardant glass epoxy laminate, distinguished for its mechanical strength and insulation resistance. Comprising woven fiberglass and a flame-retardant epoxy resin, FR-4 is expertly utilized as an insulator in both dry and humid conditions. Known for its stable mechanical and electrical performance, it serves various applications across industries. FR-4 stands out with its flame retardance, achieved through the inclusion of chemicals that mitigate fire spread. Specifically designed to meet MIL-I-24768/27 standards, FR-4 outperforms its predecessor, G-10, by offering superior resistance to flames. The fabrication process is akin to that of G-10, requiring standard cutting machines but with lower shearing strength and adjusted tool angles. Despite its durability, exposure to ultraviolet light can decrease its structural integrity outdoors, necessitating attention in those conditions. FR-4 is a versatile material available in sheets, rods, and tubes, widely used in aerospace, electric vehicles, and semiconductors.
Atlas Fibre offers FR-4, a glass epoxy laminate that is similar to G-10 with the addition of being flame retardant. FR-4 is known for having good characteristics for fabrication, mechanical strength, and insulation resistance. Learn more about the uses, benefits, and properties of FR-4 material.
FR-4 consists of woven fiberglass and a flame-retardant epoxy resin. It’s often used as an insulator in dry or humid conditions. Because it offers consistently excellent mechanical and electrical performance, it’s considered a generalist material that works for various applications.
The FR in FR-4 stands for “flame retardant,” while the 4 signifies that it’s a glass epoxy.
FR-4’s most notable property is its flame retardance. Flame-retardant materials such as FR-4 are imbued with chemicals that help slow the spread of fire. FR-4 also has excellent electrical properties, making it a good pick for use in circuit boards.
Other notable FR-4 properties include:
- Tensile strength: 65,000 psi
- Compressive strength: 38,000 psi
- Flexural strength – LW -A 0.125″: 60,000 psi
- Bond strength: 2,300 psi 15 MPa
- Shear strength: 21,500 psi 148 MPa
- Hardness, M scale: 115
- Specific gravity: 1.85
- Flammability rating: 94V-0
- Maximum temperature: 140° Celsius (284° Fahrenheit)
- Water absorption — 24 hours: 0.10
- Izod impact strength at 49°C – LW: 14.00
FR-4 offers several benefits, including:
- Flame retardant
- Low moisture absorption
- Radiation, chemical, and thermal shock resistance
- Dimensional stability
- High dielectric, flexural, impact, and tensile strength
Depending on how and where it is used, FR-4 can offer a long life span. When placed inside of equipment or machinery, FR-4 can be a permanent material that doesn’t need replacement. However, ultraviolet light will compromise the substance’s structural integrity and shorten its life considerably, so it will need regular replacement in outdoor applications.
FR-4 is available in sheets, rods, and tubes. It is used across multiple industries and applications, representing an essential element in the following products:
- Printed circuit boards
- Insulators
- Jigs and other fixtures
- Medical diagnosis equipment
- Test boards
- Arc shields
- Screw terminal strips
- Relays
- Switches
- Rocket cases