Insulam

Densified, Resin-Impregnated Wood

C-K's principal tradename for this material is "Insulam". This unique material combines the dielectric properties and stability of thermosetting resins with the strength and toughness of wood fibers. The result is essentially wood-reinforced plastic.

The manufacturing process begins with select thin veneer-usually beech from Europe where the wood is of the finest and most consistent quality. After being cut to size each individual piece of veneer is impregnated with phenolic resin in a vacuum autoclave. Following impregnation, the pieces of veneer are baked in an oven to achieve a "B-stage" (partially cured) condition. The next step is to arrange and to stack the veneers to the desired configuration and thickness. Lamination, densification and complete curing are accomplished simultaneously in massive presses under high pressure (up to 2,000 psi) and temperature (up to 350 degrees F).

Insulam offers high mechanical strength, high dielectric strength and dimensional stability. It is usually significantly less expensive than NEMA-grade glass laminates - and stiffer than other phenolic laminates. The veneer grain of Insulam can be arranged to put the greatest strength where it is needed. The product is easily machined and can be used in cryogenic applications. Insulam components are widely used in power equipment.

Specialty versions include a non-impregnated product (Permawood) used primarily for structural components in oil-cooled transformers, an ultra high-density and high-strength version (Hydulignum) and a boron-impregnated version for neutron shielding.

C-K has a well equipped machine shop, and the company's main business in Insulam is selling finished parts and components in contrast to panels or boards. Some examples are shown on this page. C-K has designed and built many large trussed structures of Insulam; the Company's capabilities in composite structures are discussed elsewhere on this web site.

C-K can also perform special projects in complex layup and gluing of wood boards and veneer, such as the manufacturing of blanks for large wind tunnel fan blades.

Additional technical information available >>

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Products > Insulam Insulam Densified, Resin-Impregnated Wood C-K's principal tradename for this material is "Insulam". This unique material combines the dielectric properties and stability of thermosetting resins with the strength and toughness of wood fibers. The result is essentially wood-reinforced plastic. The manufacturing process begins with select thin veneer-usually beech from Europe where the wood is of the finest and most consistent quality. After being cut to size each individual piece of veneer is impregnated with phenolic resin in a vacuum autoclave. Following impregnation, the pieces of veneer are baked in an oven to achieve a "B-stage" (partially cured) condition. The next step is to arrange and to stack the veneers to the desired configuration and thickness. Lamination, densification and complete curing are accomplished simultaneously in massive presses under high pressure (up to 2,000 psi) and temperature (up to 350 degrees F). Insulam offers high mechanical strength, high dielectric strength and dimensional stability. It is usually significantly less expensive than NEMA-grade glass laminates - and stiffer than other phenolic laminates. The veneer grain of Insulam can be arranged to put the greatest strength where it is needed. The product is easily machined and can be used in cryogenic applications. Insulam components are widely used in power equipment. Specialty versions include a non-impregnated product (Permawood) used primarily for structural components in oil-cooled transformers, an ultra high-density and high-strength version (Hydulignum) and a boron-impregnated version for neutron shielding. C-K has a well equipped machine shop, and the company's main business in Insulam is selling finished parts and components in contrast to panels or boards. Some examples are shown on this page. C-K has designed and built many large trussed structures of Insulam; the Company's capabilities in composite structures are discussed elsewhere on this web site. C-K can also perform special projects in complex layup and gluing of wood boards and veneer, such as the manufacturing of blanks for large wind tunnel fan blades. Additional technical information available >>

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