What Is E-Glass Fiberglass?
The electrical grade glass or e-glass was introduced approximately a century ago. It was initially used as a stand-off insulator for electrical wiring due to its stability under constant, high temperatures. Later, it was found to have properties conducive to fiber-forming. This revolutionized its usage, and today, e glass makes up the majority of textile and fiberglass production worldwide.
What Is E-Glass?
E-glass is a high-end synthetic fiber identified as an excellent insulator of electricity. It is rot-proof and remains dimensionally stable despite varying humidity or temperature. It is most commonly used in polymer matrix composites. Aligning straight and continuous fibers parallel to each other helps achieve optimal strength. Laminate structures may be assembled to promote resilience in different directions. Also, woven fabrics are used for manufacturing composite panels as well as other such devices. E-glass is suitable for composite items, electrical insulation, sealing oven doors, protecting cables or pipes, etc.
How Is E-Glass Fiber Made?
E-glass is a low alkali alternative to the soda-lime glass since alkaline oxides are excluded from the structure.
Aimed towards electronic applications, the typical nominal composition includes boron oxide which is added to alumina, lime, magnesia, and silica to obtain the desired fiberglass properties. At around 800°C, the composition is ignited till a viscous consistency is reached. The liquid vitrifies, and at about 1500°C, the impurities start disappearing from the glass. After refining and leaving the furnace, the molten mass achieves perfect transparency. It is then passed through platinum alloy bushing to produce filaments which are eventually gathered, sized, wound, and dried.
What Is So Unique About It?
Unique e-glass properties include:
High stiffness
Low density
Heat resistance
Low cost
Non-combustion properties
Chemical resistance
Moisture resistance
Compatible with organic polymers
Excellent electrical insulation
The e-glass fiber has excellent flexibility and better tensile strength than that of steel. Even at a moderate thickness, electrical insulation combined with mechanical strength makes it ideal for different purposes. The material is also resistant to most chemical agents, oils and solvents.
Looking For a Reliable E-Glass Manufacturer? Contact Us!
At Verretec Composite Materials, we have set the standards for thin, lightweight, and high-strength glass reinforcements. Our cutting-edge technologies enable us to produce tailored and reliable solutions for your specific composite challenges. For more information on e-glass fiber or other composite materials, please speak to our representatives at (724) 543-2333. You can also write in your business enquires – just fill in this contact form, and we will get back to you.