Welcome to Learning about FR4 Epoxy Fibreglass Tube
The FR4 epoxy fibreglass tube has excellent mechanical strength and insulation resistance. It is often used as an insulator in dry or humid conditions. FR-4 is a glass epoxy material that is similar to G-10, but it is also flame retardant.
“Flame retardant” is what the FR in FR-4 stands for, and the 4 specifies that it is a glass epoxy.
What is the Difference Between G10 and FR4?
G10 and FR-4 are both high-strength glass-reinforced epoxy materials with nearly identical electrical and mechanical properties. The fundamental difference is that FR-4 is a flame-retardant grade (meeting UL94V-0 standards) containing bromine, while G10 is not. FR-4 is typically used for circuit boards and electronics, while G10 is preferred for structural or high-temperature, non-electric applications.
Advantage
FR-4 can have a long service life, depending on how and where it is used. FR-4 can be a permanent material that doesn’t need to be replaced when installed inside machinery or equipment. Ultraviolet light, however, will weaken the material’s structural integrity and significantly reduce its lifespan, necessitating frequent replacement in outdoor applications.
The FR4 epoxy fibreglass tube has several benefits, including:
- Flame retardant
- High dielectric, flexural, impact, and tensile strength
- Radiation, chemical, and thermal shock resistance
- Low moisture absorption
- Dimensional stability
Application
Because the FR4 epoxy fibreglass tube offers consistently excellent mechanical and electrical performance, it is considered a general-purpose material suitable for a variety of applications. It can be used for bolt protection, insulators, chemicals, the military, medicine, and electricity.
Typical Properties of FR4
| Properties | Test Methods | Unit | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D792 | g/cm³ | 2 |
| Water Absorption, 24 hrs | ASTM D570 | % | 0.1 |
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D638 | psi | 66000 |
| Compressive Strength | ASTM D695 | psi | 38000 |
| Hardness | ASTM D785 | Rockwell | M115 |
| Coefficient of Linear Thermal Expansion | ASTM D696 | x 10-5 in./in./°F | 1 |
| Max Operating Temp | °C | 130 |




