Machining HM 2472 R

Hard laminates (HM) or glass-mat reinforced polyester resin laminates (UP GM) belong to the large family of thermoset industrial laminates: glass-fibre mats are impregnated with unsaturated polyester resin (UP) and pressed under heat and pressure into sheets, rods or tubes. HM 2472 R (UP GM 205) is the "R" grade of HM 2472 (UP GM 204), with an identical temperature limit class of 155 °C. No separate, publicly available numerical data sheet exists for this grade; the stated values are therefore based on the related grade HM 2472 (UP GM 204) and serve as an aid to material selection, not as a legally binding warranty. Unlike thermoplastics, the cured thermoset does not melt but remains dimensionally stable, hard and mechanically resilient; the colour is typically white.

HM 2472 R machines well – sawing, milling, drilling and turning produce clean, dimensionally accurate results with sharp, carbide-tipped tools, and we allow for the increased tool wear caused by the glass-fibre mat. During machining we ensure adequate dust extraction, since glass-fibre/resin dust is generated. As a thermoset it cannot be reshaped or welded – only machining is possible. This allows us to reliably manufacture mechanically and electrically resilient insulating and structural parts, from single items to series production.

HM 2472 R is worthwhile whenever a mechanically and electrically high-performance insulating and structural material with an elevated temperature limit is needed – for example:

• Insulating and partition parts in electrical engineering and switchgear construction
• Components requiring flame-retardant behaviour (UL 94 V-0)
• Mechanically highly stressed structural parts in mechanical and plant engineering
• Jig and fixture components
• Applications requiring a temperature limit of up to 155 °C

HM 2472 R is an engineering laminate; the price depends on sheet thickness or rod diameter, dimensions, material utilisation (offcuts), machining effort and lot size. If you do not strictly need the 155 °C temperature limit or the UL 94 V-0 flame retardancy, the base grade HM 2472 is often the more economical choice. We are happy to quote binding prices on request based on your drawing.

Equally important are the limits of the material:

• Direct food contact – HM 2472 R is not declared for this
• Applications that require a documented, manufacturer-confirmed additional property of the "R" grade – no separate numerical data sheet is available for this
• Continuous use above approx. 155 °C (thermal class F)
• Reshaping or welding – not possible as a thermoset (machining only)
• Applications requiring a transparent or coloured finish – the grade is white

An honest assessment – and how the disadvantages can be viewed in practice: Advantages:

Disadvantages:

Practical tip: HM 2472 R is the right choice for mechanically and electrically resilient insulating and structural parts with an elevated temperature limit of up to 155 °C. Since no separate numerical data sheet is available for the "R" grade, we recommend consultation on the specific requirements for particularly critical applications; if the base grade is sufficient, HM 2472 is often the more economical choice.

• High temperature limit of 155 °C (thermal class F)
• Very good mechanical and electrical properties (manufacturer information)
• Flame-retardant (UL 94 V-0)
• Thermoset, dimensionally stable
• Good machinability
• No separate, publicly available numerical data sheet for this grade
• Not declared suitable for direct food contact
• Glass-fibre reinforcement increases tool wear during machining
• Only available in white