Densified Laminated Wood

C-K’s trade name for this material is Insulam™. This unique material combines the dielectric properties and stability of thermosetting phenolic resin with the strength and toughness of wood fibers. The result is essentially wood-reinforced plastic which is a very good dielectric which exhibits excellent mechanical properties.
The manufacturing process begins with select European beech (fagus sylvatica)
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 specially designed presses.