Nomex
Nomex is a heat-resistant aramid fibre that combines flame retardancy with electrical insulation properties – characteristics that make the material particularly useful in technically advanced applications. At Stans-Service, we have extensive experience in punching and cutting Nomex into customised components, particularly for the electronics industry.
How Nomex works
Nomex is made from aromatic polyamides - a type of aramid fibre that is both heat-resistant and self-extinguishing. Unlike some other flame-retardant materials, Nomex is inherently flame-resistant, which means that the flame-retardant properties are built into the fibre itself and do not disappear with washing, wear or age.
The material does not melt or drip at high temperatures, making it particularly suitable for applications where overheating can occur. At the same time, it acts as a highly efficient electrical insulator, making it a first choice for many of our customers in the electronics industry.
Types of Nomex we process
DuPont manufactures Nomex in several variants tailored to different applications. Here are the most common types we work with:
Nomex 410
The most commonly used type is a calendered aramid paper with high dielectric strength and good mechanical strength. It is used as slot insulation in electric motors and transformers, and as thermal protection in electronic equipment.
Nomex 411
Similar properties to 410 but with a lower density and a more flexible structure. Easier to shape and machine; often the preferred choice when a component needs to be adapted to curved surfaces or confined spaces.
Nomex 464
A laminated variant with enhanced mechanical strength. It combines Nomex paper with a polyester film, Mylar/PET, to achieve higher dielectric strength and better resistance to mechanical wear.
Nomex 418
It has exceptionally high electrical insulation properties and is used in applications involving very high voltages, such as power transformers and generators.
We have Nomex in a range of thicknesses in stock and can order other variants from our suppliers. Contact us if you’re unsure which type is suitable for your application.
Technical data: Nomex 410 (reference values)
| Property | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Material type | Aramid paper (aromatic polyamide) | DuPont™ Nomex® |
| Thicknesses we process | 0.05–0.76 mm | We stock the most common items; others are available to order |
| Maximum temperature, continuous | 220 °C | Class H insulation |
| Short-term temperature | Up to 300 °C | Limited exposure |
| Fire classification | UL94 V-0 | Self-extinguishing, does not drip |
| Dielectric strength | 18–40 kV/mm | Depending on thickness and type |
| Tensile strength (MD) | 70–120 MPa | Depending on the type |
| Density | 0.7–1.1 g/cm³ | Depending on the type and calendering |
| Chemical resistance | Resistant to most solvents | No high-concentration acids or bases |
| Moisture absorption | Low | Approx. 5 % at 65 % RH |
The figures above are approximate and are based on Nomex 410 as a reference. Exact specifications vary depending on the type, thickness and supplier. Please contact us for a data sheet specific to your application.
Thicknesses and formats we process
We punch and cut Nomex components in sizes ranging from approximately 3 × 3 mm up to approximately 0.65 × 1.6 m, depending on thickness and geometry.
Standard thicknesses we stock: 0.05 mm, 0.08 mm, 0.10 mm, 0.13 mm, 0.18 mm, 0.25 mm, 0.38 mm, 0.51 mm and 0.76 mm
Processing methods:
- Punching: for series with the same geometry, this results in low unit costs and high repeatability
- Cutting: for complex shapes, prototypes and small production runs with no tooling costs
- Kiss-cut: for self-adhesive Nomex components supplied on backing sheets, ready for installation
Tolerances: Typically ±0.2–0.5 mm, depending on the size and geometry of the part. We adjust the tolerance specifications as required.
Nomex compared to other materials
We work with a wide range of materials in our production and help our customers find the most cost-effective and technically suitable option for each application. When it comes to materials for thermal and electrical insulation, Nomex is often the best choice, but here's a quick comparison:
- Kevlar: Extremely strong and tear-resistant, but not as effective as an electrical insulator.
- Proban-treated cotton: Cheaper, but loses its flame-retardant properties over time.
- Modacrylic: It has good properties but does not offer the same heat resistance as Nomex.
- Kapton: Excellent for high temperatures, but not quite as dimensionally stable in larger sizes.
For customers looking for a material that combines permanent flame retardancy with high electrical insulating properties, Nomex is in a class of its own.
What standards does Nomex fulfil?
Many of our customers work in regulated industries where certification and performance requirements are high. Nomex is a well-proven and often certified material that fulfils standards such as:
- EN ISO 11612: Protection against heat and flames
- NFPA 2112: Fire safety in industrial environments
- EN 1149: Protection against static electricity
- ASTM F1506: Protection when working near electric arcs
- UL94 V-0: Fire classification for plastics and insulation materials in electronics
UL94 V-0 is particularly important because it means that the material extinguishes itself quickly after being exposed to flame and does not drip burning material. This is a critical property for components in electronics and electrical installations.
If you're not sure what standards apply to your particular application, we're happy to help you find out - and match the right materials accordingly.
See what we can do with Nomex or request a quote
At Stans-Service, we have extensive experience working with Nomex and other technical insulation materials. Whether you need punched gaskets, insulating details or thermally conductive solutions, we will help you produce the right components - quickly, precisely and cost-effectively.
Contact us to discuss your project or get a free quote. We're here to help you every step of the way - from material selection to finished detail.