Nomex
Nomex is a heat-resistant aramid fibre which combines flame retardancy with electrical insulating properties - characteristics that make it particularly useful in technically advanced applications. On the Punching service we have extensive experience in punching and cutting Nomex to customised components, In this guide, we explain what makes Nomex to be such a reliable choice and how we help our customers make the most of the material's potential.
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.
Applications - When is Nomex the right choice?
At Stans-Service, we regularly produce Nomex components for customers in the OEM segment - companies that develop and manufacture end products with high thermal management and electrical insulation requirements. Nomex is used in several different types of contexts, and here are some where it really excels:
Emergency services
In the emergency services, Nomex is often used in protective clothing for firefighters, thanks to its high temperature resistance and self-extinguishing properties. Although we do not supply directly to this type of end-user, we manufacture components used in thermal and insulation solutions for technical equipment in harsh environments.
Electrical and industrial environments
In industrial environments, especially in electronics, power supply and battery technology, Nomex is a common choice for gaskets, insulation parts and protective layers between components. We help our customers to punch precise shapes in Nomex.
For customers working with, for example, printed circuit boards, drive systems or energy modules, Nomex is an excellent solution for managing both thermal and electrical insulation - and we can customise every detail according to your drawing or CAD model.
Aircraft and vehicle manufacturing
In aerospace and advanced automotive production, Nomex is used in everything from interior panels to thermal protection in battery systems. We have supplied precision stamped Nomex parts to customers manufacturing components for both traditional vehicles and electrically powered solutions.
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 electrical insulator.
- Proban-treated cotton: Cheaper but loses flame retardancy over time.
- Modacrylic: Has good properties but does not reach the same temperature resistance as Nomex.
- Kapton: Excellent for high temperature, but not as dimensionally stable in larger formats.
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 flame
-
NFPA 2112 - Fire protection 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 insulating 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.