Physical strength, resiliency, ease and versatility of fabrication, and excellent electrical properties make Phenolic Laminates useful as support components in a wide range of mechanical and electrical applications. Phenolic Laminates are strong, stiff, and have high impact and compressive strengths. And they do not soften upon re-heating, so they are easy to saw, drill, tap, and machine with ordinary tools.

Fine weave cotton cloth fabrics are mixed with phenolic resins to provide better machinability than provided by the Canvas grades. The Linen-based grades also have higher density and good moisture resistance. NEMA L, & LE phenolics are used for fine tooth gears, relay bases, radio parts, terminal bases and strips, often in high-humidity environments.