Best Performance Plastics for Power Generation Applications

Power generation systems operate in demanding environments, with high voltage, heat, vibration, moisture, and chemicals all placing stress on equipment. To keep systems running safely and reliably, engineers and maintenance teams rely on performance plastics that deliver electrical insulation, durability, and long service life.

At Piedmont Plastics, we supply a wide range of plastic materials used across power generation and electrical infrastructure. This article highlights the best plastics for power generation, with a focus on red GPO-3 and other commonly specified materials such as G10 and FR4, phenolic, HDPE, PVC, polypropylene, polycarbonate, nylon, and PEEK.

Why Performance Plastics Are Used in Power Generation

Performance plastics play a critical role in electrical systems where metal alone cannot meet safety and performance needs. These materials help protect equipment from environmental exposure, improve safety, and extend service life in stationary power facilities.

In power generation systems, plastics are valued because they can:

• Electrically insulate high-voltage components

• Resist heat, flame, and electrical arcing

• Reduce weight compared to metal parts

• Withstand moisture, chemicals, and corrosion

The right plastic material helps improve safety, reliability, and long-term system performance.

GPO-3: A Standard for Electrical Insulation

GPO-3 fiberglass laminate is a trusted choice for electrical insulation in power generation applications. Often referred to by the brand name Glastic®, it delivers reliable dielectric protection while maintaining strength and stability under demanding mechanical and high-temperature conditions.

GPO-3 is valued for its flame resistance and arc-resistant properties, making it ideal for high-voltage applications. Its red color also improves visibility, allowing maintenance teams to quickly identify insulated components.

Common GPO-3 applications include:

• Busbar supports and spacers

• Switchgear insulation panels

• Transformer components

• Electrical barriers and standoff parts

• Various channels and profiles

These applications rely on GPO-3 for dependable electrical insulation, mechanical strength, and long-term reliability in demanding environments.

G10 and FR4: High-Strength Glass Epoxy Laminates

G10 and FR4 are glass epoxy laminates widely used in power generation systems where strength, electrical insulation, and flame resistance are critical. Both materials offer excellent dielectric strength, making them ideal for insulating high-voltage components. They also maintain strong mechanical properties under load, which allows them to serve as both structural and insulating components.

In power generation facilities, G10 and FR4 are commonly used for:

• Switchgear insulation panels

• Busbar supports and spacers

• Transformer components

• Terminal boards

• Structural insulating supports

FR4 is often selected for switchgear and control panels where fire safety compliance is critical. G10 may be used in structural insulating components where flame rating is not a primary concern.

Both materials are trusted for their strength, insulation performance, and long-term reliability in demanding electrical environments.

Phenolic: Proven Electrical Insulation for Power Systems

Phenolic laminates have been used in electrical systems for decades. They are known for strong dielectric properties, mechanical stability, and dependable performance in high-load applications.

In power generation environments, phenolic materials are commonly used for:

• Switchgear panels

• Busbar supports

• Terminal boards

• Electrical backer panels

Phenolic offers a cost-effective alternative to higher-end laminates while still delivering reliable insulation and heat resistance. For many substations and control systems, it remains a trusted material choice.

More Material Options for Power Generation Applications

In addition to the materials listed above, a wide range of other plastics can be found in power generation applications. From electrical enclosures to barriers and wear pads, Piedmont Plastics is your one-stop shop for the materials you need to fabricate these versatile components.

Selecting the Right Plastic Material

No single plastic works for every power generation application. The best choice depends on operating temperature, voltage, mechanical stress, environmental exposure, and safety requirements.

Power generation systems require materials that perform reliably over time. Working with an experienced plastics supplier helps ensure the selected material meets both performance expectations and industry standards. Piedmont Plastics offers a broad selection of performance plastics, local inventory, and technical expertise to support your application.

Whether you need GPO-3 for switchgear, HDPE for enclosures, PEEK for high-temperature components, or polycarbonate for safety panels, our team is ready to help!