GPO-3 means what?

[mingmongmang]

Hi I have a general question aout NEMA GPO-3. Is this just a general spec. for flame retardency, track resistance etc or does 'GPO-3' specify certain materials to be used? Eg. I know it's glass/polyester but is that written into the spec or could otyher plastics be used?

I guess i'm just trying to get an idea of the scope of what 'GPO-3' means.

Thanks.

 

[MintJulep]

If you need to know what's in the spec, get the spec.

http://www.nema.org/Standards/Pages/Industrial-Laminated-Thermosetting-Products.aspx

 

[ScottyUK]

The MIL-I-24768 standard pretty much mirrors the NEMA standard, although GPO-3 is designated GPO N-3 by the military. The materials are defined for GPO-3 grade: that is to say that the GPO series of materials are all glass mat / polyester resin based. If, for example, you wanted a material using glass fabric and epoxy resin base then it would have a GEB or GEE designation, not a GPO designation.

 

[mingmongmang]

ScottyUK: Thanks for the help. I appreciate the input.

 

[rb1957]

"Is this just a general spec. for flame retardency, track resistance etc or does 'GPO-3' specify certain materials to be used?"

FWIW GPO-3 is IMHO a specific material, conforming to a MIL SPEC.

The MIL SPEC is available (for free) at everyspec.com.

 

[mcgyvr]

GPO-3 is a specific material.. A red in color "electrical grade fiberglass" available in sheet/tube/rod/angles/uchannels.
UL94V-0 flammability.
Great stuff... Available from MANY vendors as well as just places like mcmaster.com,etc...

Combining good electrical insulation with arc resistance and high strength, GPO3 fiberglass is a good choice for use in electrical applications. Made of fiberglass-reinforced polyester, this material is also known as polyester-grade industrial laminate. Meets UL 94V0 for flame retardance, except tubes, rods, and 1/32" thick sheets do not.