50 years ago we only used what we called back then, Industrial Formica, used the same 3M epoxy. My dad had used it during ww2 at Defense Plant called Northern Pump in Minneapolis. We used it on Gibs and wear strips on and Boring Machine like Bullard VTL's, Gidding & Lewis and Bliss Punch Presses, etc. Then in the early 70's we started to use Turcite, Also used Nylatron and Nylon (Hardinge lathes). Then in the middle 80's we started to use Rulon and Moglice. I know Nylatron and Phenolic are the Cheapest. Like I said this lathe is 20 years old and I ran great until the Oilers screwed up an the felt wipers were never replaced. The phenolic should last another 20 years or more as they are installing 2 Bijur hand pumps after I leave.
I match fit the saddle today. Should finish tomorrow. I'll ad more photo's later tonight.
They bought the material from Piedmont Plastics in Birmingham. Here is a copy of the quote.
Ln Quantity Unit Part#/Description Unit Price Unit Amount
1 2 EA LE NAT 0.375 30.000 EA 60.00
(SEQ#: 3064) *.375 GD LE NAT PHENOLIC
*Cut to size: 2.500" x 48.000"
2 1 EA LE NAT 0.312 42.000 EA 42.00
(SEQ#: 3064) *.312 GD LE NAT PHENOLIC
*Cut to size: 4.000" x 48.000"
When I get home I'll check Rulon prices, Im not sure they make it that thick. Cody at Moglice told me once the glue on the old phenolic and the put Moglice on the wear side about ..062" When I used to rebuild full time, I believe I bought it from MSC Direct. If you order it from them or a local Plastics company. Order LINEN Grade it has close threads compared to canvas grade.