An overview of S.A.E felts. 

100% wool felt is divided into two broad classifications— SAE felt and technical felt. (Click here for more information on technical felt.) SAE felt is available in rolls or sheets.

Engineers and designers specify felt for numerous and various reasons and applications including vibration absorption, noise reduction, bearing strength, sealing, wicking or fluid transmission, lubrication, roller bearings, filters, heat barriers, bumpers, components, liners, retainers, shock absorbers, weather seals, dust shields, anti-squeaking, insulation, padding, plugs, packing, polishing (glass, stone, jewelry, fiberglass metals, plastics, etc.), furniture rubbing and staining, burnishing, pen nibs, lamp bases, legging, sleeves, and countless others.


Note:  the following information is intended to as a basic introduction to the S.A.E. pressed felt grades with some suggested uses.  For detailed technical specifications, please consult the information accessible from the cascade on the main navigation menu or by clicking on the S.A.E. identifiers below.  And always remember that Southeastern Felt & Supply can provide additional information and practical experience applications once we are familiar with your specific situation.

S.A.E. F-1 is a white, hard-density felt. It is suitable for oil retention where the felt is not compressed, for feeding low viscosity or light oil, and where unusual strength and hardness are required. Typical uses include washers, bushings wicks, door bumpers, polishing blocks, and parts where wear resistance to abrasion are required. This product is priced per linear foot.

S.A.E. F-2 and F-3 are high-grade felts of slightly less density and durability than SAE F-1. These grades are recommended for vibration mountings and the same general purposes as F-1 but where a felt of slightly lower quality is adequate.

S.A.E. F-5, F-6 and F-7 are high-to-medium grade felts recommended for precision uses where resiliency and durability are important factors. SAE F-7 can be used in applications similar to those for F-5, but where slightly less durable material is permissible. These felts are commonly used for grease retainers, spacer strip seals, weather stripping, dust shields, and noise reduction linings.

S.A.E. F-10 and F-11 are high-grade, medium-to-low density felts, similar in quality to F-5, but recommended for uses where abrasion and wear are not important factors. These felts are often used for grease and oil retention (where the felt is confined and compressed in assembly), dust shields operating under less severe conditions, as well as for plug filters for gas and air.

S.A.E. F-13 and F-15 are low density felts with a wide range of uses where resistance to abrasion, durability, and wear are not important factors. Typical uses include: sound deadening; chassis strips; spacers; dust shields; pedal pads; dash liners; fuel oil filters; anti-rattle applications; grease and oil retention.

S.A.E. F-26 is suitable for packing and padding when held in place between other materials. This grade should not be used for mechanical purposes.

S.A.E. F-50 is a high-grade, high-density felt similar to SAE F-1, but produced in thicknesses below 1/8". This felt is recommended for mechanical applications where an accurate, thin, smooth, high-grade felt is required. Typical uses include ball and roller bearing oil-retaining washers and small, dust-excluding washers.

S.A.E. F-51 is a high-grade, high-density felt similar to F-3, but produced in thicknesses below 1/8". It is recommended for the same general uses as F-50, but in installations where tolerances and length of life are not as important. It is typically found in thin cut parts such as gaskets and liners.

S.A.E. F-55 is a medium-to-low density felt similar to SAE F-7, but made in thicknesses below 1/8". This felt is recommended for uses where high durability is not required, such as anti-squeak strips and sound deadening when glued or cemented to fiber board or metal panels.