Homebrew PCBs

Leon Heller wrote:
> On 14/05/2010 09:42, Eddie Stassen wrote:
>   
>> I use standard FR4 0.8 or 1.6mm s/s and d/s. I tend to apply a lot of
>> pressure and make 3 or 4 passes so I am through the copper and well into
>> the board. On the other side a bit less is needed, juts make sure you
>> are through the copper if double sided and have a decent scratch in the
>> board. I know thats not very scientific description, but you get a
>> 'feel' for it after a few boards
>>
>> I am not sure how well this works for other PCB types. I have some old
>> phenolic board and will give it a try.
>>     
>
>
> That's what I do, as well. I put it in a vice to snap it, and I get 
> quite a clean break. It only needs a bit of cleaning up with a file. 
> It's tough stuff, though. I don't use FR4 very often, FEC-1 is *much* 
> easier to cut.
>
> Phenolic is easier.
>
> Leon
>   
Pardon my ignorance, but what is FEC-1?

I suspect phenolic, although soft,  may have problems with 
cracking/chipping.