Wear is negligible when sliding against itself. Graphite may be purchased bonded to steel back-up plates or structural shapes as the job may require. Bonding epoxy is available.The maximum temperature limit on the epoxy is 300°F. Hi-temperature applications require mechanical attachment of the graphite. Unbonded flats are typically 1/2" thick. Bonded 1/4" graphite to 1/4" steel is specified as 25CG 25CS 50L. Typically the steel plate is 1" larger in both width and length than the graphite for field welding.