Flame retardancy of polymers

Lati has recently developed a special version of thermally conductive compounds based on PA6, the LATICONTHER 62 CEG/500-V0HF1 that combines thermal conductivity with excellent performance in terms of self-extinction. With its wide fire resistance UL certification (V0 at 1.5 mm, GWFI 960°C, and 775°C GWFI at 1 mm), this grade also stands out for the halogen-free formulation, thus making this solution even more attractive.

Projects undertaken with this grade include the electronics box developed by SAPLAST, which from the beginning based the design of this product on thermally conductive compounds. The case consists of two sturdy shells intended to hold electronic devices, among which also power transistors. In the circuit design, these devices were placed along one side of the lid, and, once in operation, they all together generate a fair amount of heat that has to be removed to ensure proper operation and longevity of the circuit. Cooling is achieved in this case right through the support wall, which is provided with a large finning ensuring proper heat exchange surface.

The selected material is LATICONTHER 62 CEG/500-V0HF1, and the thermal conductivity of the compound proved widely sufficient to meet the project needs. The device was successfully subjected to a long testing process, especially focused on the thermal behavior of the case: the used LATICONTHER, featuring a thermal conductivity value nearly ten times that of conventional reinforced polymers, largely passed the test.

Lati’s family of thermally conductive compounds now offers a wide range of electrically conductive or insulating options, able to transfer heat next as efficiently as metals, while maintaining typical advantages of injection molding: ease of use, adaptability to project requirements, and overall process cost-efficiency resulting in obvious commercial advantages of the finished product. Source: Specialchem

Filed under: Innovation |