Flame-retardant PPA components stabilise without corrosion, says BASF
Polyphthalamide (PPA) compounds by BASF now include a variety of flame retardant grades that combine high thermal stability with “excellent electrical insulation” and low water uptake, says the company.
The compounds are characterised by high electrical RTI (relative thermal index) values above 140 degrees C while being halogen-free according to EN 50642. This ensures prevents corrosion and failure of electrical parts when used under moist condition, said BASF.
The non-halogenated PPAs based on PA9T, PA66/6T, PA6T/66 and PA6T/6 are also claimed to allow for long colour stability. These new flame retardant grades can be used in connectors for power or data transmission in vehicles, appliances and consumer electronics as well as for e-mobility parts, miniature circuit breakers, switch gear and sensors.
The product range includes Ultramid One J 60X1 V30, a PA66/6T acquired from Solvay and now available globally to customers from BASF. Together with the PPA Ultramid TKR 4340G6 (PA6T/6), it is claimed to offers the highest electrical RTI value of 160 degrees C and also very easy processability.
The PA9T Ultramid Advanced N3U41G6 shows an electrical RTI of 150 degrees C at low water uptake, which is crucial for surface mount technology processing. Its chemical resistance combined with the stable mechanical performance of all PPAs at elevated temperatures make it especially suitable for electronic applications, added BASF.
Ultramid Advanced T2340G6 is a PA6T/66 with good ‘flowability’ with an electrical RTI of 150 degrees C. According to BASF, it is suitable for wire-to-board and board-to-board connectors.
All the flame retardant materials in the PPA portfolio keep their high mechanical and dielectric strength at elevated temperatures, said BASF. They show very good dimensional stability due to low and slow water uptake as well as a low co-efficient of thermal expansion. They allow for V-0 rating at thicknesses down to less than 0.4mm and meet the cable management standard CMS EN 50654 (2018-05).
