The rapid development of high voltage and current applications requires new self-extinguishing plastic materials resistant to operating conditions.
When discussing sustainable generation and electrical energy storage, or even just electric mobility, designers must transport intense currents at low and high voltage. Transferring high current requires large conductors, called busbars, which are also found in busbar trunking systems.
Busbars: Fundamental Elements for High Current Transport
The passage of very high currents involves extremely demanding conditions for the materials on which the conductor bars are mounted. First, the heating of the bars themselves, which brings maximum operating temperatures to the threshold of 100°C. In case of malfunction, however, the metal temperature can easily exceed 400°C.
Then the essential electrical insulation which for obvious reasons must guarantee operational safety in any situation. Fire prevention in the e-mobility sector imposes restrictions on flame behavior and glow wire testing (GWIT according to IEC60695-2 standard).
The Challenges of Busbar Supports
The bars must be held by solid supports that resist mechanical stress and magnetic forces caused by current. For molding reliable supports over time, LATI offers proven historical solutions, all characterized by self-extinguishing UL94 V0 certification.
The polymers used are PA6, PA66 and PBT, made flame-resistant through red phosphorus-based retardant systems, with halogens and reduced environmental impact.
A Success Story in the Electrical Equipment Industry
The French group SOCOMEC, leader in electrical network control and safety, has chosen LATAMID 6 H2 G/30-V0HF1 for the SB C 15 busbar support.
The SB C 15 element is designed for three or four-pole systems, both flat and vertical, with three conductors per pole. Thanks to the LATI material, it can carry currents up to 6,300 amperes continuously and up to 80kA in case of short circuit.The compound is made of PA6 reinforced with 30% glass fiber and is self-extinguishing without halogens or red phosphorus. UL has certified it for continuous use up to 120°C.
Continuous Innovation: Materials for Specific Requirements
For even more demanding mechanical requirements, LATI offers self-extinguishing compounds based on PA66 reinforced with 50% glass fiber, the LATAMID 66 H2 G/50-V0HF1 and V0KB1.
If humidity is a problem, anhydroscopic solutions can be chosen. These solutions are based on PBT LATER, high-temperature grades developed on PPS LARTON or new compounds made with aromatic polyamide LARAMID T.The PA9T polymer has thermal and chemical resistance that allows these components to be used in critical situations. For example, they can be employed in battery charging systems, where there is risk of thermal instability.The evolution of electrical technologies requires advanced plastic materials capable of addressing the challenges of intense currents and extreme operating conditions. The use of fire-resistant materials improves safety and efficiency in electrical energy transport. The e-mobility industry can substantially benefit from these innovations, ensuring greater reliability and sustainability of their systems.
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