Lanxess embraces "Dutch orange" for High Voltage Applications
One of the key factors for New Mobility is the electrified powertrain which contains HV components together with an HV battery and charging system, to enable acceptable charging times. In order to guarantee safe handling of the components in the main charging path of the battery, orange coloring is prescribed as a safety and distinguishing feature. The HV parts must remain clearly identifiable for years which is important for rescue teams in the event of an accident as well as for mantenance work.
Multiple solutions for orange applications
Market requirements for orange colored components are currently increasing. RAL 2010 is still accepted by the market, but the demand for a brilliant orange color respectively RAL 2003 is significantly increasing. Therefore, Lanxess offers several orange color solutions for HV components. The Durethan and Pocan grades are available in the following colors:
- Brilliant Orange - RAL 2003 (Lanxess color code 200849)
- Standard Orange - RAL 2010 (Lanxess color code 201194)
- On demand in further orange colors
- Natural color for self-coloring
Broad portfolio of orange Durethan and Pocan materials
Color stability during lifetime
Additionally to an accurate color tone, the color stability during lifetime becomes more and more important. This requirement is important to ensure a clear identification of HV components also after years. With regards to these requirements, the color stabilization becomes more and more important.
The following illustration shows the color stability under heat of Durethan BKV30FN04 200849 with improved color stability compared to a reference without improved color stability. The orange colored Lanxess materials exhibit no discoloration or bleeding under typical processing requirements. In addition, they show a sufficient color stability at 130°C over a period of 1,000 hours respectively 42 days (d).
Durethan BKV30FN04 200849 with improved color stability:
Reference without improved color stability:
Further requirements
Further essential characteristics for orange colored high voltage applications can be determines by the selection of the specific PA6, PA66 or PBT compound. For demanding applications in the field of New Mobility and Electro/Electronics, we have developed materials with various characteristics:
- Retardancy (UL94)
- CTI A 600 V or PLC 0
- High dielectric strength
- Halide-free heat stabilization for the prevention or electrochemical corrosion
- Laser markability in white and black
- Excellent processability
UL Yellow Cards with all color listings
The flame retardant compounds especially developed for HV applications are halogen-free and free from red phosphorous. Self-coloring of natural grades by using masterbatches is possible, but then the UL Yellow Card for the natural grade is not valid after self-coloring.
A UL Yellow Card will be provided for each orange grade listed in the table below:
Source: https://new-mobility.lanxess.com