New polyamide grade meets stringent new fire protection standard

A new grade of polyamide 12 (PA 12) from Germany’s Evonik meets the stringent EN 45545 fire protection standard for rail vehicles. Vestamid LX9115 is flame retardant and is distinguished by low toxicity and smoke density. 

Recently-passed fire protection standard stipulates stringent requirements for fire safety.

Beginning in April 2016, more stringent requirements have been defined in the new EN 45545 fire protection standard to improve the overall safety of the equipment against the fire behavior of materials and components used in rail vehicles. In order to meet the tough EN 45545 standard, Evonik’s Resource Efficiency Segment has developed a new Vestamid molding compound based on PA 12 that is flame retardant and meets the required values for toxicity and smoke density. 

Besides fulfilling the fire behavior properties, Vestamid LX9115 reportedly possesses excellent resistance against dynamic stress and impact, even in the lower temperature range. The new black colored compound opens up new design possibilities for cables and cable conduits applied in sensitive interior as well as exterior applications; the coloration does not affect the fire protection properties. In addition to rail applications, Vestamid LX9115 may be used in any other areas requiring a high degree of fire protection.