Connector grades "zonder halogenen"

If you’re involved in the molding of “Raster Anschluss Steck Technik” (RAST, roughly translated from German as “pitch connection plug technology”) standard connectors, you’ll be happy to know that you now have access to halogen-free solutions across several resin types from DSM Engineering Plastics (Sittard, the Netherlands).

The product slate now encompasses Arnite T XG510 (PBT) and Stanyl ForTii (PA4T) F11 for SMT applications, as well as the latest addition—Akulon (PA6) K225-KV. Yannick Chardebas, segment manager E&E for DEP, says, “The development of this portfolio demonstrates our strong commitment to our OEM and Tier One customers in the white goods industry. At the same time, it also opens the path towards halogen-free electronics outside the traditional ICT [information and communication technologies] industry.”

The materials are designed for connectors in unattended appliances, meeting the requirements specified by the VDE’s IEC 60335-1 standard. In addition, V-2-rated Akulon K225-KV reportedly possesses excellent hinge properties.

For its part, Arnite T XG510 is the first unfilled PBT that has tested positively, according to the GWFI (Glow Wire Flammability Index) and GWIT (Glow Wire Ignitability Test) on end products. The lower density of halogen-free PBT, compared with halogen-containing PBTs, saves material, cost, and weight. Moreover, PBT has a better dimensional stability compared to polyamides.

Finally, Stanyl ForTii debuted in 2007 as an entirely new high-performance polymer family offering a unique balance of properties. The F11 grade has received VDE Approval for electrical insulating materials. —[email protected]