Arnite® T-XG 510 PBT Halogen Free (HF) PBT grade has received VDE Approval for electrical insulating materials. This new grade, produced by DSM Engineering Plastics is particularly suited for components like connectors in white goods applications, such as washing machines, dryers and dishwashers.

Arnite T-XG 510 is revolutionary because it is the first unfilled PBT which has tested positively according to GWFI & GWIT on end products. The new grade fully matches the requirements for these applications and at the same time, it has a lower environmental impact compared to other solutions. It uses a flame retardant system that is free of halogen and red phosphorus. The lower density of HF PBT, compared with halogen containing materials, saves material, cost and weight. This results in safe and high quality end products and contributes to a better environment. Moreover, PBT has a better dimensional stability compared to other moisture absorbing materials.

Halogen-free Arnite XG was tested by VDE for various temperature ranges, material thicknesses, and colors, before receiving official approval and certification. Key is that the material needs to meet the IEC 60335-1 standard that specifies the requirements for unattended household appliances operating under high currents (>0.2A). The requirements include a GWFI at 850°C (IEC 60695-2-12) and a glow wire test at 750°C on end products (IEC 60695-2-11 GWIT).

The development of HF Arnite T-XG 510 not only meets customer requirements, it is in line with DSM’s sustainability policy (People, Planet, Profit). In this DSM states that the company sets out to use energy and raw materials efficiently in order to reduce the environmental impact of its activities and to improve the eco-efficiency of its products and processes on an ongoing basis.

Franck Lagoutte, Product Manager Arnite at DSM Engineering Plastics, says: “This strong focus on eco-efficiency and sustainability is present throughout the entire innovation cycle of the company. Our key new products, innovations and developments follow these corporate principles. Arnite XG in particular will allow our customers to grow in their own markets while promoting a “GREEN” image.

Flame-retardants
Flame-retardants are needed in certain plastics to meet fire safety specifications in the electronics industry. Certain halogenated compounds (a subset of which are brominated flame retardants, or BFRs) are commonly used as flame retardants. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is used for many cables and wires with Chlorine acting as an efficient flame retardant.

BFRs and PVC are non critical in daily use by the end customer and show very effective FR-activity and have the best performance/safety balance. However, the inappropriate incineration in the life cycle of electronics equipment, specifically at temperatures below 800°C has led to a growing concern that these materials may have risks to health or the environment.

In line with the precautionary principles, a growing number of Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEMs) has announced to avoid the use of BFRs and PVC by switching to plastics which use non halogens as flame retardants and by using green design strategies (e.g. following the IEC62368 norm) that avoid the need of flame retarded plastics at all.

Although the key focus is on Green Products, DSM Engineering Plastics will continue to fully support existing customers who require halogenated plastics for existing designs and applications with different halogen-free time schedules.