DSM Engineering Plastics has introduced Xantar® C (PC/ABS) for the manufacture
of lighting components. The Xantar® C material is now being used for the
production of end caps for Centura 2, an important new range of luminaires
from Philips.
For the manufacture of the end caps, Philips required a material which would
be completely light tight and prevent any leakage of light through the plastic
itself. The end caps also had to perform within certain defined parameters.
Xantar® C has proved ideal for the purpose because it fulfills all the
aesthetic, safety and sustainability requirements specified by Philips. It
meets the heat performance range of 70 100°C, impact resistance of 5J and has
a glow wire filament index (GWFI) of 960. The plastic also contains a
halogen-free flame retardant and is UV stabilized.
Krzysztof Markiewicz, account manager for DSM Engineering Plastics in Poland.
"We have worked with many leading lighting manufacturers to produce high
quality covers and fitments that are both long-lasting and economically
produced. Our materials are used in a wide range of applications, including
sockets, wall outlets, connectors, lighting and enclosures.”
Xantar® C polycarbonate is suitable for a wide range of applications and can
be converted using all common processing techniques. The product line consists
of general purpose, flame retardant, reinforced and stress crack resistant
modified grades as well as specialty grades developed for specific
applications.
For the manufacturer, Xantar® polycarbonates and other grades can be coloured
to meet any specific brand or design requirement. The colour and processing
consistency, both within batch and batch-to-batch, leads to lower scrap rates
and higher rates of machine use. The base colour is more consistent and stable
than in many other materials. High design-led colour standards can be
maintained during moulding by using masterbatches, reducing inventory and
simplifying logistics.
