Customer Challenge
Flame retardant plastics are commonly used within electronics as a failsafe in the event of a fire. These materials are not flameproof but rather self-extinguishing once the flame source is removed thus preventing fire propagation. There are several standards which exist to certify a material as being flame retardant with the UL94 vertical burning test being the predominant standard within the electronics manufacturing sector. Industries which heavily rely on flame retardant materials as part of their design include batteries for electric vehicles and LED lighting. For the customer, the challenge was to find a cost-effective potting product with a UL94 V-0 rating for potting transformers within LED drivers. They needed a material with a flowable viscosity that could be dispensed using automated equipment.
Key Customer Requirements
- UL94 V-0 rated
- Can withstand temperatures up to 100°C
- Material can be dispensed using automated equipment
Solution
MG Chemicals 834HTC is a 2-part epoxy potting compound that cures to a rigid finish. It has high thermal conductivity and a UL94 V-0 rating. Further, the material uses non-abrasive fillers making it a highly suitable option within custom dispensing equipment. Working with a third-party company that specializes in dispensing equipment, an optimal solution was found that eliminated air entrapment during mixing thus maintaining performance within the cured system.
Conclusion
Modern light fixture designs like LED drivers require flame retardant plastics to prevent runaway fire. A simple solution is to pot the drivers in a flame retardant resin like our 834HTC epoxy which is UL94 V-0 approved and can be dispensed using specialty equipment for easy scale-up.
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