HEXPOL TPE has developed new materials for cable sheathing applications. The compounds are designed to meet the highest levels of durability, performance and human safety.
Number of Customizable Properties
The range, which is marketed under the brand DRYFLEX® CABLE, includes grades based on different polymer chemistries, including EVA, TPE and TPV technologies. This brings one of the widest ranges of properties and customization possibilities to the market and gives cable manufacturers the flexibility to select the best solution for their application.
Flame Retardancy and Low Toxicity
The Dryflex Cable range includes Low Smoke Halogen Free (LSHF) or Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) flame retardant compounds. They are designed to offer enhanced flame-retardant properties with low smoke and low toxicity. The compounds are RoHS, SVHC and REACH compliant and halogen-free according to IEC 60754 Part 1/2.
Speaking of the development, Mark Clayton, managing director at HEXPOL TPE’s UK site, commented “
The challenge we set ourselves was to develop materials that exceed global standards for reliability and durability, combined with the lowest toxicity and smoke levels for human safety. With our new grades we offer market leading performance with high levels of customization and easy processing”.
One example compound for low voltage power or data cable applications is Dryflex Cable 52180 N. While Dryflex Cable 51898 N was developed for demanding applications requiring increased thermal and fluid resistance.
No Post Vulcanization Required
The Dryflex Cable compounds, as with PVC, can be processed using standard extrusion equipment. Compounds are available ready to use, with no post vulcanization required, helping to minimize steps and improve productivity. The compounds are fully recyclable and any production waste can be reprocessed.
Key Features
- LSZH Low Smoke Zero Halogen / LSHF Low Smoke Halogen Free
- RoHS, SVHC and REACH compliant
- Superior ageing performance
- Easy processing, with no post vulcanization required
- Designed to meet various cable standards, such as BS 7655 LTS 3
- Typical LOI values between 28 and 42 percent
Applications of Cable Compounds
Dryflex Cable compounds provide added security in areas of high human occupancy, where people need to be evacuated quickly and safely. They can also be used in restricted areas containing expensive or sensitive equipment. These could include high-rise buildings, hospitals, airport, train and transport hubs, communication exchanges, data centers, shopping centers, power generation facilities and offshore platforms.
They offer excellent thermomechanical properties making them suitable for both telecommunication and electric cables. Typical applications include low voltage, data, insulation, jacketing and bedding.
Source: HEXPOL TPE