| The Vinyl Division of Teknor Apex, USA, has recently launched two new series of Apex� clear flexible vinyl compounds which will provide manufacturers of plugs, grommets, and other injection moulded wiring components for appliances and other electrical devices with the industry's widest selection of grades pre-listed for flame class ratings under UL Subject 94. The Apex� series 6500 and 7500 compounds feature a service temperature rating of 60 and 105� C respectively. Within each series are grades ranging in shore A hardness from 70 to 104 and UL 94 flame ratings from HB to V0 in thicknesses from 0.75 to 3.00mm. All colours used in the new series are approved under the UL-listing. Additional listings for the compounds under UL 94 include zero ratings in tests for hot wire ignition (HWI), high arcing index (HAI), and comparative tracking index (CTI).
In addition, the Vinyl Division of Teknor Apex has launched lead-free versions of its Fireguard� compounds, specially designed for Data and communications plenum cables. The Fireguard� compounds are proprietary vinyl-based products that meet the most stringent low-flame and smoke requirements. Eight grades of the new lead-free series of Fireguard 910 compounds are now available for insulation and jacketing of copper and fibre optic cable, along with all of the standard lead-stabilised Fireguard formulations. The non-lead formulations range in shore C hardness (ten-second reading) from 80 to 85, in elongation from 167 to 235%, and in tensile strength from 2306 to 2879psi. "These new compounds enable our US and international customers to supply the entire US market while complying with the strictest mandates for elimination of lead compounds. Most notably, lead-free Fireguard compounds make it possible for cable manufacturers to meet minimum lead-content requirements of California's Proposition 65", commented Mr Donald G. Ouellette, industry manager. In addition, Teknor Apex supplies a lead-free grade that is also bromine-free: Fireguard 910-LBF, introduced one year ago.
|
