Clariant has released a new series of masterbatches for the production of a new generation of FAKRA high-speed data connectors. The series is divided into 14 standard colors and was developed by Clariant in cooperation with major global polymer manufacturers.
This thick color masterbatch has received a UL yellow card, which can be adjusted according to requirements and is available globally. In high-temperature engineering plastics, it helps ensure performance and color stability, such as polyamide (PA) 66, poly terephthalate Butyl formate (PBT) and polyaniline amide (PPA), and high-temperature engineering plastics can be used to make FAKRA connectors.
New applications in FAKRA connectors are expected to appear in 2021 models, facing a series of challenges. The connector is color-coded and needs to faithfully reproduce standard tones. They must be strong, leak-proof, and non-flammable. Furthermore, not only the thermal stresses of lead-free hot air reflow soldering during the injection molding and assembly process, but also the long-term mechanical and weathering stresses from under the hood, under the body, or outdoor automotive applications.
Clariant Department Head Peter Dufour said: "Clariant is one of the few companies that can provide a complete masterbatch solution. When these new masterbatches are mixed with natural resin, the materials produced are not only in color, mechanical properties and melt It meets the FAKRA standard in terms of flow and does not require the use of halogens or high concerns to meet UL94 flame retardant requirements, whether it is UL94 HB or V-0. "
Dufour said: "The color resin market that meets FAKRA requirements is changing. Connector manufacturers seek reliable and stable color supply, but the number is relatively small. Clariant's masterbatch can be used to manufacture 'natural + masterbatch' color in large quantities. Stable resin mixture, suitable for various high-temperature engineering polymers, with 14 FAKRA standard colors available. "
The FAKRA connector is named after the German automotive industry group that developed the standard, provides 6 GHz of bandwidth, handles 5G cellular / data traffic, and supports next-generation automotive monitoring, diagnostics, security, performance, navigation, and entertainment systems. FAKRA's plug / jack combination is divided into 14 specifications, and each combination is configured with a specific color, function, and coding to prevent incorrect connection. The connectors are made of high temperature resin (HTR) because at a peak temperature of 260 ° C, their coaxial circuits are usually connected to a printed circuit board (PCB) using lead-free reflow soldering.