Tepex continuous fiber reinforced thermoplastic composite material is characterized by its inherent high flame retardant properties. One reason is their high fiber content. Therefore, they have passed many flammability tests required for typical applications without fire protection.
Fire resistance test on model carrier: The black carrier profile is made of one of the new Tepex grades, and its rib structure is orange halogen-free flame-retardant polyamide. The flame will not spread, but will go out when the burner is removed-whether the carrier is burning on the surface or on the edge.
However, for certain applications (such as the enclosure of a control cabinet or the high-voltage battery assembly of an electric vehicle), the V-0 classification in the UL 94 flammability test of the American testing agency is usually mandatory. For such situations, LANXESS has developed three new halogen-free flame-retardant Tepex variants with a polyamide 6 matrix.
The relevant person explained: "These structural materials are the materials selected when V-0 classification is required, and these components need to have very high strength, rigidity and energy absorption at the same time."
Three product variants are available
Tepex dynalite 102fr-RG600(x)/47% is reinforced with roving glass fiber. They can also be arranged in multiple axes to precisely match the load transfer points and load paths in the assembly. The composite material is universally applicable to high-voltage components of electric vehicle batteries, such as separators, cover plates and control unit housings.
In contrast, Tepex dynalite 102fr-FG290 is aimed at electrical and electronic applications. Through the reinforcement of fine glass fibers, a high-quality surface that is easy to spray can be produced. For example, it is suitable for small enclosures that need to comply with the standard "Railway Application-Railway Vehicle Fire Protection". Tepex dynalite 202fr is reinforced with carbon fiber and used for components that withstand extremely high mechanical stress, such as high-strength electronic enclosures.
According to related personnel: "For example, if strength and rigidity are insufficient, it can replace composite materials made of flame-retardant polycarbonate."
Mechanical properties match with standard products
The three structural materials can be used in large-scale applications. They also come in variants, which are electromagnetically shielded by carbon fiber inserts or metal surface coatings in the composite material. The UL 94 V-0 classification means that the sample thickness is between 0.5 and 3.5 mm.
The material developer explained: “The choice of flame retardant additives should ensure that the mechanical properties of the composite material are not negatively affected and are comparable to the corresponding standard materials. For example, the flexural strength of Tepex dynalite 202fr far exceeds 600 megapascals.”