EuroWire November 2016

news Technology

lArge-ScAle production of flame-retardant XlPe insulated cables requires a cost-effective and reliable material solution. in addition to this there is an increase in demand for safe halogen-free cable solutions which are effective in preventing the spread of a fire as well as reduced levels of toxic smoke. The major challenges for cable producers today are processing efficiency and short shelf life of existing solutions. Borealis and Borouge’s new Visico™ Fr compound solutions overcome these challenges and make the flame-retardant cable production much easier and simpler. Based on Borealis’ proven Visico technology, these silane cross-linkable compounds are produced without the grafting process of the silane additives. The silane needed for the cross-linking is incorporated in the high-pressure polymerisation phase, resulting in products with high quality consistency that are less prone to scorch during extrusion. They also have a longer shelf life in comparison to grafted alternatives. When using this new solution, cable manufacturers can achieve better productivity and reduced scrap production, thereby lowering the total cost of production. Visico™ Fr4451 – supporting growth of solar energy: The expected global growth of solar energy is bringing increased demand for photovoltaic cables to connect the solar panels to the energy network. These cables need to be flame retardant, halogen-free and able to withstand significant heat and mechanical impact. Visico Fr4451, a new halogen-free crosslinked compound solution, meets these demanding requirements for this type of cable while enabling high productivity, quality consistency and cost-effective cable production. The combined solution of Visico Fr4451 and catalyst masterbatch le4439 is designed to meet photovoltaic cable standards TÜV 2Pfg 1169 and en 50618. Visico™ Fr4450 – pioneering sustainable solution for ul style building and industrial wires: conventional flame-retardant compounds for ul style building and industrial wires are typically halogenated using antimony and bromine flame retardant additives. in spite of their effectiveness as a flame retardant, there are major concerns about these types of additives regarding their impact on the environment and people. demanding requirements on wet electrical performance and mechanical impact make it very difficult to replace conventionally used solutions with halogen-free compounds based on mineral fillers. Visico Fr4450, however, combines the benefits of Borealis’ proven Visico and caisco™ technologies with a natural catalyst masterbatch le4439 or a black catalyst masterbatch le4433. The system is recognised by underwriters laboratories for ul 44 and ul 854 wires meeting the stringent requirements of a horizontal burn test. Borealis AG – Austria Website : www.borealisgroup.com New flame-retardant halogen-free cable compound solutions

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november 2016