WCA September 2023

Technology News

Simplifying the colouring of TPU cables with a single masterbatch

This harmonisation of cable colours allows cable manufacturers to simplify production processes and reduce required masterbatch references. Rather than having to use a specific colour masterbatch reference for each TPU compound according to its fire resistance, the solution offered by Delta Tecnic allows a single colour masterbatch to cover the different TPU compounds, simplifying the number of references and unifying the final colour of the cables manufactured, regardless of the degree of flame retardant required. The key to this solution lies in the economy of scale and the optimisation of production. Although the master- batch used for white-coloured TPU is more expensive (because of the higher pigment load needed to obtain the correct colour), the increase in batch size and the consolidation of individual productions have enabled a single masterbatch to be obtained. This not only generates cost savings for manufacturers, but also reduces the material needed in inventory. TPU has become increasingly important in the cable industry, particularly in electric vehicle charging. Its flexibility, resistance and outdoor-use PCD and carbide – that enable them to be both efficient and durable. For smaller-diameter conductors, Ajex & Turner’s trapezoidal-shape dies can be enlarged to provide a greater cross sectional area of aluminium and match the diameter of the conventional round conductor. During the production of its dies and extrusion tooling, the company uses artificial intelligence to calculate the hot and cold majoring values. Taking into account the shrinkage of the tooling, it is able to predict at the beginning how the final product will look, which is important to customers producing high quality products. Ajex & Turner Wire Technologies Pvt Ltd www.ajexturner.com

Delta Tecnic is a specialist in the production of masterbatch for the cable and PVC industry. In a market where customisation and quality are highly valued, the company has simplified and optimised the process of colouring TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) cables by using a single masterbatch per colour. TPU – one of the most widely used polymers in special cables – offers resistance to rubbing and the ability to withstand continuous and mechanical movements. However, fire resistance is a critical factor in many applications, both in buildings and machinery. With the increase in fire-safety-related restrictions, the demand for more fire resistant TPU cables has been increasing. To make TPU flame retardant it is necessary to add fire-retardant fillers such as white-coloured mineral fillers. The more charges added, the higher the fire resistance. Different grades of fire resistance in the TPU on the market each have a different shade of white. This creates challenges for cable manufacturers, as each grade of TPU requires a specific colour masterbatch. In this context, Delta Tecnic has developed a single masterbatch capable of covering the same colour in the different ranges of TPU.

Delta Tecnic specialises in masterbatch for cables

properties make it suitable for cables in applications such as charging stations and in electric vehicles themselves. Manuel Miret, area manager and new product developer at Delta Tecnic, said, “The solution we have developed for colouring special cables with polymers such as TPU marks an important advance in the industry. By offering a single masterbatch per colour capable of covering all ranges of TPU, we simplify and optimise cable production processes. It is a clear example of how customisation and quality can go hand in hand in the cable industry, offering solutions adapted to the needs of each application.” Delta Tecnic https://deltatecnic.com

Sector conductor dies to draw aluminium strands India’s Ajex & Turner Wire Technologies designs TW/sector conductor dies in PCD, VNT nano and carbide to draw aluminium strands to ASTM standards. The dies are suitable for various ACSR, ACCC, ACSS and ACFR specifications, among others.

The company states that its TW dies are designed to ensure accurate quality parameters, to obtain aluminium strands that are shaped to provide a smooth outer surface that can meet applicable ASTM standards. The dies are made from high-quality raw materials – VNT nano,

A complete conductor with trapezoidal shaped strands

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September 2023