Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compounds from Germany's KRAIBURG TPE have found application in a heavy duty CEE-compliant PowerTOP Xtra connector by Mennekes Company (New Jersey, USA). The three phase AC plug which guarantees safe and secure handling at machinery of a major construction site or welding generators in dry dock, incorporates TPEs in the THERMOLAST® K product group to ensure safety and performance of the plug. According to the company, the TPE compounds used ensure ideal tactile characteristics in the areas where the connector is grasped while proving superb grip and high impact resistance, even under the toughest conditions. As opposed to rubber, however, they enable fast and economical manufacture in a co-injection process. The compounds have been UL tested and certified to meet the requirements of the US market.
The company indicates that the superior flow and bonding properties of the compounds made by KRAIBURG TPE permit manufacture in a two-component injection molding process thereby reduces cost of production. Accordingly, the TPE can be molded directly onto the polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) surfaces in the plug case cutting manual assembly and saving time, effort and expense. As opposed to conventional connectors, the parts molded in situ - such as the gaskets in the cap and the front section of the PowerTOP Xtra - cannot be dislocated and lost.
11-Apr-09 
