Ticona expands portfolio of V-0, halogen-free engineering thermoplastics for E/E applications

27-May-09

Ticona Engineering Polymers recently announced the addition of a new low-chlorine Vectra® liquid crystal polymer (LCP) alloy grade to its portfolio of V-0 halogen-free polymers. The new low-chlorine Vectra alloy grade, V143LC, is a high-performance inherently flame resistant (FR) thermoplastic without the need for FR additives. It is said to withstand high surface mount technology soldering temperatures used in the electrical and electronics (E/E) industry. Due to its improved processability, the new grade gives option for FR high-temperature nylons that use flame retardant additives. With growing demand for low-chlorine content products, the V143LC alloy fuses improved polymerization and original compound technologies to reduce chlorine concentrations to below 900 parts per million (PPM). This reduction in chlorine concentrations is accomplished without a loss of the superior mechanical properties that make the Vectra alloy a material of choice for making connectors, switches and other electrical components. According to Ticona, the benefits of the new low-chlorine Vectra V143LC alloy include improved weldline strength, low warpage in certain geometries, high temperature resistance, high flow, thin walls and fast cycle times.