The safety and environment insurance for digital cities

Solvay Performance Polyamides introduces an enhanced version of Technyl® One, the company’s range of halogen-free flame-retardant materials. The new generation of products meets the challenges of the digital transformingof cities by delivering more performance, safety and environmental protection.

Technyl® One is the most innovative solution in the electrical protection market

“Rapidly-developing ‘smart technologies’ triggers an increase in safety systems and their connectivity, along with the management of a smart grid. This requires solutions that are compliant with higher levels of performance, sustainability and cost-efficiency”, says Florence Schutz, Global Market Manager for Solvay’s Performance Polyamides.“ To support the emergence of these new applicationssuch as smart meters and circuit-breakers, we have strengthened our Technyl®One range. It paves the way for more complex designs by providing improved processability and flame-retardant properties consistent with the latest safety standards while offering a halogen-free solution for sustainability.”

The new generation of Technyl®One increasesthe potential for miniaturization of electrical and connection safety systems while retaining the same level of safety. Therefore, at 0.4mm wall thickness, these devices remain compliant with UL94¹ V0, ensure optimal performance (Relative Thermal Index) at 150°C, and are fire resistant (Glow Wire Ignition Temperature) up to 800°C². This material also has good environmental performance, avoiding scrap and decreasing corrosion by more than 70 percent versus a traditional high temperature halogen-free polymer.

When compared to PPA, the new generation of Technyl® Onereduces injection tool corrosion by 70 percent.

“Technyl® One is a unique and unrivalled offer on the market, ideal for systems requiring best-in-class electrical and fire properties,” highlights Schutz.“ Thanks to our solution, major players in this industry have already been able to optimizethe design of some electrical equipment, while retaining an equivalent level of safety. In some cases, OEMs changed their production process, replacing conventional materials with Technyl® One”.

The Technyl® and Technyl Star® range completes the portfolio. This range of materials exhibits excellent UL flammability ratings as well as low exudation while minimizing tooling corrosion.

Solvay Performance Polyamides offers a complete array of technical services designed to speed the time to market of new applications. This offering includes in-house UL approved labs³ formaterial certification, predictive simulation with MMI Technyl® Design⁴ , 3D printing of functional prototypes in Sinterline® PA6 powders as well as part testing at fully equipped APT® Technyl® Validation centers⁵.

® Technyl, Technyl Star, Sinterline and APT are registered trademarks of Solvay.

¹ UL94 test assesses the flame retardancy of a material (V0 = highest certification).
² 800°C isthe glow-wire ignition temperature which the material can withstand according to GWIT IEC60695-2-13.
³ Underwriters Laboratories (a US independent safetyconsulting and certification company).
⁴ MMI Technyl® Design is an advanced service powered by Digimat® from e-Xstream, an MSC Software Company.
⁵ Located in Lyon, France and Shanghai, China.

About Solvay
Solvay is an advanced materials and specialty chemicals company, committed to developing chemistry that addresses key societal challenges. Solvay innovates and partners with customers worldwide in many diverse end markets. Its products are used in planes, cars, batteries, smart and medical devices, as well as in mineral and oil and gas extraction, enhancing efficiency and sustainability. Its lightweighting materials promote cleaner mobility, its formulations optimize the use of resources and its performance chemicals improve air and water quality. Solvay is headquartered in Brussels with around 26,800 employees in 61 countries. Net sales were €10.1 billion in 2017, with 90% from activities where Solvay ranks among the world’s top 3 leaders, resulting in an EBITDA margin of 22%.