TEDUR HTR (High Tracking Resistance) has polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) as its base. The high performance thermoplastic has long since proved its worth in applications with high permanent operating temperatures up to 240°C and is inherently flame-resistant without addition of flame retardants. Thanks to its high mechanical rigidity and fixity, PPS is also characterized by excellent resistance to deformation under pressure (creep) and high temperatures, low water absorption rate and excellent resistance to oils and chemicals. It, therefore, makes a suitable replacement for metal, ceramic and thermoset components. With its melting point of almost 290°C, the material is also used for reflow solderable electronic components.
The only weak point for PPS is the limited insulation properties when it comes to tracking resistance, providing a Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) of 150 – 250 (PLC 2 – 4). A given voltage and the effects of moisture and of impurities resulting from the creepage distance on the surface of the component can lead to a short-circuit and to the failure of the entire electrical component.
TEDUR HTR has a CTI of 500 (PLC 1) and combines this advantage with the other benefits of standard PPS materials. Through an innovative combination of filler and additive, the ALBIS developers succeeded in maintaining the high CTI even after aging tests under the influence of hot air (1,008 hrs / 200°C) and after climate tests (85°C/85% RH). Furthermore, contact corrosion tests in combination with various metals after storage in hot, humid conditions (1.000 h @ 85°C/85% RH) were also successfully passed.
As a result, TEDUR HTR provides the user with a range of new applications in areas such as drive technology and power supply but also for components in power electronics for wind, solar and electromobility.
Image 1: Creep resistance of TEDUR HTR vs standard PPS
Image 2: Influence of surface texture on CTI
