Celanese launches new polyamide solution for electric vehicle components

Celanese Corporation, a global specialty materials and chemicals company, has announced the global commercial launch of two new polyamide solutions for manufacturers of electric vehicle (EV) powertrain components and EV battery applications.

Excellent flame retardancy and CTI

Frianyl ® PA W-series flame-retardant polyamide solutions enable the manufacture of large, thick-walled flame-retardant components for electric vehicle batteries. With W Series solutions, manufacturers can improve the safety of these components, introduce novel designs and improve manufacturing efficiency. Potential applications include battery module housings, electronic box housings and covers, etc.

W Series solutions achieve V-0 flame retardancy at 1.5mm with excellent flow characteristics. Compared to standard PA66 grades that are 30% glass fiber reinforced, equivalent grades in the new W Series flow 10-20% better in the injection mold, depending on the pressure applied. The improved process means manufacturers can consider new designs and fill molds more easily during machining, potentially shortening cycle times. W-Series solutions also feature outstanding laser marking capabilities for all common laser marking processes.

In addition, Frianyl® PA W Series solutions exhibit excellent relative tracking index (CTI) even after aging for 1,000 hours at 125°C. The long-term color stability of parts made from these materials is also remarkable when measured at 125°C, with no changes visible to the naked eye and even nominal changes when measured in a color laboratory.

Electrical-friendly options that can overcome failure challenges

Celanese also launched Celanyl ® PA B3 GF30 E, a new polyamide-based compound for semi-electric and structural electric vehicle powertrain applications. This material grade can reach the HB flame grade and achieve a CTI of 600 even after aging for 3,000 hours at 150°C. The extremely low halide content in Celanyl® PA B3 GF330 E solutions makes it an electrically friendly choice for applications such as connectors, switches, relays, busbars and sensors where failure or short circuiting may occur when voltage is applied.

Failure is usually caused by three factors: surface moisture, elevated temperatures, and trace amounts of halide ions (such as chlorine, bromine, or iodine) that can cause electrolytic corrosion. Celanyl® B3 GF330 E solution helps manufacturers overcome these performance challenges.

Frianyl ® PA W series and Celanyl ® PA B3 GF30 E solutions are now available globally.