As electric vehicles (EVs) replace traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) platforms, their powertrains depend on large battery packs to supply energy to electric motors. Battery management systems regulate temperature, voltage, and current at the cell level, requiring effective heat dissipation to operate safely and efficiently over time.
The growing complexity and processing load of these systems generate significant heat, making thermal management a critical design factor.
To address this, Parker has announced the availability of THERM-A-GAP CIP 35E, a two-component, cure-in-place thermal interface material engineered to meet the increasing thermal demands of BMS in EVs and hybrid vehicles (HEVs and PHEVs).
THERM-A-GAP CIP 35E is designed as an alternative to hard-curing dispensable materials and offers improvements over standard thermal gap filler pads. Once cured, it forms a low-hardness (50 Shore 00) elastomeric gap pad that maintains consistent thermal contact without placing excess stress on surrounding components. This is particularly important in battery environments subject to rapid thermal cycling, where dimensional changes are common.
Softer, more compliant materials like CIP 35E are better suited to accommodate this expansion and contraction, whereas rigid materials may crack or damage nearby electronics. Because EV systems often require rework or periodic maintenance, the soft-cure formulation also supports easier disassembly without fracture or delamination, improving long-term serviceability.
The material features a 1:1 mix ratio and low viscosity, making it suitable for manual and automated dispensing. It conforms to complex geometries and small gaps to maximize thermal contact. A snap-cure profile enables fast processing and reduces oil bleed by curing before migration occurs.
By combining thermal conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and processing efficiency, THERM-A-GAP CIP 35E meets the evolving requirements of EV platforms, where thermal regulation, component protection, and maintainability are essential.
Filed Under: BMS, Technology News