Two engineering thermoplastics from NexPoint Materials, LEXAN BPL1000 and CYCOLOY C2950 resins, have achieved the highest rating in the UL 2597 Surface Tracking Test (STT) for high-voltage applications at 900 V.
The 900 V UL 2597 Surface Tracking Test results for LEXAN BPL1000 and CYCOLOY™ C2950 resins provide valuable performance data for engineers evaluating insulating materials across high-voltage applications.
The results provide performance data for engineers evaluating insulating materials for high-voltage applications, including electric vehicle (EV) systems, faster-charging architectures, connectors, and battery systems.
Surface tracking occurs when electrical discharges on the surface of an insulating material progressively create a conductive path, causing carbonization and damage that can potentially compromise electrical insulation effectiveness.
The surface tracking resistance is an important consideration when designing high-voltage electrical systems, particularly as EV battery voltage levels increase beyond 400 V.
UL’s standardized 2597 Surface Tracking Test methodology evaluates insulating materials intended for transportation applications at voltages from 600 to 900 V. The test results provide additional performance data for engineers designing high-voltage systems where surface tracking resistance is an important consideration.
NexPoint’s high-voltage materials extend beyond LEXAN and CYCOLOY resins. Flame-retardant VALOX resins are available in grades with a high comparative tracking index (CTI), along with others designed for high service temperatures. The VALOX resin portfolio includes grades with relative thermal index (RTI) capabilities reaching 140° C.
High-CTI materials can also allow engineers to reduce creepage distances while maintaining safety margins against electrical failures, which can be useful when designing more compact high-voltage connectors.
Flame-retardant LEXAN, CYCOLOY, and VALOX resins provide material options for high-voltage connectors, EV fast-charging systems, power distribution, and energy storage applications.
Filed Under: Technology News