Solvent-free resins to be showcased at CWIEME Chicago

Traditionally, a magnetic core and its windings are dipped into an impregnating varnish (resin in a solvent, such as ethyl acetate or acetone) and baked in an oven to improve mechanical stability and environmental resistance. The solvent must then evaporate for the varnish to harden and protect the device, giving off hazardous fumes. A fire risk is also created by the solvent's low flash point. 

Axalta's Voltatex option, however, consists of unsaturated polyester resins dissolved in proprietary oligomers along with systems that utilise styrene or vinyl toluene monomers. Although the impregnating resins still need to heated, this is to catalyse the chemical reaction between the resins and the monomers, rather than to evaporate the liquid.

In a cost efficient way, the resins help manufacturers in the electric motor, transformer, automotive and electrical appliance sectors to meet emissions and toxicity regulations. The lower cost of the coating process, which the impregnating resins enable, will be Axalta's focus at CWIEME Chicago. Manfred Lueg, Global Business Development Manager for Axalta’s Energy Solutions division, will present the resins at a CWIEME Connect seminar on 30th September 2014, at 1.45 pm. Representatives from the company will also be available at booth no.1405 to answer any technical or commercial questions. 

“The current price of the resin is competitive with traditional solvent-based coatings, but they reduce the need for expensive exhaust systems, afterburning systems and filters, which consume a lot of energy,” says Lueg. “The performance of the resin type is at least equal to or most likely greater than that of the solvent variety, allowing design engineers to make parts smaller or have them operating at higher temperatures or at a higher power due to the increased mechanical strength."

“CWIEME Chicago is considered a one-stop shop for OEMs across the electric motor, transformer, automotive and electrical appliance sectors,” Lueg concludes, “and we’re excited to raise awareness of our low-emissions products and make new contacts in the North and South American markets – and beyond – at this essential industry event.”