Thermoplastic elastomers for nonslip protective frames

In recent years, about 30% of electricity generated in the European Union has come from renewable sources, with wind and solar making up the biggest part, followed by water and biofuels, and the proportion is steadily increasing. At the same time, the energy output from these different sources is more variable and needs more intensive regulation, which requires that power quality and grid quality be precisely controlled and monitored, particularly in industrial areas of application.

The portable MYeBOX analysers from Circutor (Spain) do this work in an efficient and sturdy device protected by a nonslip frame made of THERMOLAST K from KRAIBURG TPE.

“When searching for an elastomer case material with perfect adhesion to polycarbonate, we approached our experienced injection molder and followed their recommendation,” said Javier Nebril from Circutor’s development team. “After testing several hardness variants of the AD1 THERMOLAST K series, we chose a compound that provides the frame of MYeBOX with good impact and scratch resistance and a balanced soft, but nonslip feel”.

The UL94 HB-listed TPE is characterised by cost-effective processability in multi-component injection molding. This processing capability with TPE not only allows high productivity and energy efficiency but also avoids the problem of stress cracking, which often occurs particularly with polycarbonate. In addition, the material’s recyclability significantly reduces the amount of waste produced. KRAIBURG TPE supported the customer in both material selection and testing and colour matching the compound.

MYeBOX from Circutor is a portable power analyser available in two versions that feature multiple inputs and communications interfaces including 3G and WLAN for data-driven and cloud-based digitised applications in line with the current trend towards industry 4.0. The device measures all important electrical parameters in single-phase, two-phase and three-phase installations, records system events and transients, and also monitors power quality in compliance with the EN 61000-4-30 standard. Typical applications include the recording of consumption values, load profiles, voltage disturbances, and harmonic studies for performing remote analyses and audits. The device’s features include a capacitive keyboard and an LCD screen capable of displaying graphics.

Josef Neuer at KRAIBURG TPE, explained: “Customers today expect technical devices to provide both functionality and a high degree of comfort and aesthetics. MYeBOX is an excellent example of the plenty of possible innovative applications that combine exacting technical standards with attractive and durable tactile properties, for which our thermoplastic elastomers can be used in a cost-effective way.”