17 Oct 2017

Ascend introduces new high performance PA66 for electrical components in unattended appliances at Fakuma 2017

HOUSTON – October 17, 2017 – Ascend Performance Materials, the world’s largest fully integrated producer of polyamide 66 resin, launched Vydyne® FR350J, a new high performance compound based on polyamide 66 (PA66) that will bring extra safety to electrical connectors used in unattended home appliances. The grade is one of the highlights at Ascend’s booth at the Fakuma plastics processing exhibition in Friedrichshafen, Germany, October 17-21.

In addition to excellent electrical and flammability properties, Vydyne FR350J also exhibits high ductility and elongation at break (15 percent), providing engineers with greater freedom when designing parts such as living hinges and snap fits.

The new unreinforced, flame-retardant compound also has superior melt flow and requires lower pressure to fill molds; reducing cycle times and production costs. Vydyne FR350J has a wide processing window and is color stable for natural and colorable applications.

“Home appliances are getting smarter and demand for these so-called ‘smart’ products continues to grow. That means they will incorporate more electronics and more connectors,” said Vikram Gopal, Ascend’s vice president of technology. “Vydyne FR350J will make sure that appliances are safe as well as smart.”

Best-in-class performance
Additional features of Vydyne FR350J include an RTI electrical rating of 130°C (RTI is the relative temperature index; RTI electrical is an indication of how critical electrical insulating properties vary with temperature) and a UL94 V-0 flammability rating at thicknesses down to 0.4 mm. The flame retardant additive package is REACH and RoHS compliant and exhibits low corrosion for improved electrical contact performance.

Vydyne FR350J exhibits a best-in-class glow wire ignition temperature (GWIT) of 960°C at all thicknesses (up to 3.0 mm) according to the test method IEC 60695-1-13. Finished molded parts tested according to IEC 60335-1 achieved glow-wire end product test values of 750°C at all thicknesses. Vydyne FR350J also achieves PLC 0 ratings in hot wire ignition (HWI) and high amp arc ignition (HAI) tests carried out according to UL 746A.

At Fakuma, Ascend will be exhibiting at booth 4119 in hall A4.

Reader enquiries

Ascend Performance Materials
JP Morgan Chase Tower
1010 Travis Street, Suite 900
Houston, TX 77002
U.S.A.

+1 713 315 5700

www.ascendmaterials.com

Notes for editors

About Ascend Performance Materials
Ascend Performance Materials is a global premium provider of high-quality plastics, fibers and chemicals. Ascend is one of the world’s largest integrated PA66 producers, with its own in-house manufacturing facilities, ensuring total security of supply. Ascend’s product range has earned it an unequalled reputation for quality, innovative techniques and an enlightened approach to business that expands the horizons of possibility. With eight global locations and more than 2,400 people working at our sites around the world, Ascend has the inspiration, the expertise, the people and the attitude toward innovation to consistently deliver the right solution for customers.

Together, we’re making a difference.
Together, we’re inspiring everyday.

More information about Ascend can be found at www.ascendmaterials.com.

About SK Capital
SK Capital is a private investment firm with a disciplined focus on the specialty materials, chemicals and healthcare sectors. The firm’s purpose is to build strong and growing businesses that create substantial long-term economic value. SK utilizes its industry, operating and investment experience to identify opportunities to transform businesses into higher performing organizations with improved strategic positioning, growth and profitability as well as lower operating risk. SK Capital’s portfolio companies generate revenues of approximately $8 billion annually and employ approximately 9,000 people. The firm currently manages more than $1.5 billion of committed capital. For more information, please visit www.skcapitalpartners.com.

Disclaimer
Although the information and recommendations set forth herein (hereinafter “Information”) are presented in good faith and believed to be correct as of the date hereof, Ascend Performance Materials Operations LLC makes no representations or warranties as to the completeness or accuracy thereof. The full disclaimer of warranty and liability can be found at ascendmaterials.com/disclaimer.