Tetrachim News #1 – Our Selection of Specialty Coatings for Electrical Applications
In the ever-evolving landscape of electrical applications, the demand for advanced specialty coatings is higher than ever. These coatings are pivotal in enhancing the performance, durability, and safety of electrical components. In this first edition of our Tetrachim News, we decided to explore a range of cutting-edge coatings that are key to develop the electrical systems needed for the future of our mobility and our industry.
Have a look through our selection below:
Tetrachim Selection
- 3M – Scotchcast™ 260
- Arkema – Rilsan® ESY white 7704 and ESY Orange 7705
- Arkema – Kynar® Flex 281
- Arkema – Kepstan® 6002 PL
- Saint-Gobain® Aluminum Oxide, Alumina Titania, and Yttria Coatings for Thermal Spraying
Scotchcast™ 260 – a versatile option for standard electrical applications
Scotchcast™ 260 is a high-performance green epoxy resin used extensively in electrical applications such as rotors, stators, transformers, and toroids. It is particularly recognized for its performance in edge coverage and high points. It offers superior dielectric properties, thermal stability, and moisture resistance, ensuring optimal performance and longevity of electrical components in harsh environments. The product is approved UL 1446 Electrical Insulation System (EIS) at class B (130°C), F (155°C) and H (180°C).
Rilsan® ESY White 7704 and ESY Orange 7705 – Bio-based flexible coatings
Derived from renewable sources, Rilsan® ESY 7704 and 7705 are versatile polyamide 11 coatings known for their exceptional performance in demanding environments. They provide excellent resistance to chemicals, abrasion, and UV exposure, making them ideal for various electrical applications including wire and cable insulation, connectors, and sensors. Their high flexibility allows for parts to be machined or shaped after the coating step and ensures long-term reliability in dynamic conditions.
The colors of Rilsan® ESY White 7704 is close to RAL 9016 and Rilsan® ESY 7705 is close to RAL 2003.
Kynar® ADX Flex 281 – for high dielectric and mechanical strength
Kynar® ADX Flex 281 is a PVDF used in electrical applications such as battery separators and binders for anodes and cathodes in lithium-ion batteries. Its high purity, excellent mechanical resistance, and UV stability make it an ideal choice for applications requiring longevity and reliability. Kynar® ADX Flex 281 is also easy to process and can be used without primer.
Kepstan® 6002 PL – for electrical applications under extreme conditions
Kepstan® 6002 PL is a high-performance PEKK, polymer known for its exceptional temperature resistance up to 250°C, mechanical strength, and chemical inertness. It is widely used in high-performance busbars, connectors, insulators, and housings that require robust performance under extreme conditions. Its inherent flame retardancy and low smoke emissions make it suitable for critical electrical applications.
Saint-Gobain® Ceramic Coatings – excellent insulating and thermal properties
Saint-Gobain® Ceramic Coatings applied by thermal spraying provide high levels of insulation, wear resistance, and thermal protection. It will typically be used for parts in need of both excellent electrical insulation and thermal barrier such as insulators, circuit breakers, switch gears, or heat sinks.
– Alumina (Al2O3): Known for its hardness and wear resistance, aluminum oxide coatings offer excellent electrical insulation and thermal barrier properties.
– Alumina Titania (Al2O3-TiO2): Combining the properties of aluminum oxide and titanium dioxide, these coatings provide enhanced toughness and improved thermal shock resistance, making them suitable for high-temperature electrical insulation.
– Yttria (Y2O3): Yttria coatings are used in high-temperature applications due to their outstanding density and high melting point. They are also resistant to chemical attack, making them ideal for plasma-sprayed coatings in extreme environments.
Summary of Applications and Advantages of Specialty Coatings for Electrical Applications
| Coating/Technology | Material | Applications | Advantages |
| Rilsan® ESY White 7704 and ESY Orange 7705 by Arkema | Polyamide11 | Busbars
Heat exchangers Battery racks Switchgears Connectors Field coils Toroidal inductors Rotors and stators Other electrical components Chiller plates Cooling channels |
High dielectric resistance • Improved thermal stability • Great chemical resistance • Unmatched mechanical durability • Easy thermoplastic processing |
| 3M ScotchcastTM 260 | Epoxy | Fast curing • Excellent electrical properties • Excellent thermal shock and impact resistance • Excellent heat, chemical and moisture resistance • Excellent cut-through resistance • Excellent flow | |
| Kepstan® 6002 PL by Arkema | PEKK | High-performance connectors, busbars, insulators, and housings, magnet wire | Low Dk & high dielectric strength >200°C • Exceptional thermal resistance • Mechanical strength • Chemical inertness • Very good direct adhesion onto metals |
| Kynar® ADX FLEX 281 by Arkema | PVDF | Battery separators, capacitor films, and wire insulation | High purity • Excellent chemical resistance • UV stability |
| Saint-Gobain® Ceramic coatings | Al2O3,
Al2O3-TiO2, Y2O3 |
Insulators, electrical connectors, components requiring electrical insulation (e.g. ball bearings) | High dielectric strength •Superior hardness • Excellent wear resistance • Thermal barrier |
The advancements in specialty coatings for electrical applications continue to push the boundaries of performance and reliability. From the flexibility and durability of Rilsan® ESY 7704 and 7705 to the thermal stability of Kepstan® PEKK 6002 PL and the robust protection offered by thermal spraying technologies, these solutions are critical in meeting the growing demands of the energy industry.
At Tetrachim, we remain committed to providing the latest solutions to enhance the efficiency and longevity of your electrical components. Our specialty coatings and application know-how ensure that your electrical components will be protected and perform optimally under various conditions.
For more information on our products and technologies, contact our technical team.