Chemical

Potting resin secures rapid shutdown boxes in photovoltaic systems

Designed specifically for safety-critical electronics, the low-viscosity polyurethane compound combines high corrosion resistance

  • By ICN Bureau | January 29, 2026

As safety requirements for photovoltaic (PV) systems tighten worldwide, rapid shutdown technology is becoming critical. In emergencies, rapid shutdown boxes deactivate PV modules or strings within seconds, protecting rescue teams from dangerous voltages and ensuring safe conditions during maintenance work.

To guarantee long-term reliability under harsh conditions, the electronic components inside these shutdown boxes must withstand constant environmental, mechanical and thermal stress. WEVO-CHEMIE GmbH has developed a proven solution: the WEVOPUR 512 FLE electronic potting resin.

Designed specifically for safety-critical electronics, the low-viscosity polyurethane compound combines high corrosion resistance, permanent elasticity, a low thermal expansion coefficient and good thermal conductivity. These properties ensure consistent protection and stable performance over the lifetime of the shutdown box.

Rapid shutdown systems are already mandatory in the United States under the National Electrical Code (NEC), and similar regulations are gaining ground globally. WEVOPUR 512 FLE has been optimised for the electronic components used in these systems, enabling manufacturers to develop shutdown boxes that meet stringent North American standards and are accepted worldwide.

WEVO has fine-tuned the potting resin across several key performance areas. The compound forms a permanent bond with the housing, reliably protecting electronics against moisture and mechanical stress.

Its targeted thermal management safely dissipates heat generated during operation, while the specially developed formulation prevents electrochemical corrosion on printed circuit boards—an effect scientifically verified by the Technical University of Denmark. In addition, the combination of low thermal expansion and elastic properties effectively compensates for stresses caused by temperature fluctuations.

WEVOPUR 512 FLE complies with all relevant international norms, standards and safety requirements. It is UL 94 certified, allowing flexible electronic designs. The two-component polyurethane system is also PFAS- and TPP/TEP-free and SVHC-compliant.

Beyond performance, the material is designed for industrial-scale manufacturing. A pot life of just a few minutes enables short cycle times, while excellent flow and wetting properties ensure complete encapsulation of printed circuit boards and other components.

The reduced risk of air pockets eliminates the need for an additional evacuation step after potting, improving process reliability, throughput and cost efficiency.

In addition to rapid shutdown boxes for PV systems, WEVOPUR 512 FLE is suitable for battery systems and battery packs for power tools, as well as transformers, capacitors and sensors. Its combination of effective heat dissipation, corrosion protection and reliable processing makes it a versatile solution for high-performance electronic applications.

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