Shin-Etsu Chemical has developed a new silicone rubber for molding that is optimal as an insulation covering material for high-voltage cable used in automobiles.

In the case of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), their drive systems increasingly require higher-voltage/larger current cable. Because of this, high withstand voltage characteristics are being sought after for high-voltage cable for EVs and HEVs.

Accordingly, when the currently existing insulation covering material is used in order to secure the insulation’s performance, the covering layers of the cable become too thick and the cable becomes inflexible and therefore problematic to handle and to route through the interior of a vehicle. Thus, automobile manufacturers are seeking high-voltage cable that has superior flexibility that makes wiring easier to handle.

Developed by taking advantage of our company’s unique technologies, Shin-Etsu Chemical’s new silicone rubber for molding product, the KE-5641-U, will help facilitate the solution of these issues.

In addition to its usage for vehicles, the new product can also be used as an insulation covering material in high-voltage cables for applications in such fields as industrial machinery, railroad equipment, and energy plants, and it will contribute to higher performance and improved reliability.