BASF is now complementing its polyphthalamide (PPA) portfolio by Ultramid Advanced N3U42G6, a polyamide 9T with non-halogenated flame-retardant, which minimizes electro-corrosion of metal contacts in electric and electronics (E&E) parts for e-mobility. 

The PPA increases the safety and durability of high-voltage (HV) connectors in e.g. inverters, DC-DC converters and batteries of electric cars. Due to its high strength and stiffness over a broad temperature range, its outstanding chemical resistance and dimensional stability, the Ultramid Advanced N grade enhances the robustness and reliability of thin-walled HV connectors meeting growing industry needs for halide-free E&E components used in warm and humid conditions. 

The new Ultramid Advanced N3U42G6 is available in uncolored with UL-certified masterbatches but also as pre-colored version with high color stability for easy processing and excellent color retention after heat ageing. 

As one of the first E&E expert companies, the automotive supplier KOSTAL Kontakt Systeme, Lüdenscheid, Germany, now uses the new Ultramid Advanced N in several components in its high-voltage connector KS22 Class 4 for high-current modules.

The HV-connector, the smallest in its performance class, benefits from the BASF PPA in several ways: It enables miniaturization and saves installation space as it shows good flowability at thin wall thickness. 

Ultramid Advanced N3U42G6 provides the connector with very high electrical insulation which beats aliphatic polyamides, especially at elevated temperatures. In addition, it has a high elongation at break so that there is no stress whitening when the different components are mounted. In this way, automotive customers can rely on the safe, long-term performance of KOSTAL’s HV-connector with the best combination of electrical insulation and mechanical properties. 

“Our new non-halogenated grade combines the excellent properties of our superhero Ultramid Advanced N with better colorability, long color stability and outstanding anti-corrosion effect”, says Volker Zeiher from technical development engineering plastics at BASF. 

“With this optimized PA9T, our customers can develop innovative, best-in-class E&E components supported by BASF’s proven flame-retardant expertise and material know-how for electronics manufacturing. Ultramid Advanced N3U42G6 is part of BASF’s tailored flame-retardant PPA portfolio for the E&E industry that advances the development of challenging parts in consumer electronics, automotive battery systems and electric powertrains.” 

Due to its low moisture uptake and high heat distortion temperature of 265°C, Ultramid Advanced N3U42G6 is especially suited for connectors post-processed with surface mount technology (SMT): It guarantees a high dimensional stability and avoids blistering or changes in dimensions of the processed part during the SMT process. The new PPA grade is especially suited for SMT as it can withstand higher temperatures while maintaining its mechanical strength. This increases the quality of the post-processed E&E components and helps to reduce waste and costs.