GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers Launches Halogen-Free Flame-Retardant TPEs for Computer Power and Accessory Cords

 

New OnFlex™ HFFR materials offer an eco-conscious alternative to flexible PVC   in power cords for consumer electronics.

 

May 18, 2009 - GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers, a PolyOne business and global leader in high-performance, custom-formulated thermoplastics elastomers (TPEs), today announced a new family of halogen-free, flame-retardant (HFFR) TPEs that provide an alternative to traditional flexible vinyl jacketing and insulation for consumer electronics applications. The new GLS OnFlex TPE materials, designed for use in power cords for consumer electronics products, ensure a high level of safety and regulatory compliance as well as excellent performance and aesthetics.

 

GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers is currently developing a robust platform of OnFlex HFFR compounds based on multiple technologies and at different price points. As a custom compounder, GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers can further adapt these materials to the specific needs of manufacturers and OEMs.

 

“To meet stated goals for the replacement of vinyl and halogens in computers and consumer electronics, cord manufacturers need new material choices,” said Rick Noller, Director of Global Marketing, GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers. “To help customers comply with current and anticipated regulations, we have created OnFlex TPEs that meet the most stringent performance standards for AC and DC power and accessory cord applications without the need for halogenated flame retardants. These unique materials are one more example of our focus on technology, innovation and customer needs.”

 

OnFlex HFFR TPE platform

 

The OnFlex HFFR TPE platform comprises five groups of compounds, which are listed below. This wide range of technologies, together with GLS Thermoplastic Elastomers’ full customization capabilities and global supply and services network, enables manufacturers to select global solutions for global customers and regional solutions for regional customers. These materials also offer different price/performance ratios for even greater options.

 

·   OnFlex HFFR 500 products are excellent for colored power cords and accessory cords. They offer excellent colorability and superior stability of light colors with excellent chemical resistance and flexibility.

 

·   OnFlex HFFR 400 products are formulated for AC and DC power cords and connectors requiring superior abrasion performance, chemical resistance and good flexibility.

 

·   OnFlex HFFR 300 products offer superior processing speed and balance of properties, including good abrasion resistance and wear properties. They are available in black and colorable grades for AC and DC power cords and connectors.

 

·   OnFlex HFFR 200 products feature robust processing, colorability, and good flexibility for accessory and power cords, and connectors. They are easily customizable for tactile properties.

 

·   OnFlex HFFR 100 products supply a cost-effective solution for light colored AC and DC power cords and connectors. These grades can be easily customized.

 

The new OnFlex portfolio meets performance and regulatory requirements and provides exceptional visual and tactile aesthetics. All grades are made without the use of halogenated flame retardants and do not contain phthalates.

 

OnFlex HFFR TPEs can typically be processed on the same extrusion and injection molding equipment used for flexible PVC.