Fluoropolymer-insulated wires and cables offer exceptional performance and reliability in various electrical applications. These specialized cables are constructed using fluoropolymer materials such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene), and ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene), known for their outstanding thermal, chemical, and electrical properties.
Excellent Chemical Resistance:
Fluoropolymers such as PTFE, FEP, and PFA exhibit exceptional resistance to chemicals, acids, bases, solvents, and oils. This makes fluoropolymer-insulated wires ideal for use in harsh and corrosive environments where exposure to chemicals is common.
High Temperature Stability:
Fluoropolymers can withstand high temperatures without losing their physical or electrical properties. PTFE, for example, can typically operate continuously at temperatures up to 260°C (500°F), making it suitable for high-temperature applications.
Superior Electrical Insulation Properties:
Fluoropolymer insulation provides excellent electrical insulation and dielectric strength, even at high temperatures. This makes fluoropolymer-insulated wires suitable for use in electrical and electronic devices where reliable insulation is critical.
Low Dielectric Constant and Loss Tangent:
Fluoropolymers have low dielectric constants and loss tangents, which contribute to their excellent electrical performance. They minimize signal loss and interference, making fluoropolymer-insulated wires suitable for high-frequency applications.
Flexibility and Flex Life:
Fluoropolymer-insulated wires are flexible and have good flex life, meaning they can withstand repeated bending and flexing without cracking or breaking. This flexibility makes them suitable for use in applications where movement or vibration is present.
Non-Stick and Low Friction Properties:
Fluoropolymers have a low coefficient of friction and are inherently non-stick, which reduces abrasion and wear. This property is beneficial in applications involving moving parts or where wire insulation needs to slide smoothly over surfaces.
Resistance to Environmental Factors:
Fluoropolymer-insulated wires exhibit resistance to UV radiation, moisture, and weathering, making them suitable for outdoor and harsh environment applications.
Thin and Lightweight Construction:
Fluoropolymer-insulated wires can be manufactured with thin insulation layers while maintaining excellent electrical properties. This results in lightweight wires that are easier to handle and install.
Wide Range of Operating Conditions:
Fluoropolymer-insulated wires can operate effectively across a wide range of temperatures and environmental conditions, from cryogenic temperatures to high-temperature environments.
Long Service Life and Reliability:
The combination of chemical resistance, high temperature stability, and excellent electrical properties results in fluoropolymer-insulated wires having a long service life with minimal degradation over time.
Electrical Safety Standards
UL (Underwriters Laboratories) Standards:
UL 83: Standard for Thermoplastic-Insulated Wires and Cables.
UL 758: Standard for Appliance Wiring Materials (AWM), including fluoropolymer-insulated wires.
UL 910: Standard for Flame-Propagation Test for Wire and Cable.
IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) Standards:
IEC 60227: Polyvinyl chloride insulated cables (including requirements for insulation materials).
IEC 60245: Rubber-insulated cables (including requirements for insulation materials).
Performance and Quality Standards
IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) Standards:
IEEE 1202: Standard for Flame Testing of Cables for Use in Cable Tray in Industrial and Commercial Occupancies.
NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) Standards:
NEMA WC 27500: Standard for Aerospace and Industrial Electrical Cable.
NEMA WC 63.1: Standard for Crosslinked Polyethylene (XLPE) Insulated Wire and Cable.
Environmental and Safety Standards
RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) Directive:
Restricts the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment, including cables.
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) Regulation:
Regulates the use of chemicals in products, including cables, to ensure safety and environmental protection.