Reliable Connectors in 1.5 kV Photovoltaic Systems – our new LNP™ Elcres™ Copolymer from SABIC®
The market for high-quality photovoltaic solutions is continuously evolving. A current industry trend is the development of 1.5 kV PV systems instead of the previous 1.0 kV systems. The advantages, on one hand, are clear: in addition to increased efficiency, the primary benefit is the reduction of system costs. On the other hand, this transition also leads to the elevation of stricter performance and safety standards for all installed components and materials. One of the main requirements is a high comparative tracking index (CTI) according to UL PLC 0 and IEC Insulation Material Group I. This is essential to ensure system voltages of 1500 volts. With the new PC copolymer LNP™ Elcres™ EXL9334P from SABIC®, Plastoplan can meet these challenges.
High-performance in all areas: impact-resistant, dimensionally stable, weather-resistant, flame-retardant
Our long-standing partner addressed the new challenges in the photovoltaic sector early on and developed a groundbreaking polycarbonate-based copolymer: LNP™ Elcres™ meets all stricter performance and regulatory requirements for 1.5kV solar systems. The PC copolymer achieves the highest level of the Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) according to UL PLC 0 and corresponds to IEC Insulation Material Group I. This thermoplastic injection molding material features low-temperature impact strength down to -40°C, good dimensional stability, excellent long-term heat resistance, high durability, good weatherability (UL 746C f1 listing), and the necessary flame retardant properties (UL94 V0 at 1.2 mm). Furthermore, LNP™ Elcres™ impresses with design flexibility and is, last but not least, a high-performance alternative to glass-fiber reinforced polyamide, polyphenylene ether (PPE), and standard PC, optimally suited for use in photovoltaic connectors.
“Developing a flame-retardant copolymer that achieves the highest CTI value was challenging, but our experts rose to the occasion,” says Jenny Wang, Head of APAC Formulations and Applications at SABIC. “The team combined innovative thinking with technical expertise to develop LNP™ Elcres™ EXL9334P, a copolymer that meets the most demanding requirements across all areas. We will continue to work on new solutions to support the rapid growth and emerging technologies of the photovoltaic industry,” Wang promises.
