Compounds boost EMI/RFI shielding of electronics
18 February 2008
Sabic Innovative Plastics has expanded its LNP Faradex family of specialty compounds to help electronics manufacturers achieve lighter-weight, thinner-wall housings with enhanced shielding capability. The new compounds can deliver better electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference (EMI/RFI) shielding performance without increasing their loading of stainless steel fibers, thereby keeping costs and part weight down. Proprietary filler technology not only improves inherent shielding capability of existing loadings, but also increases modulus to enable strong and durable thin-wall parts. The addition of the new LNP Faradex compounds provides customers with an even broader range of EMI/RFI shielding performances and physical properties to help meet customer requirements.
The five new LNP Faradex compounds are alloys of polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC/ABS). They include three grades featuring non-brominated, non-chlorinated flame retardants (FR) for compliance with such environmental regulations as the EU’s WEEE and RoHS directives, and other eco labels. The two non-FR grades offer higher impact resistance than previous LNP Faradex compounds. Varieties of other base resins are also available based on customer requirements.
Applications for the flame-retardant grades of the new Faradex compounds include enclosures for virtually any small or medium-size electronic devices, such as servers, portable meters, and projectors. The non-FR grades are excellent candidates for digital camera housings and audio systems in vehicles. The new LNP Faradex compounds provide mechanical properties, part weight, and design freedom similar to those of standard unfilled base resins.
Because their inherent shielding technology eliminates costly secondary steps such as applying a metallized layer to plastic components, manufacturers can potentially reduce total system costs. EMI/RFI attenuation permeates the part, ensuring consistent performance even in the case of surface scratches. Further, the ability to injection-mould new Faradex compounds enables intricate part design.
Contact Details and Archive...