Preventing Fire Propagation in Profiles Made of Polymers

For many profile applications, there is a requirement that in the case of fire, the spread of flames is systematically slowed down. To ensure that in case of fire there is enough time to move away from the danger zone. Our customer was looking for ways to retain their existing polymer base- an HDPE extrusion grade – and at the same time meet the required fire class.

• A horizontal fire propagation rate which is in accordance with UL94 HB (≤75 mm/min for wall thicknesses <3 mm)
• Efficient retardation of fire propagation
• Halogen-free
• No formation of toxic fumes
• Use of existing standard & commodity plastics

In order for the customer to be able to fall back on its proven standard materials and its existing equipment, the use of a masterbatch solution was proposed in this case.

To test the fire properties and to investigate possible effects on the mechanical material characteristics, various test specimens were produced in the in-house technical centre. Products from the XINOMER MB HFFR masterbatch range were used for this purpose. The aim of such tests is to be able to recommend the material solution with the optimum dosage to the customer in order to accelerate the technical implementation and thus the time to market. The pre-trials allow the customer to minimise the effort for testing and prototyping.

It has been shown that with a component thickness of 1.6 mm, even with a low addition of 4 wt.% HFFR masterbatch, fire class HB according to UL94 is achieved.

The great advantage of such low additions is that the mechanical properties, material density and processability are practically unaffected. This means that the same applications can be served as it is the case with non-flame-retardant standard plastics.

Thanks to XINOMER’s many years of experience in the development of flame-retardant material solutions for customers from various industries, we were able to quickly find a cost-efficient solution that met all the requirements and fully convinced the customer of the results.

• The fire spread shall be limited in the existing base material HDPE (standard & commodity plastic) according to UL94 HB.
• In case of fire, no toxic gases must be produced.
• The same applications are to be served with the existing processes as is currently the case with non-flame-retardant standard plastics.
• Pre-trials minimised the effort required for testing and prototyping at customers’ premises.
• XINOMER found a cost-efficient solution that met both the fire regulations and the client’s requirements.

Information about flame retardant Masterbatches click here!