Connectors and plugs are two essential components in the operation of battery management systems, and as a leading global TPE manufacturer offering thermoplastic elastomer products and custom-engineered solutions, KRAIBURG TPE® has specifically designed the AD1/CS and FR series of compounds.

Electric vehicles are driving technological advances to enhance vehicle safety and provide a more efficient, safe and comfortable driving experience. As charging infrastructure becomes more widespread, the heart of the vehicle – the battery management system – is also evolving.

Connectors and plugs play a vital role in the battery management system, enabling the battery to operate efficiently, safely and for a longer range. These components ensure uninterrupted power supply while the vehicle is in motion and allow the battery to be continuously charged.

The choice of advanced materials is therefore crucial, as they offer top performance while protecting plugs and connectors from fire hazards. 

Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are a safe, versatile and durable material that can be used for plugs and connectors in battery charging systems.

As a globally renowned TPE manufacturer of thermoplastic elastomer products and custom-engineered solutions, KRAIBURG TPE® offers safety-compliant TPE compounds in a range of hardnesses suitable for making connectors and plugs.

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AD1/CS series – good overmolding properties for thermoplastics

Some of the TPE compounds from KRAIBURG TPE® have been certified as complying with the UL94HB flammability standard, which specifies how quickly a material can burn on ignition to reduce the risk of fire.

One of the UL94HB certified TPEs is the AD1/CS range of compounds.

This range offers good compression permanent deformation properties and overmoulding of polar thermoplastics such as ABS, PC, PC/ABS, ASA, SAN and PBT to meet a wide range of design possibilities.

Available in natural and black colours and with the possibility of secondary moulding of the plugs.

FR2 series – with high flame retardancy

The FR2 range of compounds from KRAIBURG TPE® is proven to be stable at temperatures up to 60°C and at 75% humidity. The series is self-extinguishing and does not produce molten droplets during combustion.

Available in a wide range of hardnesses, they are UL 94 V-0 (1.5 mm) certified and classified according to IN EN 45545-2 R22/23 HL3. The TPE compounds are halogen free (according to IEC 61249–2–21) and silicone free.

The FR2 range of compounds is available in black and natural colours, can be covered with PP and does not react with copper. 

Recommended for plug and connector applications in high voltage battery charging systems.

TPE success in sustainability

In addition to connectors and plugs, recent sustainable innovations from KRAIBURG TPE® include specially developed material solutions for consumer and industrial applications, including post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials and post-industrial recycled (PIR) materials.