Meeting the Demands of Modern E&E Applications
The electric and electronics (E&E) industries require materials that provide excellent mechanical strength, high-temperature resistance, electrical performance, and design flexibility. These demands are especially critical for components such as high-voltage connectors, miniature circuit breakers, and electric powertrain parts. This is where safety, reliability, and compact design are essential. BASF’s Ultramid® T6000, a PA66/6T compound, is engineered to bridge the gap between traditional polyamide 66 (PA66) and polyphthalamide (PPA). Delivers optimized performance tailored for these stringent requirements.
Bridging the Gap Between PA66 and PPA
Ultramid® T6000 is a high-temperature polyamide that outperforms PA66 in mechanical and dielectric properties. Particularly under humid conditions and elevated temperatures. Its reduced moisture absorption enhances dimensional stability, positioning it as a solution that closes the performance gap toward BASF’s Ultramid® Advanced PPA portfolio. BASF’s PA66/6T compound allows for easy processing at relatively low mold temperatures (90–110°C), similar to PA66, thus enabling manufacturers to use existing equipment more efficiently and even reduce energy consumption compared to PPA production.
Key features include:
- High flowability enabling molding of small, complex shapes with excellent surface finish
- Superior colorability with durable options in white, orange (RAL 2003), grey, and black
- Use of non-halogenated flame retardants enhancing electrical insulation and safety without halogen-related environmental concerns
- UL certifications such as V-0 flame rating at 0.4mm thickness and a Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) of 600, supporting miniaturization due to better insulation and lower creepage than standard PA66
Applications in Electric Vehicles and Other E&E Components
Ultramid® T6000 proves particularly valuable in electric vehicle (EV) applications, such as high-voltage connectors, where it ensures safe, durable connections between batteries, inverters, power distribution systems, and electric motors. The material’s ability to withstand high power surges, maintain insulation integrity, and support compact, flexible geometries contributes to improved performance and component longevity. Additionally, the availability of pre-colored grades with long-lasting high-temperature color stability supports safety-relevant color coding in high-voltage environments.
Beyond EVs, Ultramid® T6000 suits a broad range of E&E parts like miniature circuit breakers and components in consumer electronics, balancing toughness, flame retardance, and processing ease. For sensitive applications like fuel cells, BASF offers a high-purity grade Ultramid® T6300HG7 without flame retardants to meet purity requirements.
Summary and Advantages for Manufacturers
BASF’s Ultramid® T6000 stands out as a versatile engineering polymer that combines the favorable processing conditions of PA66 with the enhanced performance of PPA. It provides manufacturers with:
Improved mechanical and dielectric properties under challenging thermal and humid conditions
- Flexibility in color options for functional and safety-related marking
Energy-efficient molding at lower temperatures using existing PA66 equipment
Fire safety with non-halogenated flame retardants certified to stringent UL standards
This innovative polyamide offers an advanced solution for the evolving needs of electric mobility and electronics industries, driving safer, smaller, and more efficient components in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.
