Crosslinking
Optimizing products in our own irradiation center
A robust three-dimensional network of plastics improves many product properties. In our own irradiation center, products are made elastic, chemical-resistant and non-meltable.
Crosslinked polymers
We crosslink plastics with fast electrons (beta rays) in our own state-of-the-art irradiation center. These electrons release their kinetic energy during deceleration in the plastic. By influencing the shell electrons, the molecular chains are interconnected. This creates a three-dimensional network.
Elastic
Above the melting temperature, the material can no longer flow, but changes to a rubber-elastic state. This radiation crosslinking can be applied to many products, be it stranded goods (shrink tubes, cables or heating pipes) or technical parts (housing parts, gemstones or seals). Even semiconductor parts are specifically doped with electrons to optimize certain properties.
Interested in improved products?
Discover the transformative power of a three-dimensional plastic network from Studer Cables. Our irradiation facility uses beta rays to make plastics tough, chemical resistant and non-meltable. From improved product performance to environmental friendliness, our radiation crosslinking offers multiple benefits. Contact us to learn more about our innovative technology!
Non fusible
- Resistance to thermal overload: Crosslinking prevents components from deforming in the event of a short-term overtemperature. Without crosslinking, on the other hand, sticking or hidden damage is possible. For example, crosslinked insulations can withstand a very high short-circuit temperature of up to 280 °C and more. This prevents further short circuits and deformation.
- Resistance to contact heat: Increased attention must be paid to contact heat and limited heat dissipation. The proven "combined installation method" is only possible if all cables are e-beam crosslinked.
Chemical resistant
Chemical resistance is improved by e-beam crosslinking. The crosslinking reduces swelling in oily media or massively increases stress crack resistance when in contact with cleaning agents and solvents.
- Reduced swelling in oily media: Extended use in oily environments and applications.
- Media and solvent resistance: Contact with aggressive liquids, paints, cleaning agents and solvents possible.
- Mutual compatibility: Largely inert behavior toward adjacent parts or sealants, because no chemically aggressive components need to be added during radiation crosslinking.
- Environmentally friendly: The process uses fast "electrons", like a television tube, where large accelerating voltages and electric deflecting magnets are also used. Environmentally friendly process that does not require the addition of highly reactive chemicals. Responsible contribution to the reduction of problematic chemicals in the process and in the disposal.
Proof of quality
- Detection and determination of the degree of crosslinking: For the determination of the degree of crosslinking, the hot set determination method according to EN 60811-201 and 401 is used as standard.
- Long-term aging: The crosslinking has nothing to do with the long-term temperature resistance (aging stability) of the polymers! The aging stability is achieved by an optimal composition of the polymer blend. Long-term aging is a thermal test and is performed according to IEC 60216-1. The materials are aged at different temperatures and the results are plotted on the Arrhenius diagram. Several measured values may be extrapolated to the 20,000 hr time line. At least one 5,000-hr measured value must also be available. Evaluation criterion: At least 50% residual elongation after 20,000 hours at 125 °C.
- Avoidance of chemical additives: The elimination of chemical additives offers an important advantage. The crosslinking reaction in radiation crosslinking is determined by the electrons, and the crosslinking reaction ends immediately after the end of the treatment. In contrast, crosslinking by chemical additives, like any chemical reaction, takes time. The degree of crosslinking determined is therefore dependent on the time at which the specimen is taken and can therefore not be determined precisely.
