BASF and Ningbo Yaohua Electric Technology Co., Ltd., have co-created a concept switchgear cabinet with insulation components made of BASF’s high-performance material solutions Ultramid Polyamide (PA) and Ultradur Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT). The switchgear cabinet – responsible for controlling, protecting, and isolating electrical equipment and circuits – is a vital component of an electrical power system.
Compared to conventional thermosetting materials, embedded pole, bushing, insulated spindle, and static contact socket of the disconnect switch made with Ultramid and Ultradur are recyclable. The processing and production of Ultramid and Ultradur is also more energy efficient.
Commenting on how BASF is addressing the current trend in the switchgear market, Jiangang Liu, Chairman, Yaohua, said, “The trend across the switchgear market is towards using more sustainable materials which reduce carbon emissions throughout the product’s life cycle. With BASF’s solutions, we have significantly improved the overall recyclability of our switchgear cabinet and a step closer to achieving our company’s sustainability goals.”
The electrical cabinet is also more reliable for long-term use in a wide range of harsh environments owing to the high mechanical strength and good electrical insulation properties of Ultramid and Ultradur.
Focusing on their walk together, Eng Guan Soh, Vice President, Business Management Engineering Plastics, Performance Materials Asia Pacific, BASF, said, “Together with Yaohua, we are enabling the green transformation of the medium and high voltage switchgear cabinet industry with our advanced material solutions. Our Creation Center China also provided expertise and technical guidance for the design of the switchgear cabinet and key component mockup.”
