Flame-retardant plastic material and home appliance comprising same

Abstract

This home appliance may comprise: a main body that forms the exterior; and a control panel that is connected to the main body and includes a printed circuit board and a panel housing surrounding at least a portion of the printed circuit board, wherein the panel housing may include: polypropylene-based resin; recycled plastic resin; a flame retardant comprising a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen; and glass fibers, the flame retardant including at least one of compounds containing pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide.

Description

Flame-retardant plastic materials and home appliances containing the same

[0001] One embodiment disclosed in this document relates to a flame-retardant plastic material, and more specifically, to a flame-retardant plastic material for a housing included in a home appliance.

[0002] In order to prevent fire hazards that may occur in home appliances and to limit the spread of fire in the event that components within the appliance ignite, internal and external components for home appliances may be manufactured from flame-retardant materials. In particular, fire spread can be prevented by applying flame-retardant materials to the internal and external surfaces of the home appliance, including the casing surrounding the printed circuit board (PCB).

[0003] To prevent the spread of fire, multiple appliance parts can be produced by bending metal materials (e.g., steel plates); however, this can lead to process complexity and increased production costs. Therefore, there is a growing trend to apply integrated parts made of flame-retardant plastic materials to prevent fire spread in appliances.

[0004] Meanwhile, due to the recent tightening of international environmental regulations, the use of halogen-based (e.g., bromine (Br)) flame retardants in flame-retardant materials is being restricted. This is because when halogen-based flame-retardant plastic materials burn, substances harmful to the human body and the environment, such as dioxins and furans, are generated. Consequently, there is a growing trend of increasing cost burdens and scope when manufacturing products containing hazardous substances. Therefore, to mitigate hazardous substances, flame-retardant materials can be manufactured by applying phosphorus / nitrogen-based materials. Furthermore, by using flame-retardant materials that possess high flame retardancy and enhanced resistance to flames upon ignition, it is possible to minimize external damage and reduce the generation of hazardous substances in the event of a fire.

[0005] The information described above may be provided as related art for the purpose of aiding understanding of the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the foregoing may be applied as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0006] A flame-retardant plastic material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be composed of a compound comprising a phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound, which provides a flame-retardant function of a predetermined level or higher and has flame resistance of a predetermined level or higher.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, a home appliance may include: a main body forming an exterior; and a control panel connected to the main body, comprising a printed circuit board and a panel housing surrounding at least one part of the printed circuit board, wherein the panel housing may include a polypropylene-based resin; a recycled plastic resin; a flame retardant comprising a compound comprising phosphorus and nitrogen, and further comprising at least one compound among compounds comprising pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide; and a flame retardant plastic composition comprising glass fiber.

[0008] The above-mentioned compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen may further include at least one compound among piperazine pyrophosphate, melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, and alkylamine polyphosphate.

[0009] The flame-retardant plastic composition may further include a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen in an amount of 25% to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0010] The flame retardant may further include a combination of pyrophoric acid and zinc oxide in an amount of 5% to 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame retardant.

[0011] The flame-retardant plastic composition may further include 5% to 15% by weight of glass fibers relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0012] The above glass fibers may have an average particle size of 5 μm to 15 μm (micrometer) and fibers of 1 mm to 16 mm (millimeter).

[0013] The flame-retardant plastic composition may further comprise 35% to 55% by weight of the polypropylene-based resin based on the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, and the polypropylene-based resin may comprise at least one polymer among polymers including propylene homopolymer, ethylene-propylene random copolymer, and ethylene-propylene block copolymer.

[0014] The above polypropylene-based resin may have a melt flow index of 5 g / 10 min to 50 g / 10 min.

[0015] The above recycled plastic resin may include recycled polypropylene and recycled polyethylene, and the flame-retardant plastic composition may further include 10% to 20% by weight of the recycled plastic resin relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0016] The above recycled plastic resin may further include a composition ratio of the above recycled polypropylene and the above recycled polyethylene of 1:0.05 to 1:0.2.

[0017] The flame-retardant plastic composition may have a shrinkage rate of 0.3% to 0.8%.

[0018] The flame-retardant plastic composition may have an Izod notch impact strength of 4.0 kgf·cm / cm to 4.5 kgf·cm / cm.

[0019] The flame-retardant plastic composition may have a flexural modulus of 20,000 kgf / cm2 to 27,000 kgf / cm2.

[0020] The flame-retardant plastic composition may have a tensile strength of 240 kgf / cm2 to 280 kgf / cm2.

[0021] The flame-retardant plastic composition may have a melt flow index of 5 g / min to 10 g / min.

[0022] According to the present disclosure, a washing machine may comprise: a main body including an input port configured to receive laundry; a rotatable drum disposed inside the main body; a door configured to open and close the input port; and a control assembly including a control board connected to the main body and including a printed circuit board, and a control housing surrounding at least one part of the control board, wherein the control housing may comprise a flame-retardant plastic composition including a polypropylene-based resin; a recycled plastic resin; a flame retardant comprising a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen, further comprising at least one compound among compounds including pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide; and glass fiber.

[0023] The above-mentioned compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen may further include at least one compound among piperazine pyrophosphate, melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, and alkylamine polyphosphate.

[0024] The flame-retardant plastic composition may further include a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen in an amount of 25% to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0025] The flame retardant may further include a combination of the pyrophoric acid and the zinc oxide in an amount of 5% to 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame retardant.

[0026] The flame-retardant plastic composition may further include 5% to 20% by weight of the glass fibers relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0027] The glass fibers may have an average particle size of 5 μm to 15 μm (micrometer) and an average length of 1 mm to 16 mm (millimeter).

[0028] However, the problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and may be determined in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0029] A flame-retardant plastic material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure has a predetermined level of flame retardancy and flame resistance, and can reduce the spread of fire when a fire occurs.

[0030] A flame-retardant plastic material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can limit the generation of harmful gases during combustion because it does not contain halogen-based substances.

[0031] A flame-retardant plastic material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can be manufactured with a low-cost composition, thereby increasing productivity.

[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates the appearance of a material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 2 illustrates the appearance of the material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 3 illustrates the appearance of the material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a control panel included in a washing machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a control panel included in a cooking appliance according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an indoor unit of an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view focusing on a substrate assembly included in a refrigerator according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] The embodiments of this document and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of said embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B or C," "at least one of A, B and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" may each include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish said components from other said components and do not limit said components in any other aspect (e.g., importance or order).

[0043] Hereinafter, in this document, "front-back direction," "left-right direction," and "up-down direction" may be used based on the illustrated drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by this.

[0044] According to one embodiment, each component (e.g., module or program) of the components described above may include a singular or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separated and placed in other components.

[0045] Various types of home appliances described below (e.g., washing machine (400) of FIG. 4, cooking appliance (600) of FIG. 6, indoor unit (800) of FIG. 8, and refrigerator (900) of FIG. 9)) are to be understood as being illustrative for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the present disclosure and may be understood to be implemented with various modifications. Additionally, some of the attached drawings may not be drawn to actual scale and the dimensions of some components may be exaggerated to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 1 illustrates the appearance of a material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 2 illustrates the appearance of the material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 3 illustrates the appearance of the material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIGS. 1 to 3 illustrate the appearance of materials after conducting flame resistance evaluations on examples, experimental examples, and comparative examples of plastic compositions prepared according to the constituent materials and mixing ratios, and can be understood as illustrating the durability against flame of each plastic composition.

[0050] For example, FIG. 1 illustrates the appearance of the material after performing a flame resistance evaluation for Examples 1 and 2 of the present disclosure. Examples 1 and 2 can be understood as flame-retardant plastic compositions having flame resistance and flame resistance according to the present disclosure.

[0051] For example, FIG. 2 illustrates the appearance of the material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation for Experimental Examples 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the present disclosure. Experimental Examples 1 to 4 may be manufactured by changing the composition ratio of the main constituent materials compared to Examples 1 and 2. Experimental Examples 1 to 4 may be understood as plastic compositions in which at least one of flame retardancy or flame resistance is not secured.

[0052] For example, FIG. 3 illustrates the appearance of the material after performing a flame resistance evaluation for Comparative Examples 1 and 2 of the present disclosure. Comparative Examples 1 and 2 may be manufactured by changing the main constituent material and / or the ratio of the main constituent material compared to Example 1 and Example 2. Comparative Examples 1 and 4 may be understood as plastic compositions in which at least one of flame retardancy or flame resistance is not secured.

[0053] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure is a halogen-free composition that does not contain halogen substances, and can limit the generation of harmful substances such as dioxin and / or furan when the composition is burned.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has flame resistance of a predetermined level or higher, thereby reducing damage to the exterior and interior caused by flames.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure is a material applicable when manufacturing parts included in home appliances (e.g., washing machine (400) of FIG. 4, cooking appliance (600) of FIG. 6, indoor unit (800) of FIG. 8, and refrigerator (900) of FIG. 9), and can provide a flame-retardant function of a certain level or higher that can prevent the spread of fire in the event of a fire. For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can be applied to the exterior housing of a control panel included in a home appliance. When a fire occurs on a printed circuit board (PCB) included in the control panel, the exterior housing made of the flame-retardant plastic composition can reduce further spread of the fire and damage.

[0056] The flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure described below can provide flame retardancy while also possessing fire resistance (flame resistance) due to the mixing of component materials in a predetermined compositional ratio. Unless otherwise noted, the numerical limitations of the materials constituting the flame-retardant plastic composition below should be understood as roughly representing the content of each compositional component based on the total weight (100 wt%) of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may comprise a polypropylene-based resin, a phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound, a filler, and other additives in a predetermined ratio.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the polypropylene-based resin may comprise one or more of a propylene homopolymer, an ethylene-propylene random copolymer, and / or an ethylene-propylene block copolymer. For example, the polypropylene-based resin may be composed of any one of a propylene homopolymer, an ethylene-propylene random copolymer, and an ethylene-propylene block copolymer, or may be formed by mixing two or more of a propylene homopolymer, an ethylene-propylene random copolymer, and an ethylene-propylene block copolymer.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the polypropylene-based resin may have a predetermined fluidity. For example, the polypropylene-based resin may have a melt flow index (MFI) of 5 to 50 g / 10 min at 230°C and a 2.16 kg load in accordance with ASTM D1238.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may further include synthetic rubber. The synthetic rubber may be used as an auxiliary resin to improve the impact strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition. The synthetic rubber may be composed in a predetermined ratio with respect to the composition ratio of the polypropylene-based resin.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the synthetic rubber is low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (linear LLDPE), ethylene-alpha-olefin (ethylene-α-olefin) copolymer, propylene-alpha-olefin (propylene-α-olefin) copolymer, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer, ethylene-methyl acrylate (EMA) copolymer, ethylene-ethyl acrylate (EEA), ethylene-butyl acrylate (EBA) styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) rubber, styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene (SEBS) copolymer, ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EDM) rubber, copolymer, and It may include one or more polyolefin elastomers (POE). For example, the synthetic rubber may be composed of a single material among the materials applicable to the synthetic rubber, or may be composed of a mixture of two or more materials.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the polypropylene-based resin may be composed of about 35 to 55 weight percent relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0063] According to one embodiment, when synthetic rubber is added to a polypropylene-based resin to improve the impact strength of a flame-retardant plastic composition, the synthetic rubber may be composed of about 0.1 to 5 weight percent relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the production cost per unit mass of a polypropylene-based resin may be lower than that of a polyester-based resin. Therefore, the production cost of the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure may be lowered, thereby improving productivity.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic material may further include recycled plastic resin. For example, the recycled plastic resin may be obtained from post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the recycled plastic resin may be composed of about 10 to 20 weight percent relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the recycled plastic resin may be composed of polypropylene and polyethylene mixed in a predetermined ratio. For example, the composition ratio of polypropylene and polyethylene may be 1:0.05 to 1:0.2.

[0068] According to one embodiment, a phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound can improve flame retardancy and flame resistance. The phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may include at least one compound among a phosphorus / nitrogen-based material (e.g., a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen) and compounds containing pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based material may be a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen. For example, a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen may include one or more of piperazine pyrophosphate (PPAP), melamine polyphosphate (MPP), ammonium polyphosphate, and alkylamine polyphosphate.

[0070] According to one embodiment, piperazine pyrophosphate has a relatively high melting point of 200°C or higher, so it can maintain a stable polymeric state under high temperature conditions. As a result, piperazine pyrophosphate can be robust under high temperature and high humidity conditions.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may limit the generation of smoke upon ignition by further including at least one compound among compounds containing pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide. The phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may accelerate the formation of char during the combustion of the resin upon ignition by further including at least one compound among compounds containing pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the phosphorus / nitrogen compound may include at least one compound among compounds comprising pyrophoric acid, zinc oxide, or both.

[0073] According to one embodiment, pyrophoric acid and zinc oxide may be composed of 1 to 5 weight percent relative to the total weight of the phosphorus / nitrogen compound.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound can minimize hydrolysis at high temperatures. For example, piperazine pyrophosphate included in the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may have a certain water resistance.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may be composed of about 25 to 35 weight percent relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the filler may include inorganic materials such as glass fiber, talc, wollastonite, calcium carbonate (CaCO3), and magnesium sulfate (MgSO4). For example, the filler may further include feldspar powder, barite, mica, gypsum, or magnesium oxide (MgO).

[0077] According to one embodiment, the filler can improve the flame resistance of the flame-retardant plastic composition. The filler can be added to control the shrinkage rate of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0078] According to one embodiment, when glass fibers are used as the filler, the particle size of the glass fibers can be determined by considering the flame resistance, shrinkage rate, and / or other physical properties of the flame-retardant plastic composition. For example, the average particle size of the glass fibers included in the flame-retardant plastic composition may be 5 to 15 μm (micrometer), and the average length of the glass fibers may be 1 to 16 mm (millimeter). Since the cost of glass fibers having the above particle size is relatively low, the production cost required to produce the flame-retardant plastic composition can be reduced and productivity can be increased.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the glass fiber may be obtained from glass roving, glass chopped strand, and glass milled fiber. For example, the glass fiber may be a glass fiber among glass roving, glass chopped strand, and glass milled fiber having an average particle size of 5 to 15 μm (micrometer) and an average length of 1 to 16 mm.

[0080] According to one embodiment, when glass fibers are used as the filler, the composition ratio of the glass fibers can be determined by considering the flame resistance, shrinkage rate, and / or other physical properties of the flame-retardant plastic composition. For example, if the composition ratio of glass fibers is lower than the appropriate ratio, flame resistance may be reduced. For example, if the composition ratio of glass fibers is higher than the appropriate ratio, flame resistance may be reduced.

[0081] According to one embodiment, glass fibers may constitute 5 to 20 weight percent of the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may further include other additives for improving physical properties. For example, other additives may include heat stabilizers, weather stabilizers, antistatic agents, lubricants, slip agents, nucleating agents, pigments, and dyes.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the other additive may constitute 0.1 to 3 weight percent relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0084] As described above, by controlling the compositional components of the flame-retardant plastic composition, the flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure can achieve the following physical properties.

[0085] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a certain level of flame retardancy. For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a flame retardancy level greater than a certain level based on vertical combustion tests and plate combustion tests. For example, the flame retardancy may be measured by passing the Bar test and Plaque test according to UL94. For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition may be a composition that has passed the Bar test and Plaque test. For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a flame retardancy rating of 1.5T 5VA or higher.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a predetermined impact strength. The impact strength may be measured at room temperature using a 3.2T specimen in accordance with ASTM D256 standards. For example, the impact strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition may be about 1 to 10 kgf·cm / cm. For example, the impact strength may be about 4 to 10 kgf·cm / cm. For example, if the impact strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition is low, cracks may occur on the exterior when applied to home appliances. For example, if the impact strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition is too high, productivity may decrease due to reduced fluidity.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a predetermined tensile strength. For example, the tensile strength may be measured at room temperature at a speed of 50 mm / min in accordance with ASTM D638. For example, the tensile strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition is approximately 150 to 600 kgf / cm² 2 It may be. For example, the tensile strength is about 240 to 280 kgf / cm² 2This may be the case. For example, if the tensile strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition is low, deformation or cracking may occur during the home appliance assembly process. For example, if the tensile strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition is too high, productivity may decrease due to poor fluidity.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a predetermined flexural modulus. For example, the flexural modulus may be measured at room temperature at a rate of 2.8 mm / min in accordance with ASTM D790. For example, the flexural modulus of the flame-retardant plastic composition is approximately 16,000 to 50,000 kgf / cm² 2 It may be. For example, the flexural modulus is about 20,000 to 27,000 kgf / cm 2 It could be.

[0089] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a predetermined melt flow index (MFI). For example, the melt flow index may be measured under conditions of 230°C and 2.16 kg in accordance with ASTM D1238. For example, the melt flow index of the flame-retardant plastic composition may be about 5.0 to 10.0 g / 10 min at 230°C and a 2.16 kg load. For example, if the melt flow index of the flame-retardant plastic material is low, injection molding may become difficult. For example, if the melt flow index of the flame-retardant plastic material is high, tensile strength and impact strength may be inferior.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition may have a predetermined shrinkage rate. The shrinkage rate can be understood as the degree to which the volume shrinks before and after solidification when the injection material solidifies during the process of manufacturing the injection material constituting the flame-retardant plastic composition by a mold device. For example, the shrinkage rate of the flame-retardant plastic composition may be 0.3 to 0.8%.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition has a shrinkage rate substantially the same as that of flame-retardant ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic or high impact polystyrene (HIPS), so that the same manufacturing equipment can be used without changing the existing manufacturing equipment (e.g., mold equipment) and productivity can be improved.

[0092] A method for manufacturing a flame-retardant plastic composition according to one aspect of the present disclosure may be manufactured by mixing a material (e.g., a precursor) included in the flame-retardant plastic composition. The manufacturing method may include, for example, the step of mixing a polypropylene-based resin, a phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound, a filler, and other additives included in the flame-retardant plastic composition, and the step of extruding the mixture.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the step of mixing the precursors is not subject to any particular limitations, but a mechanical shearing method using a twin-screw extruder to knead each precursor may be used. For example, the extrusion step may be performed at approximately 180 to 230°C. For example, if the temperature at which the extrusion step is performed is low, the manufacturing process may be delayed and productivity may decrease. For example, if the temperature at which the extrusion step is performed is too high, there is a high possibility that magnesium hydroxide will decompose. Taking this into consideration, the extrusion step may be performed at approximately 180 to 230°C.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the surface appearance after flame resistance evaluation of a material manufactured with the constituent materials and composition ratios included in a flame-retardant plastic composition is illustrated.

[0095] For example, FIG. 1 illustrates the surface appearance after flame refractory evaluation of plastics composed according to the mixing ratios of Example 1 and Example 2, FIG. 2 illustrates the surface appearance after flame refractory evaluation of plastics composed according to the mixing ratios of Experimental Example 1, Experimental Example 2, Experimental Example 3, and Experimental Example 4, and FIG. 3 illustrates the surface appearance after flame refractory evaluation of plastics composed according to the mixing ratios of Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2. Example 1, Example 2, Experimental Example 1, Experimental Example 2, Experimental Example 3, Experimental Example 4, Comparative Example 1, and Comparative Example 2 can be mixed according to the mixing ratios of each component listed in below, 0.1 parts by weight of an antioxidant are added, and then extruded at 190 to 230°C using a conventional twin-screw extruder to produce a fillet. The above fillet can be defined as having been dried at 75°C for 2 hours, and then injected in a small injection molding machine under conditions of a molding temperature of 190 to 230°C and a mold temperature of 40 to 80°C to produce a specimen.

[0096] Example 1 Example 2 Experimental Example 1 Experimental Example 2 Experimental Example 3 Experimental Example 4 Comparative Example 1 Comparative Example 2 Polypropylene-based resin 474252524237057 Flame retardant ABS 000000720 Phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound 303525303030030 Bromine-based compound 000000250 Glass fiber 1010105151000 Recycled plastic resin 101010101020010 Other additives 33333333

[0097] According to one embodiment, Table 2 below describes the physical properties of a flame-retardant plastic composition, showing whether the composition passed the flame retardancy evaluation, tensile strength, impact strength, flexural modulus, flow index, shrinkage rate, and flame resistance evaluation according to the mixing ratios of the constituent materials shown in Example 1, Example 2, Experimental Example 1, Experimental Example 2, Experimental Example 3, Experimental Example 4, Comparative Example 1, and Comparative Example 2 of Table 1. FIGS. 1 to 3 show the surface appearance after conducting a flame resistance evaluation for the compositions according to the mixing ratios of Example 1, Example 2, Experimental Example 1, Experimental Example 2, Experimental Example 3, Experimental Example 4, Comparative Example 1, and Comparative Example 2 of Table 1. The above flame resistance evaluation can be evaluated by determining whether a hole occurs on the exterior of a specimen and by assessing the exterior condition when a flame of 1000°C or higher is applied to a specimen manufactured with the composition ratio of at a distance of 60 mm from the flame source for 600 seconds. For example, if a hole occurs in the material under the above conditions, it may be defined as having failed the flame resistance evaluation.

[0098] Example 1 Example 2 Experimental Example 1 Experimental Example 2 Experimental Example 3 Experimental Example 4 Comparative Example 1 Comparative Example 2 Flame Retardancy Evaluation Pass / Fail (O / X) OOOXOXXXO Tensile Strength [kgf / cm² 2 ]394374431377432385400220 Impact Strength [kgf·cm / cm] 8.37.38.94.3117.5205 Flexural Modulus [kgf / cm 2 ]33,60038,30031,20026,40037,50032,60020,00015,500 Melt Flow Index [g / 10min]7.86.610.99.46.210.44 Shrinkage Rate [%]0.3-0.70.3-0.70.4-0.80.6-1.00.2-0.60.3-0.70.3-0.71.0-1.3 Flame Resistance Evaluation Passed (O / X (Time to Perforation))OOOX(320s)OOX(19s)X(60s)

[0099] According to one embodiment, whether the flame retardancy test was passed was indicated as 'O' if both the 5VA Bar and Plaque tests were passed according to the UL94 standard. Example 1, Example 2, Experimental Example 2, and Comparative Example 2 passed the flame retardancy test. According to one embodiment, whether the flame resistance evaluation was passed was indicated as 'O' if no perforation occurred on the exterior of the specimen when the specimen and the fire source were separated by a distance of 60 mm and the specimen was heated with a flame of 1000°C or higher for 600 seconds. For example, if perforation occurred on the specimen within 600 seconds, it was indicated as 'X', and the time (unit: seconds) at which perforation occurred immediately after heating was indicated. Figures 1 to 3 can be understood as illustrating the exterior of the material after conducting a flame resistance evaluation on Example 1, Example 2, Experimental Example 1, Experimental Example 2, Experimental Example 3, Experimental Example 4, Comparative Example 1, and Comparative Example 2.

[0100] According to one embodiment, Examples 1 and 2 passed both the flame retardancy evaluation and the flame resistance evaluation. Examples 1 and 2 satisfied suitable physical properties in terms of tensile strength, flexural modulus, impact strength, melt flow index, and shrinkage rate.

[0101] According to one embodiment, Experimental Example 1 did not pass the flame retardancy evaluation. It was confirmed that Experimental Example 1 failed the flame retardancy evaluation because the composition ratio of the phosphorus / nitrogen-based flame retardant was relatively low.

[0102] According to one embodiment, Experimental Example 2 did not pass the flame resistance evaluation. For example, in Experimental Example 2, perforation occurred due to ignition after 320 seconds had elapsed due to the flame. It was confirmed that Experimental Example 2 failed the flame resistance evaluation because the composition ratio of glass fibers was relatively low.

[0103] According to one embodiment, Experimental Example 3 did not pass the flame retardancy evaluation. It was confirmed that Experimental Example 3 failed the flame resistance evaluation due to the relatively high proportion of glass fibers. For example, if the proportion of glass fibers included in a flame-retardant plastic composition exceeds a critical level, it can be confirmed that the glass fibers impair flame retardancy by acting as wicks in the material.

[0104] According to one embodiment, through Experimental Example 2 and Experimental Example 3, by having the glass fiber composition ratio be 5 to 15 weight percent relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, the flame-retardant plastic composition can secure flame retardancy and flame resistance.

[0105] According to one embodiment, it can be confirmed that the shrinkage rate of Experimental Example 2 is relatively high compared to the shrinkage rates of Examples 1 and 2, and the shrinkage rate of Experimental Example 3 is relatively low compared to the shrinkage rates of Examples 1 and 2. Through this, when the composition ratio of glass fibers included in the flame-retardant plastic composition is at an appropriate level, a standard level of shrinkage rate can be secured.

[0106] According to one embodiment, Experimental Example 4 did not pass the flame retardancy evaluation. For example, it can be confirmed that if the composition ratio of recycled plastic resin included in the flame retardant plastic composition exceeds a critical level, it impairs flame retardancy. However, the flame retardancy evaluation of the flame retardant plastic composition may change depending on the composition of the recycled plastic resin and the composition ratio of each component, not limited to what is illustrated.

[0107] According to one embodiment, Comparative Example 1 failed to pass both the flame retardancy evaluation and the flame resistance evaluation. For example, when 19 seconds had elapsed due to the flame, perforation occurred in Comparative Example 1 due to ignition. It can be confirmed that Comparative Example 1 is vulnerable to flame because flame-retardant ABS is applied instead of the polypropylene resin included in the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure, and a brominated flame retardant is applied instead of the phosphorus / nitrogen-based flame retardant included in the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0108] According to one embodiment, Comparative Example 2 passed the flame retardancy evaluation but failed the flame resistance evaluation. For example, when 60 seconds had elapsed due to a flame, perforation occurred in Comparative Example 2 due to ignition. It was confirmed that Comparative Example 2 failed the flame resistance evaluation because, as with Experimental Example 2, the composition ratio of glass fibers was relatively low.

[0109] According to one embodiment, it can be confirmed that the flame retardancy, flame resistance, and other physical properties of the flame-retardant plastic composition differ depending on the constituent materials and composition ratios of the compositions in . Through this, the polypropylene resin, recycled plastic resin, phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound, filler, and other additives included in the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure should be composed in appropriate proportions.

[0110] Hereinafter, in FIG. 4 and below, embodiments in which the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure (e.g., Examples 1 and 2 of Tables 1 and 2) is applicable to home appliances (e.g., washing machine (400) of FIG. 4, cooking appliance (600) of FIG. 6, indoor unit (800) of FIG. 8, and refrigerator (900) of FIG. 9) will be described.

[0111] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition may be applied to a control panel (e.g., control assembly (500) of FIG. 4, control box (700) of FIG. 6, control box (863) of FIG. 8) comprising a circuit board (e.g., control board (520) of FIG. 5, circuit board (750) of FIG. 7, board assembly (950) of FIG. 10). For example, a housing made of the flame-retardant plastic composition may constitute a housing surrounding the circuit board (520; 750; 950). In addition, the flame-retardant plastic composition may constitute components placed near the circuit board (520; 750; 950) and the control panel (500; 700; 863).

[0112] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition can prevent the fire from spreading to the surroundings when a fire occurs on a circuit board (520; 750; 950).

[0113] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the further spread of fire by rapidly forming char upon ignition.

[0114] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the generation of harmful gases during combustion because it does not contain halogen-based materials.

[0115] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can achieve eco-friendly management (e.g., ESG management) by including a predetermined proportion of recycled plastic resin.

[0116] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a shrinkage rate substantially the same as that of flame-retardant ABS or HIPS, so that injection molded products can be produced using existing manufacturing equipment (e.g., molding equipment). As a result, additional costs for manufacturing equipment can be reduced by enabling the production of injection molded products using said flame-retardant plastic composition with existing manufacturing equipment.

[0117] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0118] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a disassembled state of a control assembly (500) included in a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0119] The washing machine (400) illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 may include one or more components made of the flame-retardant material of the present disclosure described in FIGS. 1 to 3 (e.g., Example 1 and Example 2 of Table 1 and Table 2).

[0120] The embodiments of FIGS. 4 and 5 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0121] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the washing machine (400) may include a main body (410) forming an exterior, a tub disposed inside the main body (410), a drum rotatably disposed inside the tub, and a driving motor for driving the drum.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the main body (410) may include a front frame (413) forming the front. An inlet (411) may be formed in the front frame (413) of the main body (410) to allow laundry to be inserted into the interior of the drum (430). The inlet (411) may be opened and closed by a door (412) installed on the front of the main body (410).

[0123] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (400) may include a control assembly (500) configured to display the status of the washing machine (400) to a user or to receive input from the user for operating the washing machine (400). The control assembly (500) may be positioned on the upper part of the front frame (413) of the main body (410).

[0124] According to one embodiment, the control assembly (500) may be configured to be detachable from the front frame (413) of the washing machine (400) in a forward manner. The control assembly (500) may include a control housing (510) detachably mounted on the front frame (413), a control panel (530) detachably mounted on the control housing (510), and a control board (520) accommodated between the control housing (510) and the control panel (530).

[0125] According to one embodiment, the front frame (413) may include a detergent container passing section (419) through which a detergent container (452) passes. The control housing (510) may include a detergent container mounting section (519) to which the detergent container (452) is mounted. The detergent container mounting section (519) may be provided to correspond to the detergent container passing section (419).

[0126] According to one embodiment, the control housing (510) may be coupled to the front frame (413) along the front-rear direction. The front frame (413) may include a cabinet fixing part (414). The control housing (510) may include a housing fixing part (514) provided to correspond to the cabinet fixing part (414).

[0127] According to one embodiment, the control housing (510) can be fixed to the front frame (413) by a frame fixing member (106) penetrating the housing fixing part (514) and the cabinet fixing part (414), while the housing fixing part (514) is positioned on the front frame (413) so as to be aligned with the cabinet fixing part (414).

[0128] According to one embodiment, the control housing (510) is fixed to the main body (410) through a connection in the front-rear direction with the main body (410). The control housing (510) is not connected in the up-down direction with the top cover (418) of the main body (410). The control housing (510) is not connected in the up-down direction with the front frame (413) of the main body (410). Therefore, the control assembly (500) can be separated from the main body (410) without separating the top cover (418) of the main body (410).

[0129] According to one embodiment, a control board (520) may be accommodated between a control housing (510) mounted on a front frame (413) and a control panel (530). The control board (520) may be fixed to the control panel (530). The control panel (530) may include a board fixing portion (536) formed on the back surface to fix the control board (520). The board fixing portion (536) may be hook-coupled to a portion of the edge of the control board (520). Alternatively, the control board (520) may be fixed to the control housing (510). The control board (520) may be coupled to the control housing (510) and / or the control panel (530) along the front-rear direction.

[0130] According to one embodiment, the control board (520) may include a printed circuit board (PCB). The control board (520) may be configured to control the washing machine (400).

[0131] According to one embodiment, the control assembly (500) may include an operating part (501) provided to be operable by a user. The operating part (501) may be implemented as a knob, a dial button, or a wheel button. The operating part (501) may penetrate the control panel (530). The operating part (501) may be positioned to be rotatable with respect to the control panel (530). The operating part (501) may be coupled to a control board (520).

[0132] According to one embodiment, the control panel (530) may include a display that displays the operating status or information of the washing machine (400).

[0133] According to one embodiment, at least some of the components included in the control box (500) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic of the present disclosure (e.g., flame-retardant plastic made of the flame-retardant plastic compositions of Tables 1 and 2). For example, the control housing (510) and the control panel (530) included in the control box (500) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic composition. For example, some of the components included in the control substrate (520) may be made of the plastic composition.

[0134] According to one embodiment, a component positioned near the control box (500) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure. For example, the front frame (413) and the top cover (418) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic composition. However, not limited thereto, at least some of the parts made of plastic material among the parts included in the washing machine (400) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the control housing (510) and control panel (530) included in the control box (500) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0136] For example, the control housing (510) and the control panel (530) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic having a certain level of flame retardancy and fire resistance. As a result, when a fire occurs in the control board (520), the spread of the fire originating from the control board (520) to the surroundings can be limited.

[0137] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the further spread of fire by rapidly forming char upon ignition.

[0138] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure may limit the generation of harmful gases upon combustion because it does not contain halogen-based materials.

[0139] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can achieve eco-friendly management (e.g., ESG management) by including a predetermined proportion of recycled plastic resin.

[0140] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a shrinkage rate substantially the same as that of flame-retardant ABS or HIPS, so that injection molded products can be produced using existing manufacturing equipment (e.g., molding equipment). As a result, additional costs for manufacturing equipment can be reduced by enabling the production of injection molded products using said flame-retardant plastic composition with existing manufacturing equipment.

[0141] According to one embodiment, since the flame-retardant plastic composition has a predetermined level of flowability in a molten state, productivity can be improved when the flame-retardant plastic composition is injected by a mold device.

[0142] According to one embodiment, the washing machine (400) of FIGS. 4 and 5 may be implemented as a dryer or a garment care device. When the washing machine (400) of FIGS. 4 and 5 is implemented as a dryer, the dryer may include a heat pump (not shown) that supplies drying air into the drum (430). The heat pump may include an evaporator, a condenser, a compressor, and an expansion device. The compressor compresses the refrigerant to a high temperature and high pressure state and discharges it, and the discharged refrigerant may flow into the condenser. The condenser condenses the compressed refrigerant and may release heat to the surroundings through the condensation process. The expansion valve may expand the refrigerant in a high temperature and high pressure state condensed in the condenser to a low pressure state. The evaporator evaporates the expanded refrigerant and may remove heat from the surroundings through the evaporation process. For example, the heat pump may further include a heater configured to heat the drying air.

[0143] According to one embodiment, the heat pump can be mounted on a base located at the bottom of the dryer.

[0144] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cooking device (600) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view showing a control box (700) included in a cooking appliance (600) in disassembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0146] Some of the configurations shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 can be understood as being shown through the parts included in the cooking appliance (600).

[0147] The embodiments of FIGS. 6 and 7 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0148] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the cooking appliance (600) may be provided as a range hood combined with a microwave oven (OTR). The cooking appliance (600) will be described below.

[0149] According to one embodiment, the cooking device (600) may include a main body (610) and a door (620) coupled to the front of the main body (610). The cooking device (600) may include a control box (700) that can be detachably mounted to the front of the main body (610).

[0150] According to one embodiment, the main body (610) may include an outer housing (611) and an inner housing (612) provided inside the outer housing (611). A cooking chamber (630) and an electrical chamber may be arranged inside the inner housing (612). The cooking chamber (630) and the electrical chamber may be arranged to be partitioned from each other.

[0151] According to one embodiment, the door (620) may be provided to open and close the cooking chamber (630). The door (620) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (610). A user may open and close the door (620) through a handle portion formed between the control box (700) and the door (620). The rear portion of the door (620) may be recessed to cover the front of the control box (700).

[0152] According to one embodiment, the cooking device (600) may include a control box (700) that can be detachably mounted on the front of the main body (610). The front of the control box (700) may be covered by a door (620). More specifically, the control box (700) may be coupled to the main body (610) so as to be positioned between the door (620) and the main body (610).

[0153] According to one embodiment, the main body (610) may include a front plate (680). The front plate (680) may be positioned in front of the cooking chamber (630). The front plate (680) may be positioned in front of the electrical room (60). The front plate (680) may include a first opening (680a) communicating with the cooking chamber (630) and a second opening (680b) communicating with the electrical room (60). The second opening (680b) may be referred to as a front opening (80b).

[0154] According to one embodiment, the front plate (680) may include a latch insertion portion (680c) into which a latch protrusion (621) of the door (620) is inserted. For example, the latch insertion portion (680c) may be provided between the first opening (680a) and the second opening (680b). The latch protrusion (621) may be inserted into the main body (610) through the latch insertion portion (680c) and locked by the latch body (22). With the latch protrusion (621) locked to the latch body (22), the door (620) may be maintained in a state that closes the cooking chamber (630).

[0155] According to one embodiment, the front plate (680) may include a plate hole (683). The plate hole (683) may be in communication with the control box (700). The plate hole (683) may be in communication with the electrical room (60). The plate hole (683) may guide air flowing in from the inlet panel (720) of the control box (700) into the electrical room (60). The plate hole (683) may be referred to as a guide hole.

[0156] According to one embodiment, the control box (700) may be provided to control the operation of the cooking device (600). The control box (700) may control various electrical components placed in the electrical room.

[0157] According to one embodiment, the control box (700) may include a case (710) and an inlet panel (720) coupled to the top of the case (710). The control box (700) may further include a bracket panel (730), a guide member (740), and a circuit board (750).

[0158] According to one embodiment, the case (710) can accommodate a bracket panel (730), a guide member (740), and a circuit board (750). The case (710) can accommodate a bracket panel (730), a guide member (740), and a circuit board (750). The case (710) can be arranged to form the exterior of a control box (700).

[0159] According to one embodiment, the case (710) may include an opening (710a) with an open top. An inlet panel (720) may be positioned to cover the opening (710a).

[0160] According to one embodiment, an inlet panel (720) may be provided on the upper part of the case (710). The inlet panel (720) may be provided to cover the opening (710a). The inlet panel (720) may be provided to cover a part of the guide member (740) and the main body (610). For example, the inlet panel (720) may prevent the plate hole (683) formed in the front plate (680) from being exposed to the outside.

[0161] According to one embodiment, the inlet panel (720) may be detachably coupled to the upper part of the case (710). For example, the case (710) may be screw-coupled to the inlet panel (720). However, this is merely exemplary, and various coupling methods may be applied. For example, the inlet panel (720) may be formed integrally with the case (710).

[0162] According to one embodiment, the inlet panel (720) may be in communication with the outside. For example, the inlet panel (720) may include an inlet hole (721) through which air is introduced from the outside to cool the electrical room. The inlet hole (721) may be referred to as a first cooling air inlet.

[0163] According to one embodiment, air introduced through the inlet hole (721) can be introduced into the electrical room (60) through the plate hole (683) formed in the front plate (680). The plate hole (683) may be referred to as a second cooling air inlet.

[0164] According to one embodiment, air introduced into the electrical room can cool the electrical room. As a result, the temperature of various electrical components placed in the electrical room can be lowered, and the stability of the electrical components can be enhanced.

[0165] According to one embodiment, the bracket panel (730) may be accommodated inside the case (710). The bracket panel (730) may be formed to accommodate a circuit board (750). For example, the bracket panel (730) may include a shape with an open rear end to form a space for accommodating the circuit board (750).

[0166] According to one embodiment, a guide member (740) may be detachably coupled to the upper portion of a bracket panel (730). For example, the bracket panel (730) may include a coupling portion (731) extending toward the guide member (740), and the coupling portion (731) may be screw-coupled to the guide member (740). However, this is merely illustrative, and various coupling methods may be applied. For example, the bracket panel (730) may be formed integrally with the guide member (740).

[0167] According to one embodiment, the bracket panel (730) may be spaced apart from the case (710). For example, the front (730a) of the bracket panel (730) may be spaced apart from the rear (110b) of the case (710). Thus, a space through which moisture can flow may be formed between the bracket panel (730) and the case (710).

[0168] According to one embodiment, the guide member (740) may be accommodated inside the case (710). The guide member (740) may be positioned on the lower side of the inlet panel (720). The guide member (740) may be positioned on the upper side of the bracket panel (730). The guide member (740) may be detachably coupled to the upper side of the bracket panel (730).

[0169] According to one embodiment, the guide member (740) can guide moisture flowing into the control box (700). For example, the guide member (740) may include a shape that slopes downward toward the front to smoothly guide the moisture forward.

[0170] According to one embodiment, the case (710), inlet panel (720), bracket panel (730), and guide member (740) are shown as being formed as separate components and assembled, but are not limited thereto, and the case (710), inlet panel (720), bracket panel (730), and guide member (740) may be formed integrally. For example, only some of the components of the case (710), inlet panel (720), bracket panel (730), or guide member (740) may be formed integrally.

[0171] According to one embodiment, the circuit board (750) may be accommodated in the bracket panel (730). Various electronic components, etc., may be mounted or connected to the circuit board (750). At least some of the components accommodated inside the main body (610) may be electrically connected to the circuit board (750). For example, electrical components placed in the electrical room may be electrically connected to the circuit board (750). For such connection, a front opening (680b) may be provided in the front plate (680). Additionally, access to the interior of the electrical room may be possible through the front opening (680b).

[0172] According to one embodiment, at least some of the components included in the control box (700) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic of the present disclosure (e.g., flame-retardant plastic made of the flame-retardant plastic compositions of Tables 1 and 2). For example, at least one of the case (710), inlet panel (720), bracket panel (730), and guide member (740) included in the control box (700) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic composition. For example, some of the components included in the circuit board (750) may be made of the plastic composition.

[0173] According to one embodiment, a component positioned near the control box (700) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure. For example, the main body (610) and the door (620) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0174] For example, the case (710), inlet panel (720), bracket panel (730), and guide member (740) may be manufactured from the flame-retardant plastic having a predetermined level of flame retardancy and flame resistance. As a result, when a fire occurs on the circuit board (750), the spread of the fire originating from the circuit board (750) to the surroundings can be limited.

[0175] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the further spread of fire by rapidly forming char upon ignition.

[0176] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure may limit the generation of harmful gases upon combustion because it does not contain halogen-based materials.

[0177] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can achieve eco-friendly management (e.g., ESG management) by including a predetermined proportion of recycled plastic resin.

[0178] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a shrinkage rate substantially the same as that of flame-retardant ABS or HIPS, so that injection molded products can be produced using existing manufacturing equipment (e.g., molding equipment). As a result, additional costs for manufacturing equipment can be reduced by enabling the production of injection molded products using said flame-retardant plastic composition with existing manufacturing equipment.

[0179] According to one embodiment, since the flame-retardant plastic composition has a predetermined level of flowability in a molten state, productivity can be improved when the flame-retardant plastic composition is injected by a mold device.

[0180] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an indoor unit (800) included in an air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0181] The embodiment of FIG. 8 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIG. 1 to 3.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 8, the air conditioner can be implemented as a multi-type air conditioner capable of performing cooling operation and heating operation. For example, the air conditioner is a device capable of both cooling operation for cooling multiple air-conditioned spaces and heating operation for heating multiple air-conditioned spaces. The air conditioner may include at least one outdoor unit and multiple indoor units (800).

[0183] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit may include a compressor, an outdoor heat exchanger, an expansion valve, an outdoor fan, a first detection unit, a four-way valve, an accumulator, and an oil separator.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the compressor may be configured to compress the refrigerant and discharge the compressed high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant. For example, during cooling operation, the compressor may discharge the high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous refrigerant to an outdoor heat exchanger.

[0185] According to one embodiment, an outdoor heat exchanger may be configured to perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and the outdoor air. For example, during cooling operation, the outdoor heat exchanger may condense the refrigerant introduced from the compressor through heat release. At this time, the refrigerant in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state may undergo a phase transition into a refrigerant in a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid state.

[0186] According to one embodiment, the expansion valve may include a first expansion valve and a second expansion valve. For example, the first expansion valve and the second expansion valve may distribute refrigerant supplied from an outdoor heat exchanger through a first distribution pipe to supply it to a first indoor unit and a second indoor unit, respectively. For example, the first expansion valve and the second expansion valve may perform the function of a flow control valve capable of controlling the opening degree to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant supplied to the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit. The first expansion valve may be connected between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger of the first indoor unit to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant supplied to the first indoor unit, and the second expansion valve may be connected between the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger of the second indoor unit to regulate the flow rate of refrigerant supplied to the second indoor unit.

[0187] According to one embodiment, during cooling operation, the expansion valve can lower the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant introduced from the outdoor heat exchanger. For example, the refrigerant passing through the expansion valve can change from a high-temperature, high-pressure liquid state to a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid state. The expansion action of the expansion valve can facilitate the evaporation of the refrigerant in the heat exchanger of the indoor unit (800). For example, the refrigerant with lowered pressure and temperature can be delivered to the indoor heat exchanger. For example, the expansion valve may be implemented as a capillary tube.

[0188] According to one embodiment, an outdoor fan is provided on one side of an outdoor heat exchanger and may be configured to rotate by a fan motor to forcibly blow air around the outdoor heat exchanger to assist in heat exchange.

[0189] According to one embodiment, the first detection unit may include a first temperature detection unit for detecting the temperature of an outdoor heat exchanger and a second temperature detection unit for detecting the outdoor temperature around the outdoor unit. Here, the first temperature detection unit may be positioned on the output side of the outdoor heat exchanger, on the input side of the outdoor heat exchanger, or in the middle of the outdoor heat exchanger.

[0190] According to one embodiment, the outdoor unit may further include a second distribution pipe that collects the refrigerant supplied from each indoor unit (800) and supplies it to the compressor.

[0191] According to one embodiment, the four-way valve is a flow path switching valve that switches the direction of refrigerant flow depending on cooling operation or heating operation. For example, during heating operation, the four-way valve can guide high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor to the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit, and guide low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant from the outdoor heat exchanger to the accumulator. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger performs the function of an evaporator, and the first indoor heat exchanger of the first indoor unit and the second indoor heat exchanger of the second indoor unit perform the function of a condenser.

[0192] According to one embodiment, the four-way valve can guide the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor during cooling operation to the outdoor heat exchanger and guide the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant of the first and second indoor units to the accumulator. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger can perform the function of a condenser, and the first and second indoor units can perform the function of an evaporator.

[0193] According to one embodiment, the accumulator is positioned on the suction side of the compressor to separate unvaporized liquid refrigerant from the refrigerant flowing from the indoor unit (800) to the compressor, thereby limiting the discharge of liquid refrigerant to the compressor. By doing so, the accumulator can protect the compressor from damage.

[0194] According to one embodiment, the oil separator can separate oil mixed in the vapor of the discharged refrigerant of the compressor and recover it to the compressor. This prevents the formation of an oil film on the surfaces of the outdoor heat exchanger and the indoor heat exchanger, which reduces the heat transfer effect, and prevents a lack of lubricating oil within the compressor, which reduces the lubrication performance.

[0195] According to one embodiment, the indoor unit (800) may be provided in multiple numbers. When the indoor unit (800) is provided in multiple numbers, the indoor unit (800) may be placed in each air conditioning space.

[0196] According to one embodiment, the air conditioner may further include a connecting valve connecting the refrigerant pipe of the outdoor unit and the refrigerant pipe of the first indoor unit and the second indoor unit.

[0197] According to one embodiment, the indoor unit (800) may each include an indoor heat exchanger (830), a blower fan (821), an auxiliary fan, and a plurality of temperature detection units.

[0198] According to one embodiment, the indoor heat exchanger (830) is placed in each air-conditioned space. During cooling operation, the indoor heat exchanger (830) may be configured to perform heat exchange with the air in the air-conditioned space through heat absorption by the evaporation of the refrigerant flowing in from the first and second expansion valves. At this time, the refrigerant in a low-temperature, low-pressure liquid state may be phase-converted into a refrigerant in a low-temperature, low-pressure gaseous state.

[0199] According to one embodiment, the blower fan (821) may be located inside the indoor heat exchanger (830). The blower fan (821) may rotate by a first motor to draw in air from the air-conditioned space and force-blow the air that has been heat-exchanged in the indoor heat exchanger (830) into the air-conditioned space.

[0200] According to one embodiment, an auxiliary fan is located inside an indoor heat exchanger (830). The auxiliary fan rotates by a second motor and can control the direction of the airflow discharged into the air conditioning space by sucking in a portion of the air discharged into the air conditioning space.

[0201] According to one embodiment, the second detection unit may include a third temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of a refrigerant pipe connected to the inlet of the indoor heat exchanger (830) among the refrigerant pipes connected to the indoor heat exchanger (830), a fourth temperature detection unit that detects the temperature of a refrigerant pipe connected to the outlet of the indoor heat exchanger (830) among the refrigerant pipes connected to the indoor heat exchanger (830), and a fifth temperature detection unit provided inside the indoor unit (800) that detects the temperature of the air conditioning space. Here, the temperatures of the inlet and outlet of the indoor heat exchanger (830) detected by the third temperature detection unit and the fourth temperature detection unit may be used for superheat control or supercooling control.

[0202] According to one embodiment, during heating operation, the air conditioner can switch the flow path of the four-way valve to guide the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor to the indoor heat exchanger (830) and guide the low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant of the indoor unit (800) to the accumulator. At this time, the outdoor heat exchanger can perform the function of an evaporator, and the indoor heat exchanger (830) can perform the function of a condenser.

[0203] According to one embodiment, the indoor unit (800) may be installed so that a portion of it is drawn into the interior of the ceiling (801). The indoor unit (800) may be referred to as a ceiling-type air conditioner.

[0204] According to one embodiment, a ceiling-type air conditioner may include a box-shaped casing (810) that is open at the bottom and has a blower (820) and a heat exchanger (830) inside that enters the ceiling (801), a drain member (840) that collects condensate from the heat exchanger (830) and discharges it to the outside and is coupled to the bottom of the casing (810), and a ceiling panel (870) that is coupled to the drain member (840) and covers an opening (801a) of the ceiling (801).

[0205] According to one embodiment, the casing (810) is formed in a roughly hollow, enclosure shape to accommodate a blower (820) and a heat exchanger (830), and an insulating member (811) made of expanded polystyrene may be attached to the inner surface of the casing (810) for insulation. An adhesive may be used for attaching the insulating member (811).

[0206] According to one embodiment, a blower (820) positioned on the central side to provide forced airflow and a heat exchanger (830) positioned on the radial outer side of the blower (820) to heat exchange the air introduced into the casing (810) by the blower (820) may be positioned.

[0207] According to one embodiment, the blower device (820) includes a blower fan (821) that sucks in air from below and discharges it radially, and a drive motor (822) that drives the blower fan (821), and the drive motor (822) can be fixed to the inner upper surface of the casing (810).

[0208] According to one embodiment, the heat exchanger (830) is positioned around the blower fan (821) to surround the blower fan (821) and can perform heat exchange with the air discharged from the blower fan (821).

[0209] According to one embodiment, the drain member (840) may include a drain tray (850) disposed at the bottom of the heat exchanger (830) to collect and discharge condensate generated during the heat exchange process, a cold air passage (851) formed on the outside of the drain tray (850) to guide the heat-exchanged cold air to a discharge section (872), and a partition section (860) formed on the inside of the drain tray (850) to partition the space inside the casing (810) into a blower area and an external area.

[0210] According to one embodiment, the drain tray (850) supports the lower part of the heat exchanger (830) and may be formed in a groove shape so that condensation occurring on the outer surface of the heat exchanger (830) can flow down and collect.

[0211] According to one embodiment, the partition (860) is formed in the shape of a flat plate having an opening (861) in the center, and the opening (861) of the partition (860) may be formed larger than the outer diameter of the blower fan (821) so that the blower fan (821) can pass through. This is formed so that the blower fan (821) can be easily separated through the opening (861) when the blower fan (821) is to be separated for repairing a malfunction of the drive motor (822), etc. For example, the blower fan (821) can be separated without separating the partition (860). The partition (860) may be formed integrally with the drain tray (850), or the partition (860) and the drain tray (850) may be provided as separate members so that the edge of the partition (860) is connected to the inner circumference of the drain member (840).

[0212] According to one embodiment, the cold air passage (851) is formed at a position corresponding to the discharge section (872) so as to communicate with the discharge section (872) of the ceiling panel (1700) described later, on the outside of the drain tray (850). Accordingly, the widthwise spacing of the cold air passage (851) can be formed to be the same as or smaller than the widthwise spacing of the corresponding discharge section (872).

[0213] According to one embodiment, however, the longitudinal (L) spacing of the cold air passage (81) may be formed shorter than the longitudinal spacing of the ceiling panel (870) discharge section (872). For example, a drain member (840) installed inside the discharge section (872) can restrict the parts inside the casing (810) from being exposed to the outside through the discharge section (872) by covering the refrigerant piping and other parts (not shown) installed inside the ceiling panel (870).

[0214] According to one embodiment, a bell mouth member (862) may be disposed at the lower part of the partition (860). The bell mouth member (862) may form a central opening (862a) through which intake air passes, and an air guide surface (862b) formed in a curved shape toward the opening (862a). The periphery of the bell mouth member (862) may be detachably coupled toward the opening (861) of the partition (860). This bell mouth member (862) can guide air introduced through the intake port (871) of the ceiling panel (870) toward the intake side of the blower fan (821).

[0215] According to one embodiment, the lower surface of the drain member (840) may be supported by the upper surface of the ceiling panel (870). For example, the ceiling panel (870) may be connected to the drain member (840) while the bell mouth member (862) and the control box (863) are connected to the drain member (840).

[0216] According to one embodiment, the ceiling panel (870) may have an intake port (871) formed in the center for inhaling indoor air, and a plurality of discharge ports (872) may be formed on the outer side of the intake port (871). The plurality of discharge ports (872) may be formed at a position corresponding to the cold air flow path (851) of the drain member (840).

[0217] According to one embodiment, a filter (871) for filtering air flowing into the intake port (871) may be disposed in the intake port (871) of the ceiling panel (870). For example, a blade (873) that guides the discharged air while rotating over a predetermined distance may be installed in each discharge port (872). The blade (873) may be operated by a motor that rotates in the forward and reverse directions.

[0218] According to one embodiment, the discharge section (872) may be formed in the same shape at four locations on all sides of the ceiling panel (870). The discharge section (872) may be provided in the form of a channel extending in the length direction, width direction, and thickness direction to have a rectangular cross-section.

[0219] According to one embodiment, a control box (863) containing a plurality of electrical components for controlling the operation of an air conditioner may be disposed on one side of the lower surface of the compartment (860). The control box (863) may be fixed to the lower surface of the compartment (860) adjacent to the drain tray (850).

[0220] According to one embodiment, the control box (863) may include a circuit board and a housing positioned to surround the circuit board.

[0221] According to one embodiment, the housing of the control box (863) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic of the present disclosure (e.g., flame-retardant plastic made from the flame-retardant plastic compositions of Tables 1 and 2). For example, some components included in the electrical components and / or circuit board placed inside the housing of the control box (863) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic. In addition, components included in the indoor unit (800) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic.

[0222] According to one embodiment, the outer housing of the control box (863) and the electrical components placed inside the outer housing are made of flame-retardant plastic, so that when a fire occurs on the circuit board inside the control box (863), the spread of the fire to the surroundings can be limited.

[0223] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the further spread of fire by rapidly forming char upon ignition.

[0224] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure may limit the generation of harmful gases upon combustion because it does not contain halogen-based materials.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can achieve eco-friendly management (e.g., ESG management) by including a predetermined proportion of recycled plastic resin.

[0226] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a shrinkage rate substantially the same as that of flame-retardant ABS or HIPS, so that injection molded products can be produced using existing manufacturing equipment (e.g., molding equipment). As a result, additional costs for manufacturing equipment can be reduced by enabling the production of injection molded products using said flame-retardant plastic composition with existing manufacturing equipment.

[0227] According to one embodiment, since the flame-retardant plastic composition has a predetermined level of flowability in a molten state, productivity can be improved when the flame-retardant plastic composition is injected by a mold device.

[0228] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a refrigerator (900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0229] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view showing a substrate assembly (panel assembly) (950) included in a refrigerator (900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0230] The embodiments of FIGS. 9 and 10 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 3.

[0231] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the refrigerator (900) may include a main body (910) that forms the overall exterior. A substrate assembly (950) and / or a cover case (1000) may be disposed on the upper surface of the main body (910). For example, a substrate assembly (950) and / or a cover case (1000) may be disposed on the outer side (911a) of the upper surface of the main body (910). The main body (910) may include an outer surface (911) and an inner surface (912). The outer surface (911) may form the exterior of the refrigerator (900). The outer surface (911) may be formed in a roughly rectangular shape. The outer surface (911) may include an upper surface (911a), a side surface (911b), a rear surface, and a lower surface. A substrate assembly (950) and / or a cover case (1000) may be disposed on the outer surface (911). For example, a cover case (1000) may be provided on the upper outer wall surface (911a) of the external body to cover a substrate assembly (950). The upper surface (911a) of the main body (910) may be the upper outer wall surface (911a) of the external body. However, the placement or location of the cover case (1000) and the substrate assembly (950) is not limited to the above-described example and may be provided at various locations, such as the lower wall or the outer surface of the external body (911).

[0232] According to one embodiment, an inner chamber (912) may be provided inside the outer chamber (911). The inner chamber (912) may form a storage chamber (30). The inner chamber (912) may be formed in a roughly rectangular shape.

[0233] According to one embodiment, the storage room (930) may include a first storage room (931) and a second storage room (932). The first storage room (931) may be a refrigerator room (931), and the second storage room (932) may be a freezer room (932). The refrigerator room (931) may be provided above the freezer room (932). However, it is not limited thereto, and the refrigerator room (931) may be provided below the freezer room (932). The storage room (930) may form a space for storing food inside.

[0234] According to one embodiment, the storage room (930) may include a first storage room (931) and a second storage room (932). The first storage room (931) may be a refrigerator room (931), and the second storage room (932) may be a freezer room (932). The refrigerator room (931) may be provided above the freezer room (932). However, it is not limited thereto, and the refrigerator room (931) may be provided below the freezer room (932). Food may be stored in the storage room (930).

[0235] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may include a storage container (933) and a shelf (934). The storage container (933) and the shelf (934) may be placed within the storage room (930). Food may be placed on the shelf (934), and food may be stored in the storage container (933). The number or shape of the shelf (934) and the storage container (933) is not limited to the example shown in the drawing.

[0236] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may include a door (920). The door (920) may be rotatably coupled to the main body (910) to open and close the storage compartment (930). The door (920) may include a first door (921) for opening and closing the first storage compartment (931) and a second door (922) for opening and closing the second storage compartment (932). Although only two doors (920) are shown, they are not limited thereto and may be provided as four or one.

[0237] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may further include a door shelf (923). The door shelf (923) may be attached to the door (920). The door shelf (923) may be attached to the door (920) on the inside of the door (920). A storage space (923a) for storing food may be provided within the door shelf (923). The door shelf (923) may protrude into the inside of the storage room (930) when the door (920) closes the storage room (930).

[0238] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may further include a hinge (940) and a hinge mounting plate (960).

[0239] According to one embodiment, the hinge (940) can connect the door (920) to one side of the main body (910). The hinge (940) can allow the door (920) to rotate on the main body (910). The hinge (940) may include a hinge shaft (941) and a hinge connecting plate (942). A portion of the hinge shaft (941) may be inserted into the door. Additionally, a portion of the hinge shaft (941) may be inserted into the hinge connecting plate (942). The hinge connecting plate (942) may be connected to a hinge mounting plate (960). The hinge connecting plate (942) may be connected to the front surface of the hinge mounting plate (960) so that the hinge (940) is connected to the main body (910).

[0240] According to one embodiment, the hinge mounting plate (960) may allow the hinge (940) to be mounted on the main body (910). The hinge mounting plate (960) may be coupled to the main body (910). For example, the hinge mounting plate (960) may be coupled to the upper outer side (911a) of the main body (910). The hinge mounting plate (960) may be provided in multiple numbers. Accordingly, the hinge (940) and the door (920) may be coupled at one end along the d1 direction (or -d1 direction) of the main body (910). However, the number of hinge mounting plates (960) is not limited to that shown in the drawings.

[0241] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may include a guide plate (913) and a wire (914).

[0242] According to one embodiment, the guide plate (913) may be coupled to the upper outer surface (911a) of the outer wall of the outer surface (911). The guide plate (913) may include a wire hole (913a) for guiding a wire (914).

[0243] According to one embodiment, the wire (914) may penetrate the wire hole (913a) and / or the upper surface of the main body (910). For example, the wire (914) may penetrate the upper surface of the outer surface (911) and the inner surface (912). The wire (914) may be electrically connected to various devices (e.g., electrical components) provided inside the main body (910). For example, the wire (914) may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (970) placed on the outer surface (911a) of the upper wall of the outer surface. The guide plate (913) may be placed on the rear side of the board assembly (950).

[0244] According to one embodiment, the wire (914) may be provided in multiple numbers. The multiple wires (914) may include a first wire (914a) and a second wire (914b). For example, the first wire (914a) may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (970) to control a device inside the main body (910), and the second wire (914b) may be electrically connected to a printed circuit board (970) to supply power to a device inside the main body (910). However, the functions of the first wire (914a) and the second wire (914b) are not limited to the above-described examples.

[0245] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may further include a substrate assembly (950). The substrate assembly (950) may be placed on the upper wall outer surface (911a) of the outer surface. For example, the substrate assembly (950) may be placed on the outer upper surface (911a) of the outer surface. The substrate assembly (950) may accommodate a printed circuit board (970). For example, a printed circuit board (970) with an electrical component (971) mounted thereon may be placed inside the substrate assembly (950). The substrate assembly (950) may be moved along the front-rear direction on the upper wall outer surface (911a) of the outer surface (911).

[0246] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may further include a cover case (1000). The cover case (1000) may guide the movement or position of the substrate assembly (950) along the front-rear direction of the main body (910). For example, the substrate assembly (950) may be inserted into or withdrawn from the cover case (1000) along the front-rear direction of the outer body (911). The cover case (1000) may include an upper case (1010) and a lower case (1020).

[0247] According to one embodiment, the upper case (1010) may be positioned to cover the lower case (1020) from above. For example, the upper case (1010) may be positioned to cover a guide plate (913) in which a wire hole (913a) is formed. Since the upper case (1010) covers both the lower case (1020) and the guide plate (913), the lower case (1020), the substrate assembly (950), the wire (914), and the guide plate (913) may not be visible from the outside of the refrigerator (900). Thus, the aesthetic appeal of the refrigerator's exterior can be enhanced. However, it is also possible to omit the upper case (1010).

[0248] According to one embodiment, the lower case (1020) may be coupled to the upper outer surface (911a) of the outer wall of the outer case. The lower case (1020) may accommodate a substrate assembly (950) inside it. The lower case (1020) may be positioned below the upper case (1010). For example, the lower case (1020) may be positioned between the upper case (1010) and the outer upper surface (911a) of the outer case along the d3 direction (e.g., the height direction or vertical direction of the refrigerator (900). The lower case (1020) may be positioned on the front side of the wire hole (913a). The lower case (1020) may be positioned behind the display (990). For example, the lower case (1020) may be positioned between the display (100) and the wire hole (913a) along the d2 direction (e.g., the front-back direction of the refrigerator (900). The lower case (1020) can be attached to the upper outer wall surface (911a) of the external (911).

[0249] According to one embodiment, the refrigerator (900) may further include a display (990). The display (990) may display the operating status of the refrigerator. For example, the display (100) may display the temperature inside the storage compartment, etc. However, the function of the display (990) is not limited to the above-described example. The display (990) may cover the front of the cover case (1000). Therefore, the cover case (1000) and the substrate assembly (950) may not be exposed when viewed from the front side of the main body (910). However, the display (990) may be omitted. The display (990) may be coupled to the main body (910). For example, the display (100) may be coupled to a hinge mounting plate (960) to cover the front of the cover case (1000) and the substrate assembly (950). The display (990) may include a display portion (991) and a coupling portion (992). The display portion (991) may display the operating status of the refrigerator, and the connecting portion (992) may be connected to the hinge mounting plate (960). The display portion (991) may be provided between the connecting portions (992). The connecting portions (992) may be provided on both sides of the display portion (991).

[0250] According to one embodiment, the parts constituting the refrigerator (900) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic of the present disclosure (e.g., flame-retardant plastic made from the flame-retardant plastic compositions of Tables 1 and 2). For example, the upper case (1010) and lower case (1020) included in the main body (910) and cover case (1000) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic. For example, in addition, the exterior parts and interior parts constituting the refrigerator (900) may be made of the flame-retardant plastic.

[0251] According to one embodiment, since the parts included in the refrigerator (900) are made of the flame-retardant plastic, when a fire occurs in the substrate assembly (950) placed inside the cover case (1000), the spread of the fire originating from the control module to the surroundings can be limited.

[0252] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the further spread of fire by rapidly forming char upon ignition.

[0253] For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure may limit the generation of harmful gases upon combustion because it does not contain halogen-based materials.

[0254] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can achieve eco-friendly management (e.g., ESG management) by including a predetermined proportion of recycled plastic resin.

[0255] According to one embodiment, the flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a shrinkage rate substantially the same as that of flame-retardant ABS or HIPS, so that injection molded products can be produced using existing manufacturing equipment (e.g., molding equipment). As a result, additional costs for manufacturing equipment can be reduced by enabling the production of injection molded products using said flame-retardant plastic composition with existing manufacturing equipment.

[0256] According to one embodiment, since the flame-retardant plastic composition has a predetermined level of flowability in a molten state, productivity can be improved when the flame-retardant plastic composition is injected by a mold device.

[0257] A flame-retardant plastic composition according to one embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a material applicable to the exterior and interior parts of a home appliance. For example, the flame-retardant plastic composition may be applied to a housing positioned to surround a circuit board of a control box included in a home appliance.

[0258] The flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a predetermined level of flame retardancy and flame resistance, and can reduce the spread of fire when a fire occurs.

[0259] The flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure can limit the generation of harmful gases during combustion because it does not contain halogen-based materials.

[0260] The flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a predetermined shrinkage rate, which allows for production at a low production cost and improves production efficiency.

[0261] The flame-retardant plastic composition of the present disclosure has a fluidity greater than a predetermined amount, so that when manufacturing large-sized parts included in home appliances by injection molding, it can be easily injection molded.

[0262] The effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0263] A home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a control panel (500; 700; 863; 1000) comprising a main body (410; 610; 810; 910) forming an exterior, a printed circuit board (520; 750; 950) disposed inside the main body, and a panel housing (510; 730; 910) disposed to surround the printed circuit board (520; 750; 950). The panel housing (510; 730; 910) may be composed of a flame-retardant plastic composition. The flame-retardant plastic composition may include a polypropylene (PP)-based resin, a recycled plastic resin, a flame retardant comprising a phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound, and glass fiber. The above phosphorus / nitrogen compound may include at least one compound among compounds including phosphorus / nitrogen substances, pyrophoric acid, and zinc oxide.

[0264] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based material may further include at least one compound among compounds including piperazine pyrophosphate, melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, and alkylamine polyphosphate.

[0265] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may be composed of 25% to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0266] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the pyrophoric acid and the zinc oxide may be composed of 5% to 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound.

[0267] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the glass fiber may be composed of 5% to 15% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0268] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the average particle size of the glass fiber may be 5 μm to 15 μm (micrometer), and the average length of the glass fiber may be 1 mm to 16 mm (millimeter).

[0269] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the polypropylene-based resin is composed of 35% to 55% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, and the polypropylene-based resin may include at least one polymer among polymers including propylene homopolymer, ethylene-propylene random copolymer, and ethylene-propylene block copolymer.

[0270] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the melt flow index (MFI) of the polypropylene-based resin may be 5 g / 10 min to 50 g / 10 min.

[0271] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the recycled plastic resin may include recycled polypropylene and recycled polyethylene. The recycled plastic resin may constitute 10% to 20% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0272] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the composition ratio of the recycled polypropylene and the recycled polyethylene included in the recycled plastic resin may be 1:0.05 to 1:0.2.

[0273] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the shrinkage rate of the flame-retardant plastic composition may be 0.3% to 0.8%.

[0274] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the Izod notch impact strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition may be 4.0 kgf·cm / cm to 4.5 kgf·cm / cm.

[0275] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexural modulus of the flame-retardant plastic composition is 20,000 kgf / cm 2 Up to 27,000 kgf / cm 2 It could be.

[0276] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the tensile strength of the flame-retardant plastic composition is 240 kgf / cm² 2 Up to 280 kgf / cm² 2 It could be.

[0277] In a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the melt flow index of the flame-retardant plastic composition may be 5 g / min to 10 g / min.

[0278] A washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a main body (410) having an inlet for receiving or receiving laundry, a drum rotatably disposed inside the main body (410), a door (412) hinge-coupled to one side of the main body to open and close the inlet, and a control assembly (500) comprising a control board (520) disposed inside the main body (410) and including a printed circuit board, and a control housing (510) disposed to surround the control board (520). The control housing (510) may be composed of a flame-retardant plastic composition. The flame-retardant plastic composition may include a polypropylene (PP)-based resin, a recycled plastic resin, a flame retardant including a phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound, and glass fiber. The phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may include at least one compound among compounds including a phosphorus / nitrogen-based material, pyrophoric acid, and zinc oxide.

[0279] In a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based material may further include at least one of piperazine pyrophosphate, melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, or alkylamine polyphosphate.

[0280] In a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound may be composed of 25% to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0281] In a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the pyrophoric acid and the zinc oxide may be composed of 5% to 10% by weight relative to the weight of the phosphorus / nitrogen-based compound.

[0282] In a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the glass fiber may be composed of 5% to 20% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition.

[0283] In a washing machine (400) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the average particle size of the glass fiber may be 5 μm to 15 μm (micrometer), and the average length of the glass fiber may be 1 mm to 16 mm (millimeter).

Claims

1. In home appliances (400; 600; 800; 900), A main body (410; 610; 810; 910) forming an exterior; and A control panel (500; 700; 863; 1000) connected to the main body, comprising a printed circuit board (520; 750; 950) and a panel housing (510; 730; 910) surrounding at least a portion of the printed circuit board (520; 750; 950), and The above panel housing (510; 730; 910) is, Polypropylene resin; Recycled plastic resin; A flame retardant comprising a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen, and further comprising at least one compound among compounds containing pyrophoric acid or zinc oxide; and A flame-retardant plastic composition comprising glass fiber, Home appliances (400; 600; 800; 900).

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen further comprises at least one compound selected from piperazine pyrophosphate, melamine polyphosphate, ammonium polyphosphate, and alkylamine phosphate, in a household appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

3. In Paragraph 1 or 2, The above flame-retardant plastic composition further comprises a compound containing phosphorus and nitrogen in an amount of 25% to 35% by weight relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, in a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 3, The above flame retardant further comprises a combination of the above pyrophoric acid and zinc oxide in an amount of 5% to 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the above flame retardant, in a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 4, The flame-retardant plastic composition further comprises 5% to 15% by weight of glass fibers relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, in a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

6. In Paragraph 5, The above glass fibers have an average particle size of 5 μm to 15 μm (micrometer) and fibers of 1 mm to 16 mm (millimeter), in a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 6, The flame-retardant plastic composition further comprises 35% to 55% by weight of the polypropylene-based resin relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, and The above polypropylene-based resin comprises at least one polymer among polymers including propylene homopolymer, ethylene-propylene random copolymer, and ethylene-propylene block copolymer, in a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

8. In Paragraph 7, The above polypropylene-based resin is a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) having a melt flow index of 5 g / 10 min to 50 g / 10 min.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 8, The above recycled plastic resin includes recycled polypropylene and recycled polyethylene, and The above flame-retardant plastic composition further comprises 10% to 20% by weight of the recycled plastic resin relative to the total weight of the flame-retardant plastic composition, in a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

10. In Paragraph 9, The above recycled plastic resin further comprises a composition ratio of the above recycled polypropylene and the above recycled polyethylene of 1:0.05 to 1:0.2 for a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900).

11. In Paragraph 1, The flame-retardant plastic composition is a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) having a shrinkage rate of 0.3% to 0.8%.

12. In Paragraph 1, The flame-retardant plastic composition above is an appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) having an Izod notch impact strength of 4.0 kgf·cm / cm to 4.5 kgf·cm / cm.

13. In Paragraph 1, The above flame-retardant plastic composition has 20,000 kgf / cm² 2 Up to 27,000 kgf / cm 2 A home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) having a flexural modulus of 14. In Paragraph 1, The above flame-retardant plastic composition is 240 kgf / cm² 2 Up to 280 kgf / cm² 2 A home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) having a tensile strength.

15. In Paragraph 1, The flame-retardant plastic composition is a home appliance (400; 600; 800; 900) having a melt flow index of 5 g / min to 10 g / min.

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