Halogen-Free Polymer Composition for Cable Conjunction Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conjunction devices face challenges in meeting industrial requirements for flame retardance, mechanical protection, flexibility, and dimensional stability due to the unpredictable variations in polymer composition properties, making it difficult to balance multiple parameters such as elongation, strength, and friction simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

A halogen-free polymer composition comprising 24-32 wt.% of linear very low density polyethylene, 8-16 wt.% of ultra-low density random ethylene-octene copolymer, and 56-65 wt.% of hydrated metal-based flame retardant filler, optimized for extrusion and meeting specific weight percentages to achieve balanced properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the polymer composition is changed to improve one or the other parameter, then one parameter is improved, but at least one other parameter deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflame retardanceVSAvoidstrength at break
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the density of VLDPE within the range 0.85-0.910 g/cm³ and its content at 24-32 wt.-%, along with POE content at 8-16 wt.-%. This optimization of physical parameters enables the composition to achieve both flame retardance and mechanical strength simultaneously, resolving the contradiction between these properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a composite polymer composition combining VLDPE and POE in specific ratios with flame retardant fillers. This composite approach allows the material to exhibit both flame retardant properties and high mechanical strength, overcoming the trade-off between these conflicting requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If the polymer composition is changed to improve elongation at break, then elongation is improved, but mechanical stability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelongation at breakVSAvoidmechanical stability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent optimizes the density parameter of VLDPE (0.85-0.910 g/cm³) and the compositional parameters (24-32 wt.-% VLDPE, 8-16 wt.-% POE) to achieve a balance where elongation at break reaches 300-500% while maintaining mechanical stability. This precise parameter control resolves the contradiction between elongation and stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces local quality by specifying that only linear VLDPE with density 0.85-0.910 g/cm³ should be used, excluding branched VLDPE. This specific local requirement for polymer structure ensures both high elongation and mechanical stability are achieved simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Reliability

If flame retardant filler content is increased to improve flame retardancy, then flame retardancy is improved, but flexibility and elongation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflame retardancyVSAvoidflexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the parameters of the polymer matrix (VLDPE density and content, POE content) to compensate for the stiffening effect of flame retardant fillers. By optimizing these parameters within specific ranges, the composition achieves high flame retardancy while maintaining flexibility and elongation properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses POE as an intermediary component between the VLDPE matrix and flame retardant fillers. The POE acts as a lubricant and flexibility enhancer, allowing high filler content for flame retardancy while maintaining the flexibility and elongation of the overall composition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3510603B1Conjunction device such as a cable and polymer composition for preparing same
Publication Date: 2020.06.17 LEONI KABEL GMBH

AI summary

The invention relates to conjunction devices and polymer compositions used for preparing the conjunction devices. The conjunction devices comprise one or more elements including a static/moving current medium or communication medium; and a halogen-free polymer composition surrounding the element(s). The polymer composition includes a linear very low density polyethylene (VLDPE) composition and one or more polyolefin-elastomers. In addition, the polymer composition includes a flame retardant filler.