Corrugated conduits made with PVC-free LATI compounds to guarantee flexibility, mechanical resistance and environmental sustainability
Electrical & Electronic, Flame-retardant
Electrical & Electronic, Flame-retardantbyadmin

The Elimination of PVC in the Electrical and Electronic Sector

In the electrical and electronic sector, the elimination of halogens and hazardous substances from polymeric materials represents today an industrial and environmental priority.
This trend is driven both by European regulations (RoHS, REACH) and by the growing attention to fire safety and material sustainability.

Among the most widespread polymers, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) has been for years the standard choice for corrugated conduits and electrical cable trays, thanks to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. However, the presence of chlorine in the molecular structure and the formation of toxic compounds during combustion have made it necessary to search for safer and more environmentally friendly alternatives.

The Limitations of PVC and the Search for Alternative Materials

Although PVC offers good mechanical performance at room temperature, its use presents environmental and health criticalities:

  • release of chlorinated substances during combustion,
  • difficulties in disposal and recycling,
  • presence of toxic additives such as phthalates and lead stabilizers (now banned).

For manufacturers of corrugated conduits for electrical systems, the challenge consists in finding halogen-free technical compounds that guarantee:

  • self-extinguishing properties,
  • mechanical and thermal resistance,
  • flexibility and processability through extrusion,
  • competitive costs compared to PVC.

LATENE EP1-V2HF: Halogen-Free Compound for Corrugated Conduit Extrusion

To address this need, LATI has developed LATENE EP1-V2HF, a self-extinguishing halogen-free compound based on polyolefins, specifically designed for the production of corrugated conduits through extrusion.

Key Features

Properties LATENE EP1-V2HF Traditional PVC
Polymeric base Polyolefins (PE/PP) Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Flame retardant additives Halogen-free, low environmental impact Contains chlorine and metallic stabilizers
Self-extinguishing class UL94 V2 Self-extinguishing, but toxic fume release
Processability Optimized for extrusion Standard
Recyclability High Limited
Environmental impact Very low High

LATENE EP1-V2HF guarantees excellent flame resistance, maintaining flexibility, dimensional stability and impact resistance even at low temperatures.
Furthermore, it fully meets the requirements of EN 61386 standard, which defines the performance of conduits and accessories for electrical installations.

Beyond Corrugated Conduits: Self-Extinguishing Compounds for Cable Trays and Electrical Boxes

The search for PVC-free solutions does not stop at corrugated conduits alone. LATI has also developed other formulations for the electrical sector:

  • LATENE HD1 H2W-V0: compound for self-extinguishing rigid cable trays, with UL94 V0 classification at thicknesses of 1.6 and 3.2 mm.
    It is free of halogens and red phosphorus, with excellent mechanical resistance and thermal stability, ideal for civil and industrial installations.
  • LATENE EP7-V2HF: self-extinguishing PE-PP copolymer specific for flush-mounted junction boxes, designed to replace PVC in injection molding.
    It offers an optimal balance between technical performance and production cost.

Advantages of Halogen-Free Compounds for the Electrical Sector

The use of halogen-free thermoplastic compounds offers numerous advantages compared to conventional materials:

  1. Improved fire safety: in case of fire, they do not release toxic or acidic fumes.
  2. Environmental compatibility: reduced ecological impact throughout the entire life cycle.
  3. Regulatory compliance: full compliance with European directives RoHS, REACH and CPR.
  4. Excellent processability: suitable for continuous extrusion and injection molding.
  5. Stability over time: resistance to UV, humidity and atmospheric agents.

Learn more

Discover LATI LATENE solutions for PVC replacement in electrical conduits and accessories, with high-performance halogen-free self-extinguishing compounds.
Learn more at www.lati.com.

FAQ – Halogen-free Compounds for Corrugated Conduits

  1. What does “halogen-free compound” mean?
    It indicates materials free of elements such as chlorine, bromine or fluorine, to reduce fume toxicity and environmental impact.
  2. Are halogen-free compounds as fire-resistant as PVC?
    Yes, thanks to non-halogenated flame retardant additives, they can achieve UL94 V0 or V2 classifications.
  3. Is it possible to completely replace PVC in corrugated conduits?
    Yes, with formulations based on self-extinguishing polyolefins, such as LATENE EP1-V2HF, which maintain equivalent mechanical performance and safety.