Blog

Why Non-Silicone Sealants Are Essential for Vehicle Electrical Safety

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has led to a demand for improved safety measures, especially in relation to electrical components. One critical safety feature is the use of non-silicone, flame-retardant sealants that are specifically designed to protect the vehicle’s on-board electrical systems. These sealants, like ThreeBond 1167, play a crucial role in enhancing vehicle safety by addressing issues associated with traditional silicone-based sealants. This blog explores why non-silicone sealants are essential for vehicle electrical safety and their growing importance in the automotive industry.

The Risks of Silicone Sealants in Electric Vehicles

Traditional silicone sealants, although widely used in the past, present several challenges when applied to electric vehicle components. One of the key issues is the presence of low molecular weight siloxanes, which can cause electrical contact failures. These siloxanes tend to migrate and accumulate on the surfaces of electrical components, leading to poor connectivity and potential malfunctions. For vehicles, especially EVs that are packed with sensitive electronic systems, this poses a significant risk to performance and safety.

Furthermore, many silicone sealants contain organotin compounds, which are used as curing catalysts. These compounds are restricted under the European REACH regulation due to their negative impact on the environment and human health. As the automotive industry shifts towards environmentally friendly alternatives, there is a growing need for non-silicone sealants that comply with stringent environmental regulations while providing robust performance.

The Advantages of Non-Silicone Sealants

Non-silicone sealants, such as ThreeBond 1167, are designed to address the limitations of silicone-based products. They are free from low molecular weight siloxanes and organotin compounds, making them environmentally friendly and safe for vehicle applications. Here are some of the key features that make non-silicone sealants an essential choice for modern vehicle safety:

• Free of Siloxanes and Organotin Compounds: These sealants eliminate the risk of electrical contact failures and comply with regulations such as the European REACH regulation.
• Flame-Retardant: The flame retardancy of non-silicone sealants is equivalent to the UL94 V-0 standard, which is crucial in preventing fires in vehicles, especially around battery cases and ECUs (Electronic Control Units).
• Flexible and Durable: Non-silicone sealants, like ThreeBond 1167, offer excellent flexibility with an elongation of up to 300%, making them ideal for automotive applications where components are subject to movement and stress.
• Heat Resistance: With their ability to withstand high temperatures (up to 120°C), these sealants ensure the durability of electrical components even under extreme conditions.

Applications of Non-Silicone Sealants in Automotive Assembly

Non-silicone sealants are widely used in the automotive industry for sealing critical electrical components. These include:

• Battery Case Seals: In electric vehicles, the battery is a highly sensitive component, and there is always a risk of it catching fire due to shocks or impacts during accidents. Flame-retardant sealants help mitigate these risks by providing robust seals around the battery casing, reducing the chance of ignition.
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Seals: ECUs are the brain of a vehicle’s electronic system, controlling everything from engine management to safety features. Non-silicone sealants ensure that these units remain securely sealed, free from the risk of electrical failures due to siloxanes.
• General Electrical Components: Any component in a vehicle that requires protection from heat, vibrations, and potential fire hazards can benefit from non-silicone sealants. This includes connectors, circuit boards, and wiring systems.

Future Trends in Adhesives and Sealants for Electric Vehicles

As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, the demand for non-silicone, flame-retardant sealants is expected to rise. The increasing focus on environmentally friendly materials will drive innovation in this sector, with manufacturers developing products that not only enhance vehicle safety but also meet global regulations for environmental sustainability.

Another trend is the shift towards liquid gaskets with flame-retardant properties. These gaskets offer superior sealing performance and are easier to apply compared to traditional solid gaskets. They also contribute to weight reduction in vehicles, which is a key consideration for electric cars that need to maximize energy efficiency.

Moreover, the automotive industry is looking for sealants that can withstand higher temperatures and more severe conditions as electric vehicles continue to evolve. Sealants like ThreeBond 1167 are leading the way in providing long-lasting durability and protection for automotive electrical components.

Conclusion

The transition to non-silicone sealants in the automotive industry is a significant step toward improving vehicle electrical safety and environmental sustainability. Products like ThreeBond 1167 provide a robust solution by eliminating the risks associated with traditional silicone-based sealants, offering flame-retardant protection, flexibility, and heat resistance. As the electric vehicle market expands, the importance of reliable, environmentally friendly sealants will continue to grow, ensuring the safety and performance of tomorrow’s vehicles.