Growing energy demands, aging electrical systems, grid modernization, and the drive for improved energy efficiency are putting significant strain on today’s electrical infrastructure.
The modernization of transformers and electric motors is driving increased demand for electrical insulation tapes. These critical components require insulating pressure-sensitive adhesive tapes engineered to meet specific thermal, dielectric, mechanical, and chemical compatibility requirements. With a range of backings and adhesives, our CHR® Products are UL-recognized and offer thermal capabilities spanning from Class A (105°C) to Class N (200°C).
In this article, we spoke with Nirmal Patel, Product Manager for CHR Tapes at Saint-Gobain® Tape Solutions, to discuss the importance of UL listing in the electro-mechanical market and to better understand how UL class types influence product features, capabilities, and common applications.
Understanding UL Listing and Matrix Technology’s Role in Electrical Insulation
How do Matrix Technology’s products apply within energy systems, particularly for electrical insulation?
Matrix Technology provides critical solutions that operate behind the scenes in power generation, distribution, and transmission. Our UL-approved tapes are specifically designed to serve as insulation media for transformers, motors, and generators. These tapes help separate components to prevent short circuits or electrical arcing. For instance, they can act as spacers between coil wires and metal housings, reducing metal-to-metal contact within transformers, rotors, and stators. This ensures system safety by preventing electrical shocks or catastrophic failures like explosions.
Why is UL listing so significant?
In the electromechanical industry, UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification is one of the most respected and widely recognized standards. For OEMs manufacturing transformers, motors, and generators, UL recognition is a non-negotiable requirement. Specifically, UL 1446 outlines guidelines and methodologies for assessing the performance of electrical insulation materials and systems.
The UL classification provides valuable insights into product performance. Using thermal class ratings, determined through rigorous testing (e.g., full thermal aging and high-voltage thermal aging tests), manufacturers can predict thermal degradation and product lifespan. A typical piece of equipment with a UL-rated insulation system is expected to last approximately 20,000 hours at its rated temperature.
What high-performance electrical insulation tapes are UL-certified?
Matrix Technology offers a comprehensive portfolio of UL-approved insulation tapes under CHR® and h-old® brands, catering to industries such as electromechanical, aerospace, oil and gas, electronics, and industrial markets. These tapes meet the stringent requirements of UL 1446 and are available for both North American and European applications.
What do the UL thermal class ratings represent?
UL thermal classifications are based on the product’s tested temperature range. For example:
- High-Temperature Classes (UL N – 200°C, UL H – 180°C):
- Fluoropolymer Tapes (e.g., PTFE, FEP): Ideal for insulating end windings in high-temperature motors and generators.
- Polyimide (PI) Tapes: Featuring Kapton® and other grades with silicone adhesives, suitable for high-temperature motor and generator applications.
- Glass Cloth Tapes: With silicone adhesive, these are perfect for higher-temperature coil winding and layer banding.
- Medium-Temperature Classes (UL F – 155°C, UL B – 130°C, UL A – 105°C):
- PET Film/Non-Woven and Paper Laminated Tapes: Used for phase insulation and coil wrapping, offering excellent strength and puncture resistance.
- PET Film Adhesive Tapes: Flame-retardant, varnish-compatible, and suitable for interlayer insulation in transformers and coils.
- Acetate Cloth-backed Tapes: Thermosetting adhesives make these ideal for wrapping bobbins and small transformers.
- Double-sided Adhesive Tapes: Offer strong adhesion and are perfect for fixing insulation materials during transformer production.
Why is selecting the right class of insulation critical?
Choosing the correct insulation class is crucial for system reliability and cost-effectiveness. Using insulation with a lower thermal rating than required can lead to overheating, equipment damage, or failure. Conversely, selecting an unnecessarily high class may add excessive weight and cost to the equipment without any performance benefit.
Supporting Engineers and OEMs
Matrix Technology is dedicated to providing UL-listed tapes that align with strict safety standards, ensuring high quality and reliable delivery. By partnering with flexible suppliers like us, electrical equipment manufacturers can meet market demands, navigate supply chain challenges, and capitalize on new growth opportunities.
