n  BASF’s recyclable, energy efficient and high-performance material solutions reduce life cycle carbon emissions of the switchgear cabinet

Shanghai, China – July 10, 2024 – BASF and Ningbo Yaohua Electric Technology Co., Ltd. (Yaohua) have co-created a concept switchgear cabinet with insulation components made of BASF’s high-performance material solutions Ultramid^® polyamide (PA) and Ultradur^® polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Compared to conventional thermosetting materials, embedded pole, bushing, insulated spindle, and static contact socket of the disconnect switch made with Ultramid and Ultradur are recyclable. The processing and production of Ultramid and Ultradur is also more energy efficient.

Caption - BASF’s recyclable, energy efficient and high-performance material solutions reduce life cycle carbon emissions of the switchgear cabinet

“The trend across the switchgear market is towards using more sustainable materials which reduce carbon emissions throughout the product’s life cycle. With BASF’s solutions, we have significantly improved the overall recyclability of our switchgear cabinet and a step closer to achieving our company's sustainability goals,” said Mr. Jiangang Liu, Chairman, Yaohua.

The electrical cabinet is also more reliable for long-term use in a wide range of harsh environments owing to the high mechanical strength and good electrical insulation properties of Ultramid and Ultradur. The lightweight material solutions possess excellent flowability, which enables design freedom for a more compact cabinet structure.

“Together with Yaohua, we are enabling the green transformation of the medium and high voltage switchgear cabinet industry with our advanced material solutions. Our Creation Center China also provided expertise and technical guidance for the design of the switchgear cabinet and key component mockup,” said Eng Guan Soh, Vice President, Business Management Engineering Plastics, Performance Materials Asia Pacific, BASF.

The switchgear cabinet - responsible for controlling, protecting, and isolating electrical equipment and circuits - is a vital component of an electrical power system.