DSM polyamide shines in LED Array Holder

DSM has developed a special grade of its high performance polyamide 4T, for the one of the first ever integrated plastics holder for a LED array.

LEDs are setting designers free to create new concepts in lighting. LED Array Holders simplify the LED installation process and reduce installation time due to compression contacts that eliminate hand soldering. The holders allow customers to install LED arrays quickly into fixtures.

Producers and marketers of LED luminaires and fixtures want an aesthetical and white product. The reflectivity of the white LED holder also contributes to the light output of the light unit. Luminaire makers also require a solution where the holder does not crack during assembly into the fixture. The producers of the LED array holders developed a solution that will allow them to reflow solder the array into the holder in a simply and reliable way. This all together requires engineering plastics with excellent mechanical, optical and thermal performance.

DSM says Stanyl ForTii F11C outperforms a liquid crystal polymer (LCP), originally considered for this application, in several aspects. It reportedly has high impact strength and its very good flow properties enable it to fill a mould originally designed for an LCP. Stanyl ForTii is said to produce parts with higher weld line strength, resulting in significant less cracking during assembling.

Its high deflection temperature under load (305°C), required to minimise distortion during reflow soldering, is said to be better than that of other thermoplastics such as polyphthalamide (PPA) and LCP’s. It has a UL94 V-0 flammability rating, and this special version developed by DSM for LED array holders also has the white colour and reflectivity required.

With Stanyl ForTii, DSM says it is helping its customers bring to market an easy to assemble, halogen free lower-cost LED.