Smaller, Lighter, and More Robust Than PVC
Elizabeth, NJ, October 30, 2009 – Alpha Wire has launched the latest innovation in hook-up wire: EcoWire. A true engineering breakthrough, EcoWire achieves expanded functionality over standard PVC-based hook-up wire with insulation that is fully recyclable. Using a modified polyphenylene ether (mPPE) thermoplastic that is inherently lighter, tougher and more durable than PVC, EcoWire is non-halogenic and contains no heavy metal pigments. The result is UL AWM wire that helps manufacturers meet Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) requirements.
“EcoWire gives designers a remarkable alternative in hook-up wire,” said Konstantin Khitrik, Product Manager at Alpha Wire. “It yields significant space and weight savings over PVC counterparts, while offering ten times better abrasion and pinch resistance. Because mPPE contains no halogens, phthalates, or heavy metals, it meets RoHS and WEEE requirements for the elimination of hazardous substances and recyclability.”
For example, a 20 AWG PVC-insulated wire has a diameter of 0.101 inch (2.57 mm). The equivalent EcoWire has a diameter nearly 50% smaller at 0.055 inch (1.40 mm).
The initial EcoWire offering is a UL AWM 11028 wire available in sizes from 28 AWG (0.07 mm2) to 10 AWG (5.37 mm2) with solid or stranded tinned copper conductors. Rated for operating temperatures to 105°C, the wires meet UL VW-1 flammability requirements.
