The “Cogegum” family of crosslinkable, halogen-free flame retardant (HFFR) compounds for cable jacketing from Solvay Specialty Polymers (Alpharetta, Georgia / USA; www.solvayspecialtypolymers.com) has been expanded through the introduction of GFR 380, which is claimed to provide improved flexibility and flame resistance compared to other silane-grafted HFFR materials.

With a 38 Shore D hardness, the grade is softer and more flexible than competitive silane-grafted HFFRs which typically exhibit a 45 to 50 Shore D hardness, the company said. This is particularly important in railway and shipboard applications where cable space is narrow and bending ability is a key advantage.

The material incorporates a masterbatch to improve cross-linking action and aging, a UV agent to enhance weatherability and provides superior flame retardant properties compared to competitive silane grafted HFFRs. It also offers the same chemical resistance as previous grades to such substances as oil, fuels, alkalines, acids, and service fluids.