IBA’s Easy-e-Beam: An integrated crosslinking solution

Easy-e-Beam

Ionizing energy, as provided by an accelerated electron beam (EB), is an efficient means of crosslinking polymers used for wire and cable jacketing. In this process, chemical bonds are formed between polymer molecules chains in order to produce a three-dimensional insoluble network. This can be done without heat. In most instances, ionization causes the abstraction of an atom of hydrogen from a polymer to produce active sites along a polymer chain that can bind to similar sites on adjacent chains without the use of crosslinking agents.

EB processing is faster, more controllable and more economical than thermal and/or chemical crosslinking when used in the production of insulated wires and cables. EB crosslinked wire and cable insulation entails several favorable properties. It will not melt and flow at elevated ambient temperatures, nor melt and flow should the conductor become heated due to an electrical short circuit. EB crosslinking reduces the risk of flame propagation should a fire occur in electrical equipment. Tensile strength, especially at elevated temperatures, is increased, as are abrasion resistance, stress crack resistance and solvent resistance.

IBA recently developed a new solution for Electron beam crosslinking called Easy-e-Beam. Easy-e-Beam is based on the proven industrial reliability of the Dynamitron accelerator. It’s easy in the sense that the solution is self shielded allowing an easy installation in an existing facility. Additionally, Easy-e-Beam integrates in one system the E-beam accelerator and the wire handling system, both of them being managed by a single PLC-based Control System. Wires and cables that are wound on reels are fed into the Easy-e-Beam and then, after electron beam treatment, are rewound onto take-up reels. Easy-e-Beam can handle cross-sections up to 30 mm² and, for small wires, reach a line speed of up to 1,000 m/min.

IBA can also provide complete and fully integrated crosslinking lines, including pay-off, take-up and quality control equipment.

More information on www.iba-cables.com

PUBLISHED: 05 Mar 10

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