Schurter Launches Bioplastic Appliance Connectors
Breaking News: Schurter Launches World's First Bioplastic Appliance Connectors
Hello, and welcome to our latest news update! Today, we're excited to share with you a groundbreaking innovation in the world of sustainability. Mark Britton here, and I'll be guiding you through this cutting-edge development.
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The Rise of Bioplastics: A Game-Changer for Sustainability
In a bold move towards reducing carbon footprint, Schurter has launched the world's first appliance connectors made from bioplastic. This pioneering effort is part of their comprehensive strategy for sustainability, dubbed the "Green Line." By harnessing the potential of castor beans, these bioplastics offer a significantly more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional oil-based plastics.
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Unparalleled Environmental Benefits
The adoption of bioplastic in Schurter's Green Line appliance connectors yields remarkable environmental benefits. When compared to conventional oil-based plastics, these bioplastics reduce carbon dioxide emissions by a staggering 68%. This substantial decrease is a direct result of the biodegradable nature of castor beans, which are used as the primary raw material.
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A Closed-Loop Life Cycle: The Key to Sustainability
One of the most significant advantages of bioplastics is their recyclable nature. This ensures that the entire life cycle of the product, from production to disposal, has a neutral carbon dioxide footprint. By embracing this closed-loop approach, Schurter sets a new standard for sustainable practices in the industry.
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Design Flexibility Meets Environmental Responsibility
Schurter's commitment to sustainability does not compromise on design flexibility. The Green Line appliance connectors are available in an impressive 77 variants, offering a range of options for design engineers. These include IEC 6320 compatible inlet and outlet connectors, with screw-on or snap-in mounting and solder or quick-connect terminals.
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Supporting Design Engineers and the Environment
Schurter is dedicated to supporting design engineers in their pursuit of sustainable solutions. The company offers immediate support for design engineers working with Green Line connectors, as well as long-term support for the future of the environment.
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A Bright Future for Sustainability
The launch of Schurter's bioplastic appliance connectors marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a more sustainable future. As we continue to push the boundaries of innovation, one thing is clear: the future of our planet depends on our ability to adapt and evolve.
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| Sustainable Connectors |
Sustainable connectors refer to environmentally friendly and socially responsible interconnects that minimize their impact on the environment throughout their entire lifecycle. |
| Background |
The increasing awareness of environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and e-waste, has led to a growing demand for sustainable products in various industries. The electronics industry, in particular, is under pressure to reduce its ecological footprint. |
| Drivers |
The main drivers behind the development of sustainable connectors are: |
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Government regulations and standards, such as RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) |
| • |
Increasing consumer awareness and demand for eco-friendly products |
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Advancements in technology, enabling the development of more sustainable materials and manufacturing processes |
| Key Features |
Sustainable connectors are characterized by: |
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The use of environmentally friendly materials, such as recycled plastics and bio-based alternatives |
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Energy-efficient designs and reduced power consumption |
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Designs for recyclability, reusability, or biodegradability at the end of their life cycle |
| Benefits |
The adoption of sustainable connectors offers several benefits, including: |
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Reduced environmental impact and carbon footprint |
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Compliance with regulations and standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance costs |
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Enhanced brand reputation and competitiveness in the market |
| Schurter Launches Bioplastic Appliance Connectors |
| Release Date: |
March 2023 |
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Schurter, a leading manufacturer of electronic components and input systems, has launched a new range of bioplastic appliance connectors. The innovative connectors are designed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the high quality and reliability that Schurter is known for.
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| Bioplastic Material: |
The bioplastic connectors are made from a plant-based material called polylactic acid (PLA), which is derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. This eco-friendly material reduces greenhouse gas emissions and non-renewable energy consumption during production. |
| Key Features: |
- High-quality, reliable connections
- Reduced environmental impact due to bioplastic material
- Compliant with international safety standards (e.g., IEC 60320-1)
- Aesthetically pleasing design
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| Target Applications: |
The bioplastic appliance connectors are suitable for a wide range of applications, including:
- Household appliances (e.g., refrigerators, washing machines)
- Commercial equipment (e.g., vending machines, coffee makers)
- Medical devices
- Industrial automation systems
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| Certifications and Compliance: |
The bioplastic connectors meet various international certifications, including:
- UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification
- EAC (Eurasian Conformity) marking
- RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliance
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| Availability: |
The bioplastic appliance connectors are available for sampling and ordering through Schurter's global distribution network. |
| Q1: What is Schurter's latest innovation in appliance connectors? |
Schurter has launched bioplastic appliance connectors, made from renewable resources. |
| Q2: What are the benefits of using bioplastics in appliance connectors? |
Bioplastics offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, reducing carbon footprint and dependence on fossil fuels. |
| Q3: Are Schurter's bioplastic appliance connectors compatible with existing products? |
| Q4: What type of renewable resources are used to produce Schurter's bioplastics? |
The bioplastics are made from plant-based materials such as corn starch, sugarcane, or potato starch. |
| Q5: Do the bioplastic appliance connectors meet international safety standards? |
| Q6: Are there any performance differences between bioplastic and traditional plastic connectors? |
No, the bioplastic connectors offer similar performance characteristics to traditional plastic connectors. |
| Q7: Can Schurter's bioplastic appliance connectors be recycled? |
| Q8: What is the expected impact of Schurter's bioplastic appliance connectors on the environment? |
The use of bioplastics can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve non-renewable resources, and minimize waste. |
| Q9: Will Schurter continue to produce traditional plastic appliance connectors? |
| Q10: Are there plans for further development of bioplastic products within Schurter? |
| Pioneers/Companies |
Description |
| 1. Schurter AG |
Swiss-based electronics company that launched bioplastic appliance connectors, pioneering the use of sustainable materials in electrical components. |
| 2. NatureWorks LLC |
A US-based bioplastics manufacturer that produces polylactic acid (PLA) and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), used in various applications, including packaging and textiles. |
| 3. BASF SE |
A German multinational chemical company that develops and produces bioplastics, such as ecoflex and ecovio, for use in packaging, disposable cutlery, and other applications. |
| 4. DuPont Industrial Biosciences |
A US-based biotechnology company that develops sustainable materials, including bioplastics, for various industries, such as packaging, textiles, and construction. |
| 5. Braskem S.A. |
A Brazilian petrochemical company that produces bioplastics, including polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), from sugarcane ethanol, used in packaging and other applications. |
| 6. Corbion |
A Dutch biotechnology company that develops sustainable solutions, including bioplastics, for the food, biochemicals, and biomaterials industries. |
| 7. Eastman Chemical Company |
A US-based chemical company that produces bioplastics, such as Tritan, a BPA-free copolyester used in packaging, water bottles, and other applications. |
| 8. Novamont S.p.A. |
An Italian biotechnology company that develops sustainable solutions, including bioplastics, for the agriculture, packaging, and textiles industries. |
| 9. Biome Technologies Plc |
A UK-based biotechnology company that develops sustainable materials, including bioplastics, for use in packaging, disposable cutlery, and other applications. |
| 10. FKuR Kunststoff GmbH |
A German plastics manufacturer that produces bioplastics, such as Bio-Flex and Bio-PET, used in packaging, disposable cutlery, and other applications. |
| Product Name: |
Schurter Appliance Connectors with Bioplastic Housing |
| Material: |
Polyamide 6.10 (PA 6.10) bioplastic, a renewable resource-based material derived from castor oil |
| Key Features: |
- Meets international standards for safety and performance (e.g., IEC, UL, ENEC)
- Flame retardancy according to UL94 V-0
- Operating temperature range: -40°C to 105°C
- IP67 rating for protection against dust and water ingress
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| Electrical Specifications: |
- Voltage rating: up to 250V AC/DC
- Current rating: up to 20A
- Contact resistance: ≤ 10 mΩ
- Insulation resistance: ≥ 100 MΩ
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| Environmental Benefits: |
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions during production
- Lower carbon footprint compared to traditional plastics
- Compostable and biodegradable according to EN 13432
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| Application Areas: |
- Appliances (e.g., refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines)
- Industrial control systems
- Mechanical engineering applications
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| Certifications and Compliance: |
- UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification
- ENEC (European Certification for Electrical Products) mark
- Compliance with RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive
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