Ethylene Extrusion Tetrafluoroethylene, widely known as ETFE, is a distinctive type of cable insulation used mostly in aircraft and electronic transportation applications. Generally, a lightweight, flame-resistant cable that is also mechanically durable is needed for these applications. Modified radiation cross-linked ETFE polymer is used to insulate wire that meets MIL specification Data Sheet MIL-W-22759/32 to 35 and MIL-W-22759/41 to 46.
Furthermore at FLU-TEF WIRES & CABLES PVT. LTD., we offer unique variations that adhere to European Space Agency standards and are appropriate for use in space. For aerospace users, this wire offers one of the most extensive product lines for wiring. The wire comes in lightweight and regular-weight varieties. Lightweight wires have a single wall of insulation, while heavier wires have two walls. XL-ETFE wire often melts at a higher temperature than regular material. This is not to imply that single-wall ETFE constructions are not useful; the material will hold up very well in typical applications.
Cross-Linked Extruded Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene is known as XL-ETFE wires. The main applications for it in avionics and airframes are wire insulation. Often, these applications ask for cable that is both flame retardant and mechanically robust. Moreover, the thermoset insulation known as XL-ETFE offers superior fluid, oil, and moisture resistance. Furthermore, cross-linking increases stability at higher temperatures.
Wire as per MIL specification Data Sheet MIL-W-22759/32 to 35 and MIL-W-22759/41 to 46 are insulated with modified radiation cross linked ETFE polymer.
Although ETFE and XL-ETFE wires are similar, they do differ in a few key ways. One is cross-linked whereas the other is not, which is the primary distinction. When employing copper alloy that has been coated or plated with silver as the conductor, slants /32–/35 have a greater overall temperature rating than slants /16–/19 due to cross-linking. The maximum temperature for slants /16-/19 with silver-coated/plated copper alloy is 150°C, whereas the maximum temperature for slants /32-/35 with silver-coated/plated copper alloy is 200°C.
At these higher temperatures, cross-linking offers more stability than its conventional counterpart.
XLETFE wires are electrical wires with modified, radiation cross-linked ETFE insulation. They provide lightweight, mechanically robust, and high-performance wiring for demanding applications.
XLETFE wires are mainly used for aircraft wiring, avionics, military electronics, and satellite and space applications where applicable.
XLETFE wires are available in 600 V constructions with operating temperature ratings of -65°C to +150°C or +200°C, depending on the SAE AS22759 construction.