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Henkel Unveils New Silicone Compounds to Tackle EV Heat Challenges

Struggling with overheating in compact EV systems? Henkel's latest potting materials promise better reliability and efficiency—without the bulk. A game-changer for e-mobility engineers.

The image shows an advertisement for a wood's coupe, a self-charging electric car. It is a paper...
The image shows an advertisement for a wood's coupe, a self-charging electric car. It is a paper with pictures of the car and text describing its features. The car has a sleek, modern design with a curved roofline and a large, angular front grille. The wheels are large and have a glossy finish. The windows are tinted and the car is parked in a grassy area with trees in the background.

Henkel Unveils New Silicone Compounds to Tackle EV Heat Challenges

Henkel has expanded its range of thermal potting materials with two new silicone compounds designed for electric vehicles. The products, Loctite SI 5643 and Loctite SI 5637, target the growing challenges of heat management in high-performance power electronics. Both aim to improve reliability and efficiency in EV components like on-board chargers and inverters. The EV industry increasingly relies on compact powertrain units to save space, reduce weight, and boost efficiency. This approach merges multiple components into a single housing, but it also creates engineering hurdles. Heat dissipation becomes critical as higher power densities generate more waste energy, while electromagnetic loads and mechanical stresses—such as high-speed bearing limits—demand advanced cooling solutions. Traditional methods often fall short, requiring innovations like oil cooling for stators and rotors or materials like silver to prevent thermal runaway.

Henkel's new Loctite products address these issues with pourable, self-levelling potting compounds. Both are two-component, fast-curing silicones with low viscosity, allowing them to fill small gaps and enhance heat transfer. Their flexibility and very low Shore hardness protect delicate electronics from vibration and thermal cycling without adding stress.

The two materials differ in thermal conductivity, offering designers options for specific needs. Loctite SI 5643 and Loctite SI 5637 are optimised for power conversion components, where efficient thermal management is essential. By launching these solutions, Henkel reinforces its position in developing materials for e-mobility applications. The new Loctite compounds provide EV manufacturers with tailored options for thermal management in critical power electronics. Their ability to handle heat, vibration, and mechanical stress helps improve long-term reliability in compact, high-performance systems. Henkel's expanded portfolio supports the industry's push toward more efficient and durable electric vehicle designs.

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