SKINTOP® from LAPP: First range of lead-free brass cable glands

Lead-free: At the petrol station, we have long since become familiar with the fact that petrol is no longer allowed to contain lead. Metallic materials, such as brass, must also dispense with lead as an additive for easier processing – with one exception: Up to four percent is permitted in copper alloys – including brass, which is used to produce cable glands. As things stand, this exception will expire on July 21, 2021, and it is still unclear whether there will be an extension or a transitional period. If the exception ends as planned, brass will no longer be allowed to contain any lead, as stipulated by the European Directive RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). In the REACH chemical regulation, lead is also on the candidate list for “Substances of very high concern”, which could soon be prohibited. LAPP does not want to wait around: Since July 2020 onwards, the world market leader for integrated cable and connection solutions will also be the first manufacturer in the world to offer cable glands in a lead-free brass version.

Majority of portfolio also lead-free

Extensive tests

In recent months, LAPP has investigated various lead-free alloys. This included tests in production to ensure the reliability of the processes and the suitability of the tools. Both the LAPP laboratory and external testing institutions have confirmed that the properties of the new products are comparable with the current versions. This applies to the mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and EMC properties. The lead-free versions also comply with protection class IP 68. “The lead-free cable glands have seen LAPP successfully tackle the challenges of identifying an alternative material”, said Lisa Schlingmann, Product Manager at LAPP. Although the new material is more complex to process, LAPP decided to include the material in its standard range.

“With the lead-free SKINTOP^® and SKINDICHT^® cable glands, LAPP is taking a pioneering role,” said Guido Ege. Anyone who is currently planning a machine with a long service life cannot rule out a possible ban on lead. “We are already giving our customers the certainty that they will be prepared for the challenges of the future.”