Composition: Made from a composite of porous silica, alumina, and other materials.
Thermal Conductivity: Extremely low at 0.009 W/m·K.
Temperature Resistance: Can withstand temperatures up to 1300°C.
Density: Remarkably low, making it ideal for use in battery systems where weight is a concern.
AS27-s acts as a firewall within the battery pack, isolating thermal events and preventing them from cascading through the entire system. This significantly enhances the overall safety of lithium-ion battery packs, especially in high-energy applications like electric vehicles and grid storage systems.
Conclusion
Preventing thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries requires a multi-faceted approach. While advanced battery management systems and improved cell designs are crucial, the introduction of innovative materials like AS27-s represents a significant leap forward in battery safety technology. As the demand for high-performance batteries continues to grow, such advancements will play a pivotal role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of lithium-ion battery systems across various applications.
As the industry grapples with these challenges, innovative solutions are emerging to enhance battery safety. One such solution is the AS27-s thermal insulation sheet developed by LiPOLY Technology.
The AS27-s offers several key benefits:
Exceptional thermal insulation: With an ultra-low thermal conductivity of 0.01 W/m·K, AS27-s effectively prevents heat transfer between battery cells.
Fire resistance: The material does not contain asbestos or other harmful substances, providing an additional layer of safety.
Versatility: Composed of high-polymer foam, glass fiber, and heat-resistant composites, AS27-s can be customized for various battery configurations.
By incorporating AS27-s insulation sheets into battery pack designs, manufacturers can significantly reduce the risk of thermal runaway propagation. This added protection could potentially prevent small incidents from escalating into large-scale disasters like the Moss Landing fire.
Looking Ahead
As the world increasingly relies on lithium-ion batteries for renewable energy storage and electric transportation, ensuring their safety is paramount. The Moss Landing incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks, but also highlights the importance of continued innovation in battery safety technologies.Implementing advanced thermal insulation solutions like AS27-s represents a crucial step towards creating safer, more reliable energy storage systems. As the industry evolves, such measures will be essential in building public trust and supporting the broader transition to sustainable energy solutions.
A Miracle in the Fire: The House That Remained Unscathed
One of the most compelling stories in the wake of recent California wildfires is that of a home that stood untouched while neighboring properties were reduced to ash. Media outlets quickly labeled it a “miracle,” but a closer look revealed a meticulously planned defense system. The homeowner had invested heavily in fireproof construction techniques, incorporating fire-resistant roofing, sealed eaves, and careful landscaping—often called creating a “defensible space.” Together, these measures formed an effective shield against flying embers and intense heat.
Though no single material or approach can guarantee total invulnerability, the combination of smart land management and robust fireproofing significantly raises the odds of survival. This house’s success story became a rallying point for architects, homeowners, and local governments eager to adopt similar strategies, reminding the public that sometimes the “best fire insurance” is investment in prevention rather than relying solely on post-disaster coverage.
Why Fire-Specific Building Codes Need an Upgrade
Even as California continues to refine its wildfire preparedness strategies, there is growing consensus that existing building and fire codes must evolve. Traditional regulations aim to prevent the rapid spread of fire but often overlook the extreme temperatures and sustained heat exposure characteristic of modern wildfires. Embers can travel miles ahead of the main blaze, igniting rooftops, decks, and other flammable surfaces almost instantaneously.
Defensible Space Requirements: Current guidelines advise homeowners to clear vegetation and debris within at least 30 feet of a structure, but recent regulations and proposed upgrades extend this radius to 100 feet or more in high-risk areas.
Fire-Resistant Roofing: Some cities now require Class A fire-rated roofing materials, such as tile or metal, which are better at resisting both flame and flying sparks.
Sealing Vulnerable Entry Points: Building codes increasingly mandate the sealing of attic vents and crawl spaces with fine mesh screens to block embers.
Yet these steps alone cannot address the full scope of wildfire threats. Incorporating cutting-edge fireproofing products—like high-performance thermal blankets—represents the next logical step in comprehensive fire safety regulations.
AS17-s Thermal Blanket: A High-Efficiency Fireproof Material
Among the various fireproofing technologies on the market, AS17-s Thermal Blanket stands out for its exceptional performance. This material boasts an impressively low thermal conductivity of just 0.028 W/m*K, meaning it transfers heat at a significantly slower rate compared to conventional insulation. Even under extreme conditions exceeding 1000°C, AS17-s Thermal Blanket can maintain structural integrity for several hours, buying precious time for firefighters to intervene and limiting the spread of flames within wall assemblies or roofing systems.
Unmatched Fire Resistance: Thanks to its high melting point and robust construction, AS17-s remains stable even under prolonged exposure to intense heat and flames.
Superior Energy Efficiency: Its low thermal conductivity not only helps in fire scenarios but also reduces heating and cooling costs year-round, making it a dual-purpose investment for homeowners.
Easy Installation: AS17-s Thermal Blanket is designed to be installed in walls, ceilings, and floors without requiring extensive structural modifications, allowing both new builds and retrofits to benefit from its properties.
The Best Fire Insurance Is Fire Prevention
Though property insurance can help cover the cost of rebuilding after a disaster, it does nothing to shield homeowners from the immediate dangers of losing personal belongings, facing temporary displacement, or worse. After all, no amount of money can fully compensate for the trauma and potential loss of life that wildfires can inflict. This is why investing in fire prevention measures is often touted as the best form of “insurance” in California.
Regular Maintenance: Routinely clearing gutters, removing dry brush, and trimming overhanging branches is crucial.
Choosing the Right Materials: Implementing AS17-s Thermal Blanket in key structural areas adds a formidable layer of protection against heat transfer and flame spread.
Community Coordination: Neighborhood-wide strategies, such as shared defensible spaces and updated fire hydrant systems, enhance safety beyond individual properties.
Case Studies and Lessons Learned
Many regions in California have observed that homes incorporating multi-layered fireproof systems—ranging from specialized roofing to robust insulation—fare better when wildfires strike. The “miracle house” phenomenon isn’t luck; it’s the culmination of planning, materials research, and responsible housekeeping. In several case studies:
Reduced Internal Temperatures: Properties outfitted with advanced thermal blankets reported significantly lower internal temperatures during wildfire events, minimizing structural damage and even preventing interior items from catching fire.
Fewer Ember Intrusions: Sealed vents and insulated crawl spaces lowered the likelihood of ember entry, often the initial trigger for residential fires.
Faster Recovery: Even in worst-case scenarios where external damages occurred, the interior of these homes often remained habitable, accelerating the reconstruction process.
Toward a Safer Future: Upgrading Regulations and Materials
As climate change continues to intensify the severity of wildfire seasons, the need for more rigorous regulations and superior fireproof materials becomes ever clearer. Legislators and building officials are already proposing amendments that would mandate advanced insulation systems like AS17-s Thermal Blanket, particularly in high-risk zones where wildfire activity is most frequent.
Mandatory Fireproofing: Some proposals include making fire-resistant barriers and high-performance insulation compulsory for all new constructions or major renovations in designated wildfire corridors.
Financial Incentives: Tax credits or rebates for installing advanced fireproof materials could motivate homeowners to upgrade beyond standard building code requirements.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating residents on the importance of creating defensible space and selecting the right insulation can make communities more resilient overall.
Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Fire Safety
From the miraculous survival of certain “unscathed” homes to the recognized value of robust materials like AS17-s Thermal Blanket, one lesson emerges: fire safety in California demands a holistic, community-wide strategy. Upgraded building codes, cutting-edge fireproofing technologies, and consistent homeowner vigilance work together to offer the strongest defense against devastating wildfires.
While no single product or method can eliminate risk entirely, the key lies in combining preventive action with advanced protective materials. In this sense, the best fire insurance truly is prevention—and prevention hinges on building with the future in mind. By embracing innovations like AS17-s Thermal Blanket and advocating for stricter, forward-thinking building regulations, Californians can continue to safeguard their homes, their neighborhoods, and their peace of mind in an era of unpredictable wildfire seasons.
Thermal tape, also known as double-sided thermal adhesive tape, combines high thermal conductivity with strong adhesive properties. It is designed to fill gaps between heat sources and metal components, effectively dissipating heat generated by electronic products. Thermal tape is often reinforced with materials like glass fiber or polyimide to enhance its strength and dielectric breakdown voltage.
Advantages:
Ease of Use: Thermal tape is easy to apply; simply cut to size, peel off the backing, and stick it onto the surfaces.
Adhesive Functionality: It eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners like screws, simplifying assembly processes.
Versatility: Suitable for small chips on motherboards, LED lamps, and other small electronic components.
Disadvantages:
Limited Reusability: Once applied and removed, thermal tape generally cannot be reused.
Adhesive Residue: Removal can sometimes leave adhesive residue on components.
Thermal paste, also known as thermal grease or compound, is a thermally conductive material used to fill air gaps between heat-generating components and heat sinks. It is particularly effective in maximizing heat transfer by filling microscopic imperfections on surfaces.
Advantages:
High Thermal Conductivity: Offers superior heat transfer capabilities compared to other TIMs.
Flexibility: Can be applied as a thin layer to conform to uneven surfaces, making it ideal for CPUs and GPUs.
Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than thermal pads.
Disadvantages:
Application Complexity: Requires careful application to avoid mess and ensure even coverage.
Maintenance: Can dry out over time, necessitating periodic reapplication.
Thermal pads are pre-formed solid materials that provide a consistent thickness for uniform pressure distribution between components. They are commonly used in applications where ease of use and electrical insulation are important.
Advantages:
Ease of Installation: Pre-cut and easy to handle, reducing the risk of application errors.
Electrical Insulation: Provides an added layer of protection by preventing electrical conductivity between components.
Non-Drying: Unlike thermal paste, thermal pads do not dry out over time, offering a longer-term solution without frequent maintenance.
Disadvantages:
Lower Thermal Conductivity: Typically offers less efficient heat transfer compared to high-quality thermal pastes.
Single Use: Once removed, they cannot be reused and must be replaced with new pads.
Conclusion
Choosing between thermal tape, thermal paste, and thermal pads depends on specific application requirements:
Thermal Tape is ideal for applications requiring both adhesion and heat dissipation without mechanical fasteners.
Thermal Paste excels in high-performance scenarios where maximum heat transfer is needed but requires careful application.
Thermal Pads offer simplicity and insulation benefits but may fall short in scenarios demanding high thermal conductivity.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on factors such as ease of use, thermal performance needs, electrical insulation requirements, and cost considerations. Each material has its strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable for different applications in electronic device manufacturing.
Suitable for applications requiring high electrical insulation
Less risk of contamination in sensitive environments
Can offer higher thermal conductivity than some silicone-based options
Disadvantages:
May have lower mechanical flexibility compared to silicone-based TIMs
Performance can vary significantly depending on the specific material composition
Choosing the Right Thermal Interface Material
When selecting between silicone-based and silicone-free TIMs, consider the following factors:
Thermal Conductivity: Silicone-based TIMs generally offer higher thermal conductivity.
Electrical Insulation: Silicone-free TIMs provide better electrical insulation due to lower conductivity.
Temperature Resistance: Silicone-based materials excel in high-temperature applications.
Outgassing Concerns: Choose silicone-free options if contamination is a concern.
Cost Considerations: Evaluate the long-term benefits against initial costs.
Application Requirements: Consider specific industry regulations or restrictions on silicone use.
Both silicone-based and silicone-free TIMs have their place in modern electronic thermal management. Silicone-based materials are ideal for high-temperature environments requiring robust mechanical properties, while silicone-free options are better suited for applications needing superior electrical insulation and reduced contamination risk.Carefully assess your application’s specific requirements to determine which type of TIM is most suitable for your needs.
Thermal grease, also known as thermal paste, is a viscous compound typically made of silicone or ceramic-based materials mixed with thermally conductive fillers. Its main advantages include:
Superior Thermal Conductivity: Thermal grease can fill microscopic air gaps, providing better heat transfer efficiency.
High Adaptability: It easily conforms to irregular surfaces, ensuring maximum contact area.
Thin Application: Can achieve ultra-thin bond lines of 10-20 microns, further reducing thermal resistance.
However, applying thermal grease requires some skill and may dry out or experience pump-out effects over time.
Characteristics of Thermal Pads
Thermal pads are pre-formed solid materials, usually made of silicone or other polymers, manufactured in specific shapes and thicknesses. Their key benefits include:
Ease of Use: Can be quickly installed without special skills.
Cleanliness: Less likely to make a mess compared to thermal grease.
Reusability: Can often be reused multiple times in certain situations.
Shock Absorption: Able to absorb vibrations, protecting sensitive components.
However, thermal pads generally have lower thermal conductivity compared to high-quality thermal grease and may not fully conform to surface irregularities.
Application Comparison
Feature
Thermal Grease
Thermal Pad
Thermal Efficiency
High
Medium
Application Difficulty
Medium
Low
Cleanliness
Lower
High
Conformity to Irregular Surfaces
Excellent
Fair
Shock Absorption
Low
High
Reusability
Low
Medium to High
Choosing the Right TIM
Choose Thermal Grease: When you need optimal thermal performance and have the ability to apply it precisely. Ideal for high-performance CPUs, GPUs, etc.
Choose Thermal Pads: When ease of use and cleanliness are priorities, or when shock absorption is needed. Suitable for laptops, automotive electronics, etc.
Conclusion
Both thermal grease and thermal pads have their strengths and weaknesses. The choice depends on your specific application requirements. For scenarios demanding extremely high thermal performance, thermal grease might be the better option. In situations requiring quick, clean installation or shock absorption, thermal pads could be more suitable. Regardless of your choice, ensuring proper application is key to achieving optimal heat dissipation.
Thermal Gel, also known as thermal encapsulation gel or thermal RTV gel, is a low-viscosity, flame-retardant, two-component silicone-based thermal encapsulation material.
Key features:
Can cure at room temperature or with heat for accelerated curing
Possesses certain adhesive properties
Forms a rubber-like gel state after curing, which cannot be melted
Thermal conductivity higher than Thermal Pad but lower than Thermal Paste (Thermal Grease)
Difficult to separate bonded objects after curing
Suitable for applications requiring one-time bonding
Characteristics of Thermal Pad
Thermal Pad is a pre-formed sheet of thermally conductive material designed to fill gaps between heat sources and heat sinks.
Key features:
Thermal conductivity ranging from 0.8 to 15 W/m·K
Available in various thicknesses and sizes
Easy to install and replace
Provides electrical insulation
May offer shock absorption properties
Thermal Gel vs. Thermal Pad Comparison
Application Method:
Thermal Gel: Requires automatic dispensing machine, more resilient and less likely to dry out compared to grease.
Thermal Pad: Direct placement without additional processing
Curing Process:
Thermal Gel: Needs time to cure, forming a stable structure
Thermal Pad: No curing required, ready for immediate use
Thermal Performance:
Thermal Gel: Generally better than Thermal Pad, but may be lower than high-end thermal pastes
Thermal Pad: Good thermal performance, typically lower than liquid TIMs
Gap Filling Ability:
Thermal Gel: Excellent for filling irregular surfaces and microscopic gaps
Thermal Pad: Pre-formed shape may limit ability to fill highly irregular surfaces
Adhesive Properties:
Thermal Gel: Adhesive, difficult to separate after curing
Thermal Pad: Usually non-adhesive, easy to replace
Ease of Use:
Thermal Gel: Requires precise mixing and application, potentially more complex
Thermal Pad: Simple to use, suitable for mass production.
Selection Recommendations
Choosing between Thermal Gel and Thermal Pad depends on your specific application requirements:
For filling complex shapes or providing additional adhesion, Thermal Gel might be the better choice.
For applications requiring frequent maintenance or replacement, or in mass production scenarios prioritizing consistency and convenience, Thermal Pad may be more suitable.
Consider thermal requirements, installation environment, maintenance frequency, and cost factors when making your final decision.
Regardless of the chosen solution, ensuring proper application and installation is crucial for achieving optimal thermal management and extending the lifespan of electronic devices.
Moldability: Thermal putty is a soft, moldable material that can easily fill gaps and conform to uneven surfaces between heat sources and heat sinks. This flexibility makes it ideal for applications with high mechanical tolerances.
Thermal Conductivity: It offers strong thermal conductivity and electrical insulation properties, maintaining performance over repeated heating and cooling cycles.
Application: Thermal putty can be applied using dispensing machines, making it suitable for high-volume applications. It is particularly useful in scenarios where the exact thickness of the TIM needs to be adjusted on-site.
Advantages:
Versatility: Its ability to conform to various shapes and fill gaps of different sizes makes it more versatile than pre-cut thermal pads.
Cost-Effectiveness: Thermal putty can be more cost-effective over time due to its longevity and reduced need for replacement compared to thermal pads that may dry out or lose efficiency.
Performance at High Temperatures: It retains its thermal properties better at higher temperatures compared to some thermal pads.
Pre-Fabricated: Thermal pads are solid, pre-fabricated materials that come in various thicknesses and sizes. They are typically made from silicone or other flexible materials enhanced with thermally conductive fillers.
Ease of Use: They are easy to install by simply peeling off a protective film and placing them between the heat source and sink.
Advantages:
Simplicity: Easy to handle and apply without the mess associated with pastes or putties.
Electrical Insulation: Provides good electrical insulation, making them suitable for electronic devices where voltage is present across the interface.
Disadvantages Compared to Putty:
Limited Conformability: Thermal pads may not conform as well to irregular surfaces or fill gaps as effectively as thermal putty.
Potential for Drying Out: Over time, thermal pads can dry out, reducing their effectiveness in heat transfer.
Fixed Thickness: The pre-set thickness of thermal pads can be a limitation in applications requiring precise thickness adjustments.
Conclusion: Why Thermal Putty Wins
Thermal putty offers several advantages over thermal pads, particularly in applications requiring flexibility, high mechanical tolerance, and long-term reliability. Its ability to mold into various shapes and fill uneven gaps makes it a versatile choice for complex assemblies. Additionally, its cost-effectiveness and superior performance at high temperatures provide significant benefits in maintaining efficient heat dissipation over time.While thermal pads are easier to apply and provide good electrical insulation, their limitations in conformability and potential for drying out make them less suitable for applications demanding precise heat management solutions. Therefore, in scenarios where adaptability and long-term performance are critical, thermal putty emerges as the superior option.
Thermal putty is a soft, pliable material designed to fill gaps and provide thermal conductivity between heat-generating components and heat sinks. Its unique characteristics include:
Excellent Gap-Filling Ability: Thermal putty can easily conform to irregular surfaces and fill larger gaps, making it ideal for applications where components do not align perfectly.
High Compressibility: This material maintains its performance under stress without flowing vertically, ensuring reliable contact between surfaces.
Durability: Thermal putty is resistant to drying out, allowing it to maintain its thermal conductivity over extended periods without needing frequent reapplication.
What is Thermal Gel?
Thermal gel is a versatile TIM that combines the properties of both thermal paste and adhesive gels. It typically has a gel-like consistency that allows for easy application. Key features of thermal gel include:
User-Friendly Application: The gel consistency makes it easier to apply compared to traditional pastes, reducing the risk of air bubbles during application.
Non-Curing Properties: Unlike some adhesives, thermal gels remain soft and do not cure over time, making them long-term stability.
Good Thermal Conductivity: While generally offering lower conductivity than high-grade thermal pastes, thermal gels still provide adequate performance for many applications.
Comparing Applications
Feature
Thermal Putty
Thermal Gel
Application Method
Moldable; fills larger gaps
Gel-like; easy to spread
Gap Filling
Excellent for uneven surfaces
Suitable for small to moderate gaps
Temperature Stability
High stability across various temperatures
Remains soft; resists drying out and hardening over time
Reusability
Can be reused without significant loss of performance
Reusable; easy to remove and reapply
Choosing Between Thermal Putty and Thermal Gel
The decision between thermal putty and thermal gel depends on your specific application requirements:
Opt for Thermal Gel when ease of application is paramount, especially in mass production settings or when frequent maintenance is expected. Its user-friendly nature makes it a great choice for beginners or those looking for quick application methods.
Use Thermal Putty when you need a flexible solution that can accommodate larger gaps or uneven surfaces. It is particularly effective in environments where components may shift or vibrate, such as automotive or industrial applications.
Conclusion
Both thermal putty and thermal gel serve vital roles in managing heat in electronic devices. By understanding their differences, you can choose the right material that meets your performance requirements. Whether you prioritize gap-filling capability with thermal putty or the ease of application with thermal gel, making an informed choice will enhance the reliability and efficiency of your products.
Thermal Grease, also known as thermal paste, is a semi-fluid substance that helps to fill microscopic gaps between heat-generating components and heat sinks. Its primary function is to ensure a smooth transfer of heat by minimizing air gaps, which can impede thermal conductivity. Thermal grease is widely used in high-performance applications, such as in computers, telecommunications, and automotive electronics.
Key Benefits of Thermal Grease
High Thermal Conductivity: Designed for optimal heat dissipation, making it suitable for performance-critical environments. Thin Application: Applied in a fine layer, reducing the possibility of material waste. Requires Regular Maintenance: Over time, thermal grease can dry out and may need reapplication to maintain its effectiveness.
What is Thermal Putty?
Thermal putty, on the other hand, is a more malleable material that is designed to conform to irregular surfaces or large gaps between components. While it lacks the high thermal conductivity of thermal grease, its flexibility makes it ideal for applications where component alignment is imperfect, or larger gaps need to be filled.
Key Benefits of Thermal Putty:
Gap-Filling Capability: Unlike thermal grease, thermal putty can fill larger gaps more efficiently. Less Frequent Maintenance: Thermal putty is generally more durable and stable over time, requiring less frequent reapplication. Lower Thermal Conductivity: Typically, thermal putty doesn’t conduct heat as efficiently as thermal grease, but it still offers a reasonable solution for medium-performance applications.
Thermal Grease vs. Thermal Putty – Key Differences
To determine which material is better for your needs, it’s important to consider a few key differences:
Thermal Conductivity: Thermal grease typically offers higher thermal conductivity than thermal putty, making it the go-to solution for high-performance electronic devices. Application: Thermal grease requires careful, thin application to prevent leakage and ensure even heat transfer. Thermal putty, however, is easier to apply and is more forgiving of uneven surfaces. Durability: While thermal grease may dry out and degrade over time, thermal putty is more stable, lasting longer without the need for reapplication. Gap Size: Thermal putty is better suited for situations where there is a larger gap between components, while thermal grease is ideal for tightly fitted surfaces.
Thermal Grease vs. Thermal Putty When it comes to managing heat in electronic devices, both Thermal Grease and Thermal Putty are widely used. They serve similar functions by improving heat transfer between components like CPUs, GPUs, and heat sinks. However, these two materials differ significantly in performance, application, and suitability for various electronic systems. Understanding the unique properties of both will help you select the right material for your thermal management needs.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Thermal Grease: If you are dealing with high-performance electronics, such as CPUs, GPUs, or other heat-critical components that require excellent thermal conductivity and precision application.
Choose Thermal Putty: If your application involves larger gaps, uneven surfaces, or less critical thermal management needs. It offers a more durable, maintenance-free solution for medium-performance systems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both thermal grease and thermal putty serve vital roles in thermal management, but their applications vary based on specific needs. For performance-critical environments where heat dissipation is paramount, thermal grease offers superior thermal conductivity. Meanwhile, thermal putty provides a more flexible, long-lasting solution for filling larger gaps in less demanding settings.
