2026-10-16
A European manufacturer of automotive and industrial relays needed a dependable encapsulation solution for its 12 V and 24 V power relays used in engine control units (ECUs), electric window modules, and industrial control panels. These relays operate under continuous vibration, wide temperature swings from −30 °C to 130 °C, and long-term exposure to humidity, salt spray, and automotive fluids. Field returns showed that moisture ingress and silver-contact corrosion were the leading causes of premature relay failure. The customer therefore required a potting compound that could extend service life, secure the internal components, and comply with the EU RoHS Directive.
After evaluating several candidates, the customer selected HN-5508A/B, a general-purpose two-component epoxy potting compound with a 5:1 mix ratio by weight. Its low viscosity and long pot life of 2–3 hours at 25 °C let operators pot batches of relays in sequence without premature gelation, while the excellent flowability ensures complete penetration into the narrow winding and terminal cavities. The material cures at room temperature in 12–16 hours or can be accelerated at 60–80 °C for 1.5–2 hours, giving the factory flexible scheduling options.
| Property | Value | Benefit for Relay Potting |
|---|---|---|
| Mix ratio (A:B) | 5:1 by weight | Simple, accurate weighing for consistent batches |
| Pot life (25 °C) | 2–3 h | Enough working time for multi-cavity potting |
| Dielectric strength | 20–22 kV/mm | Reliable insulation between coil and contacts |
| Hardness | Shore D 85–95 | Rigid body that secures internal parts against vibration |
| Water absorption | < 0.03 % (24 h) | Blocks moisture that causes contact corrosion |
| Heat distortion temp. | 130–150 °C | Stable performance in high-temperature zones |
| Flame retardancy | Flame-retardant grade | Meets safety requirements for electrical assemblies |
HN-5508A/B proved to be a cost-effective, RoHS-compliant potting solution for automotive and industrial relays. Its combination of low viscosity, high dielectric strength, and mechanical hardness protects delicate relay components from moisture, vibration, and heat, delivering a measurable improvement in field reliability and customer satisfaction.