Siemens and Envalior Pioneer Sustainable Electrical Components with Bio-Based Materials
Innovative Partnership for Green Technology
Siemens Smart Infrastructure introduces a breakthrough in sustainable electrical components. Their new coupling relays feature housings made from 70% bio-based plastic. This innovative material utilizes waste cooking oil as its primary raw material source. Envalior developed the specialized AkulonK225-KS B-MB plastic in close collaboration with Siemens engineers.
Transforming Waste into High-Performance Materials
The bio-based plastic originates from used cooking oil discarded by food industries and households. This approach avoids competition with food production chains. Envalior applies mass balance principles to transform this waste stream into engineering-grade plastics. The process prevents incineration and supports circular economy objectives.
Three Versatile Relay Variants for Industrial Applications
The SIRIUS 3RQ4 coupling relay series offers three specialized configurations. The first variant withstands harsh environments and meets explosive atmosphere safety standards. It features optional gold-plated contacts for low-current applications. The second design enables quick replacement during operation with plug-in functionality. The third variant utilizes semiconductor technology for silent, high-frequency switching operations.
Enhanced Performance and Sustainability Benefits
These relays demonstrate significant environmental and operational improvements. The semiconductor version reduces energy losses by 33% compared to previous models. All variants eliminate hazardous materials including halogens and PFAS. The slim design optimizes control cabinet space utilization. Furthermore, the products support easy disassembly and recycling at end-of-life.
Technical Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence
Envalior’s material achieves UL94 V-0 rating at just 0.4mm thickness while maintaining excellent flow characteristics. Siemens manufactures the relays using fully automated processes at their Amberg facility. This localized production shortens European supply chains and reduces carbon footprint. The packaging utilizes sustainable cardboard with digital documentation access.
Corporate Commitment to Environmental Goals
Both companies demonstrate strong sustainability commitments. Envalior currently powers over 50% of global operations with renewable energy. Their 2030 targets include 100% renewable electricity and 35% emission reductions. Siemens continues expanding its EcoTech portfolio with environmentally optimized products.
Industry Impact and Future Implications
This collaboration establishes new standards for sustainable electrical components. The successful integration of bio-based materials in high-performance applications opens new possibilities for other product categories. The partnership demonstrates how cross-industry cooperation can drive meaningful environmental progress without compromising technical requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these relays environmentally friendly?
The housing contains 70% bio-based material from waste cooking oil, eliminates hazardous substances, reduces energy consumption, and supports full recyclability.
How does the bio-based plastic perform compared to conventional materials?
It maintains high heat resistance, excellent chemical resistance, and achieves UL94 V-0 flame rating at 0.4mm thickness while offering superior environmental credentials.
What are the main application areas for these relays?
They serve harsh environments, explosive atmospheres, railway systems, and applications requiring frequent switching or quick maintenance operations.
How does the mass balance approach work?
This methodology allocates bio-based content through certification systems, enabling waste materials to replace fossil resources in production processes.
Where are these relays manufactured?
Siemens produces them at their automated facility in Amberg, Germany, optimizing supply chains for European markets.
About the Companies
Siemens AG drives digital and sustainability transformations across industry, infrastructure, and mobility sectors. The technology leader applies industrial AI to create practical solutions for efficient factories and sustainable cities.
Envalior emerged from the merger of Lanxess and DSM engineering materials divisions. The global specialist develops sustainable high-performance materials for mobility, electronics, and consumer goods markets.
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