BizLink uses silicone versatility in ‘PFAS*-free’ special cables for industrial and electrical appliance applications

Potential PFAS alternatives for cable constructions that prioritize heat resistance and flexibility

Roth, Germany, 03 March 2025 - BizLink processes numerous thermoplastics, elastomers, and thermoplastic elastomers for customized cable developments. The company uses liquid LSR (Liquid Silicone Rubber) and solid HTV (High-Temperature-Vulcanized Silicone) in its silicone cables, for demanding industrial, medical or infrastructural applications, as well as for electrical household devices. In the event of a possible future ban on fluoropolymers, part of the so-called PFAS, silicone could be an alternative for simple cable constructions: For example, whenever the temperature resistance and flexibility of a cable are more important than its minimum diameter and notch strength, or whenever the friction between individual wires will not cause problems with fixed installations.

BizLink has the expertise to optimize customer-specific cable systems and the bulk cables used precisely for their respective applications. In this way, BizLink’s interconnect solutions ensure the durability, function, and reliability of industrial, medical and other devices. The application-related requirements and specifications, such as resistance to electrical, electromagnetic, mechanical, thermal, and chemical interference, determine the cable system and bulk cable design and the choice of materials used.

BizLink realizes demanding customer requirements, preferably with LSR in addition to many other materials, in the production of individual special cable solutions for medical technology applications. In contrast, HTV is predominantly used for silicone cables for devices in measurement and control technology, sensor technology, mechanical and plant engineering, and power and control cables for electrical devices (the so-called ‘white goods’).

“Our customers often ask for improvements to existing cable designs or standard cables. In many cases, we have been able to realize exciting performance improvements, even with cost benefits.” Dr. Lorenzo Quarantelly from BizLink silitherm s.r.l. says. “Our silicone cables particularly excel through their high flexibility and heat resistance.”


Silicone as an alternative to fluoropolymers

Compared to fluoropolymers, silicone is more flexible and has a similar temperature resistance from -60°C to 200°C. As a halogen-free material, it also does not develop any toxic gases in the event of a fire. Last but not least, silicone cables may also be less expensive in direct comparison to fluoropolymers. Concerning flame resistance, electrical properties (no high data rates) and dielectric strength, friction/abrasion, dynamic and mechanic characteristics, wall thickness (minimum 0.3 mm for extrusion; 0.4 mm UL & 0.6 mm VDE for 300/500 V) and notch strength silicone cables do not come close to cables made with fluoroplastics. Chemical resistance would need to be checked case by case.

Thus, silicone can be considered a favorable alternative to PTFE, FEP, eTFE, or PFA (PFAS) for cable components if cable constructions are not very complex and flexibility and/or heat resistance are crucial to the special cable construction.

Even if silicone is not the most suitable material—for example, if the cable’s diameter, outgassing, abrasion, or sliding properties (including inside the cable) are key requirements for the cable design—BizLink can provide support in selecting alternative materials, such as PP or TPE, to replace fluoroplastics.

Without a doubt, every cable must have all its components rebuilt to ensure that it has its previous properties, but with ‘PFAS-free’ material. BizLink has the necessary expertise in alternative materials and design options, as well as the process technology to implement any desired ‘PFAS-free’ properties. Individual solutions must be examined on a case-by-case basis, and BizLink is able to help its customers do this.


*The scope and timing of a PFAS ban have not yet been determined. In the discussion about a possible ban, BizLink advocates for a differentiated view of the materials. There is currently no commercially available material that can fully cover all the properties of PFAS, which are needed for customized cables in important industrial, medical, and other applications.


About BizLink

Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Silicon Valley, USA, BizLink is dedicated to making transformative connections that bring visionary ideas to life. We specialize in providing essential components such as wire harnesses, connectors, and cables to a broad spectrum of industries including IT Infrastructure, Client Peripherals, Optical Fiber Communications, Telecom & Networking, Electrical Appliances, Medical Equipment, Factory Automation & Machinery, Semiconductor Technology, Healthcare, Motor Vehicles, Mobility, Marine, Industrial, and Solar Energy.

Our global presence, with flexible production resources and R&D teams across America, Europe, and Asia, allows us to proactively drive innovation and enable future possibilities. At BizLink, our customer-centric approach and commitment to relentless advancement, along with a strong focus on sustainability and compliance in both our products and processes, empower us to deliver zero-distance service and continual performance optimization, making a positive and meaningful impact worldwide. We turn possibilities into reality; furthermore, we connect possibilities to world-changing visions.

Contact person

Birte Wendeln
Communication Manager
Industrial Solutions Business Group
Phone: +49 4491 291-173
E-Mail: birte_wendeln@bizlinktech.com