What Is RoHS Compliant Wire Protector Sleeve?

The global wires and cables market is projected to grow to $294.73 billion by 2029, despite the drawbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Wires and cables are used in a wide variety of different end-use products, and understanding the need for RoHS compliance in applicable industries is crucial. In this blog, we’ll discuss what RoHS compliance is, why it’s crucial for various industries, and the requirements for getting one.

What is RoHS compliance?

RoHS stands for Restriction of Hazardous Substances, which refers to a set of regulations designed to limit the use of certain hazardous materials in manufacturing electrical and electronic equipment. Started as a directive implemented by the European Union, RoHS compliance aims to promote the health and safety of consumers and the environment by reducing the presence of six hazardous substances in electrical and electronic products, namely: lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls (PBBs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs).

Why does RoHS compliance matter?

For businesses selling applicable products within the EU or selling to reseller or distributors that sell in the EU, failure to meet RoHS compliance can result in hefty fines and even jail time. The specific penalties have been left up to the individual countries within the EU. For businesses that don’t sell in the EU or have resellers in the EU, RoHS compliance is simply about demonstrating commitment to producing products that are environmentally friendly and free from harmful substances. While RoHS regulations were initially implemented in the European Union, the regulations have since been adopted as-is or modified in many countries around the world due to the pressing concern for environmental sustainability and health and well-being.

Within the US, California led the way in 2007 adopting a modified version of the EU RoHS regulations that restricts only lead, mercury, cadmium and hexavalent chromium. Since then, many other states including Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin have developed e-waste and RoHS like requirements for businesses operating and selling within their borders.

What industries follow RoHS compliance?

The scope of the RoHS directive spans a wide range of cable and wire manufacturers for products from kitchen appliances to mobile phones and lighting equipment. Here are several industries in which RoHS-compliant wire protector sleeves are essential:

• Electrical Industry

The electrical industry was the initial target of RoHS regulations. Historically, electrical components were manufactured with hazardous materials, but not with the implementation of RoHS regulations, material selection, testing and quality control measures are helping to ensure the safety of all those who manufacture, use, dispose of or recycle electronics and electronic components.

• Manufacturing Industry

Wire and cable play a crucial role in the manufacturing sector, supplying materials for various fields like electronics, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods, and more. Complying with the RoHS standards means that potential risks are eliminated or minimized for manufacturers, users, workers, and the environment. In addition to materials, RoHS regulations have improved manufacturing processes including advancements in lead-free soldering techniques to name just one!

• Transportation Industry

The transportation industry utilizes wire and cable products in electronic components within cars, aircraft, railways, and other vehicles. As the transportation sector relies on electrical systems to operate efficiently and safely, RoHS compliant products protect workers in the industry, end-users, mechanics, and the planet from handling hazardous materials.

• Aerospace Industry

From aircraft systems and avionics to spacecraft and satellites, wire and cable systems are integral to transmitting power, data, and signals. Having RoHS compliant wire, cable, and wire protector sleeves in the aerospace industry minimizes the risk of failures due to toxic substance exposures. It also ensures the health and safety of aerospace personnel and passengers exposed to aircraft materials during flights.

What are the requirements for RoHS compliance?

The RoHS Guide outlines the requirements for RoHS compliance for all companies who manufacture and sell applicable products. This applies to a wide range of electrical and electronic products, including household appliances, telecommunication equipment, electrical tools, and more.

Here’s a full list of restricted substances and their maximum concentration levels:

• Cadmium (Cd): < 100 ppm
• Lead (Pb): < 1000 ppm
• Mercury (Hg): < 1000 ppm
• Hexavalent Chromium: (Cr VI) < 1000 ppm
• Polybrominated Biphenyls (PBB): < 1000 ppm
• Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDE): < 1000 ppm
• Bis(2-Ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP): < 1000 ppm
• Benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP): < 1000 ppm
• Dibutyl phthalate (DBP): < 1000 ppm
• Diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP): < 1000 ppm

Find RoHS Compliant Products at Titan Electronics

"As a supplier of wire protector sleeve and cable management solutions for many of the industries impacted by RoHS regulations, we understand the need to ensure your components are compliant, says Kathryn Wigginton, Operations Manager for Titan Electronics. "That’s why we are proud to provide our customers with RoHS compliant wire protector sleeving options that meet or exceed RoHS guidelines." 

Browse RoHS compliant product offerings in our catalog or contact Titan Electronics today to discuss your project requirements.