Cool Solutions: Keeping Batteries and Business Running Smoothly

Background:

A new innovative company specializing in developing lithium-ion battery solutions for heavy machinery and low-speed electric vehicles contacted PGC for assistance sourcing a thermal gap pad. A leader in offering reliable, safe, sustainable battery solutions for heavy machinery and low-speed electric vehicles, with a vision to transform their industrial and commercial development programs for lithium-ion modules and packs, sought our team for partnership. They were keen to leverage our extensive network of quality suppliers and our commitment to creating customized solutions for specific applications.

Challenges:

The customer, with limited experience and knowledge in sourcing thermal gap pad products, required assistance from PGC to find a custom-made pad that met specific criteria:

• Thickness: Under 1 mm
• Thermal Conductivity: At least 1 W/m-K°
• Composition: No fiberglass reinforcement layer
• Design: Custom die-cut dimensions

Thanks to PGC's extensive supplier network and the expertise of our engineers in thermally conductive materials, identifying the right product was straightforward. Our team grasped these heat transfer solutions' essential parameters and performance metrics and was well-equipped to suggest suitable options and facilitate a smooth custom die-cutting procedure.

Solution:

To begin the process, PGC's engineering team thoroughly searched for a supplier that could provide a part meeting the customer's requirements. We started with one of our trusted suppliers, Henkel-Bergquist, a well-known company in the gap pad industry. Then, we expanded our search to include additional suppliers to expedite the process and increase our chances of finding the ideal product. Ultimately, the two suppliers recommended materials that met and exceeded the thermal requirements, available at a precise thickness of 1 mm. However, we chose to go with Henkel-Bergquist due to their proximity to PGC, the reliability of their established product lines, which ensured quicker turnaround times and consistent quality, and their proven track record in delivering high-performance materials for thermal management solutions.

Results:

After producing and distributing 20 prototypes for testing, the customer approved our recommended part. Within two weeks, we provided pricing for the part. We were invited to complete the customer's new supplier application, clearly reflecting their confidence in our service and the successful collaboration between PGC and the customer.

The customer appreciated PGC's expertise and our ability to efficiently convert raw material sheets into precisely cut parts. Our proactive approach, quick response times, and technical knowledge left a lasting impression, further solidifying PGC as a trusted partner in delivering customized thermal management solutions for high-performance applications.