Bayer MaterialScience Provides Missing Piece for Fraen's Optics Division LED Puzzle

Santa Clara, CA, February 09, 2012 --(PR.com)-- Fraen's Optics Division wanted to produce a high-performing optic for use in light emitting diode (LED) lighting to meet the general illumination market’s needs, as well as the company’s own performance targets. With the help of Bayer MaterialScience LLC, Fraen was able to find the key to its latest product, the Twelve LED Troffer Reflector, which produces the beam pattern needed to replace the recessed fluorescent light with an LED solution.

Fraen's Optics Division injection molds a flame-retardant grade of Bayer’s Makrolon® polycarbonate to form the Twelve LED Troffer Reflector. The optical efficiency of the Makrolon polycarbonate material allowed Fraen to develop a reflector that delivers a pleasing, diffuse illumination that is suitable for use in a wide range of lighting applications and fixtures, including general interior lighting, troffer fixtures and low bay commercial and architectural fixtures.

The material Fraen used, Makrolon 6265X polycarbonate, is a high-flow resin with easy release properties. The grade has earned Underwriter Laboratories’ (UL) 94 V-0 rating at 1.5 mm. In addition to supplying its plastic, Bayer also provided Fraen Corporation with technical expertise.

“Not only were we impressed with the properties of this plastic, we were also able to process it using our existing machinery – without having to make any modifications or upgrades – which was beneficial from a manufacturing perspective,” said David Cohen, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Fraen's Optics Division. “Bayer personnel assisted us with specifications and performance criteria.”

“As a leading provider of materials for the LED lighting market, we are always inspired by the challenge of helping our customers bring new products to market,” said Kevin Dunay, market segment leader, Electrical/Electronics (EE) Polycarbonates, Bayer MaterialScience LLC. “The Twelve LED Troffer Reflector is the latest example of how Bayer works collaboratively with its customers.”

The Twelve LED Troffer Reflector is available directly from Fraen's Optics Division or through its designated distributors.

To discuss this or other applications, or Bayer’s materials for LEDs, stop by Bayer’s booth #502 at Strategies in Light 2012.

About Fraen Corporation:
Fraen's Optics Division specializes in the design, development and manufacture of optics for high-powered LEDs. Fraen offers a wide range of standard products for all major LED makers as well as innovative custom optical solutions. Fraen’s other businesses include its Advanced Manufacturing Division, which manufactures stepper motors; its Custom Manufacturing Division, which specializes in lit plastic parts and complex stampings; and Fraen Machining Corporation, which manufactures precision-turned metal components.

About Bayer MaterialScience LLC:
Bayer MaterialScience LLC is one of the leading producers of polymers and high-performance plastics in North America and is part of the global Bayer MaterialScience business with approximately 14,700 employees at 30 production sites around the world and 2010 sales of 10.2 billion euros. The company manufactures high-tech polymer materials and develops innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction, medical, and sports and leisure industries. Sustainability is central to Bayer MaterialScience LLC’s business and is based around the key areas of innovation, product stewardship, excellence in corporate management, social responsibility and respect for the environment.

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