Siemens Smart Infrastructure has introduced its latest SIRIUS 3RQ4 series of coupling relays featuring housings made from a bio-based plastic developed in partnership with Envalior B.V. The new material, Akulon® K225-KS B-MB, consists of 70 percent renewable content derived from used cooking oil (UCO), a biomass waste product collected from restaurants, the food industry, and households. By repurposing UCO — which is unsuitable for human or animal consumption — the companies are advancing a mass balance approach that reduces emissions, supports circular material use, and avoids waste incineration.
Siemens’ SIRIUS 3RQ4 coupling relays use housings made from 70% bio-based plastic derived from used cooking oil, developed in collaboration with Envalior. (Photo courtesy of Siemens)
“Collaborating with Envalior to create this bio-based plastic is an important step towards advancing the use of more sustainable materials in our electrical products. We are pleased to work with Envalior as another strong partner on our journey towards a more environmentally friendly portfolio,” said Andreas Matthé, CEO of Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure.
The SIRIUS 3RQ4 coupling relay is available in three industrial variants designed to meet diverse automation and control requirements. Each offers enhanced sustainability, reliability, and performance throughout its lifecycle. The housing material developed by Envalior provides high heat stability, halogen-free flame retardancy, and excellent chemical resistance, making it well-suited for demanding applications across energy, mobility, and manufacturing sectors. The coupling relays are fully recyclable at end of life and meet the strict criteria of the Siemens EcoTech label, which includes up to 33 percent lower energy losses in the semiconductor variant compared to previous generations.
“Partnering with Siemens on the development of the SIRIUS 3RQ4 series demonstrates how renewable, high-performance materials can directly support industrial sustainability,” said Dr. Marc Rudolf, Global Key Account Manager at Envalior. “A key success factor was achieving excellent flow behavior for thin-wall components and a UL94 V-0 rating at just 0.4 millimeters, while maintaining outstanding mechanical performance and an exceptionally high bio-based content.”
Production of the SIRIUS 3RQ4 series takes place at Siemens’ Amberg plant in Germany, where advanced automation and digitalization ensure consistent quality and reduced supply chain footprint. The relays are packaged in recyclable cardboard and include digital access to all operating instructions and technical documentation via an embedded device ID link.
Beyond material innovation, Envalior continues to expand its renewable energy adoption and decarbonization initiatives. The company covered more than 50 percent of its global electricity needs with renewable energy in 2024 and aims to reach 100 percent by 2030. Envalior also targets a 35 percent reduction in total emissions by that year through the implementation of local sustainability initiatives and climate-friendly heat sources.
About Envalior
Envalior B.V. is a global industry expert in engineering materials with over 4,000 employees worldwide. Formed in 2023 through the merger of Lanxess Performance Materials and DSM Engineering Materials, the company develops sustainable and high-performance polymers, including PA6, PA66, PBT, PPS, and thermoplastic composites. Envalior serves customers in mobility, electronics, and consumer goods markets with a strong focus on decarbonization, circularity, and renewable materials. To learn more, please click here.
About Siemens Smart Infrastructure
Siemens Smart Infrastructure develops intelligent, adaptive infrastructure solutions that connect energy systems, buildings, and industries to address urbanization and climate challenges. Headquartered in Zug, Switzerland, the business unit employs approximately 78,500 people worldwide and is part of Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich), a global technology company focused on industry, infrastructure, mobility, and healthcare. Siemens aims to accelerate digital and sustainability transformation across industries while fostering secure, resilient, and energy-efficient operations. For more information, please click here.
Source/Photo Credit: Siemens / Envalior
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