#Japan #Tokyo #sealing solutions #NOK Corporation #Battery Japan

NOK to Present Innovative Energy Solutions at BATTERY JAPAN 2026

NOK Corporation, headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, is set to participate in the upcoming BATTERY JAPAN 2026 International Secondary Battery Exhibition, which is scheduled from March 17 to 19, 2026, at Tokyo Big Sight. This event is poised to showcase NOK's pivotal contributions to the evolution of next-generation energy solutions.

The theme of NOK's exhibition is "NOK Sealing Solutions Supporting Next-Generation Energy". The company plans to unveil three groundbreaking products specifically designed for the ever-evolving electric vehicle (EV) and hydrogen sectors. These include low dew point grease engineered for battery manufacturing processes, hydrogen O-rings, and water electrolysis gaskets, all making their first appearance during this exhibition.

Low Dew Point Grease: A Breakthrough in Battery Manufacturing

One of the most exciting new products is NOK's low dew point grease, which has been developed for the stringent dry conditions encountered in lithium-ion and solid-state battery manufacturing, operating at dew points between -50°C and -70°C. This grease is designed to tackle the significant issue of increased friction in moving parts such as bearings and ball screws in such ultra-dry environments. By minimizing wear on equipment components, the grease extends operational lifespan while enhancing productivity through more stable machine operations. Notably, it avoids the inclusion of specific metallic elements (Cu, Zn, Fe) in its formulation, thereby reducing the risk of negative impacts on battery performance.

Advanced Hydrogen O-Rings for High-Pressure Environments

Another innovative solution is the hydrogen O-ring designed for utilization in hydrogen environments, where high-pressure conditions can lead to hydrogen permeating the rubber and causing blisters upon pressure release. NOK’s O-ring stands out with its excellent blister resistance and low-temperature properties, utilizing a combination of low-temperature EPDM material and specialized VMQ material. A dedicated backup ring enhances its effectiveness in high-pressure applications. These materials provide superior performance at varying low temperatures, including -50°C for low-temp EPDM and -60°C for specialized VMQ, making them ideal for demanding applications.

Essential Water Electrolysis Gaskets

NOK also introduces a crucial water electrolysis gasket, integral for maintaining airtightness, insulation, and electrolyte retention in electrolysis devices. This gasket is designed to mitigate risks related to gas mixing and leaks, enhancing the efficiency of hydrogen production and the overall reliability of the device. Transforming traditional designs, it features a resin frame that facilitates easy membrane replacement while streamlining automatic assembly and reducing component count. Collaborative research with the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) aims to optimize its materials and shapes further to improve energy conversion efficiency in electrolysis applications.

Innovative Sealing Solutions for Cooling Systems

Furthermore, NOK will showcase specialized sealing solutions for cooling systems, including seals for multi-channel switching valves and pipe joints. The design combines rubber with low-friction materials to achieve high sealing capability with low torque, facilitating smooth switching in flow paths. Additionally, the joint seal adapts to misalignment and guarantees effective sealing, thereby enhancing efficiency in the assembly of complex cooling pipe units.

Tracking Resistant Rubber and Corrosion Protection Technology

To bolster its portfolio, NOK has developed a unique rubber material with superior resistance to tracking phenomena in high-voltage environments, meeting the JIS standard’s top value for Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) at 600. This innovation not only enhances waterproof and oil-resistant properties but also supports compact designs in inverters and motors by reducing component counts.

Lastly, NOK will introduce the "RUSTECTOR" coating designed for aluminum corrosion protection in EV units. This coating improves corrosion resistance by filling surface roughness, providing an effective gasket solution for aluminum housings.

Event Details

• - Theme: "NOK Sealing Solutions Supporting Next-Generation Energy"
• - Booth Number: S8-1 (Tokyo Big Sight, South Exhibition Hall, 1st Floor)
• - Exhibition Dates: March 17-19, 2026
• - Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, Koto-ku, Ariake 3-11-1
• - Official Website: BATTERY JAPAN

NOK Corporation continually strives to contribute to essential manufacturing sectors across numerous industries, including automotive, electronics, healthcare, industrial robotics, and even aerospace. With a dedicated team of about 38,000 professionals across 15 countries globally, NOK emphasizes high-quality production and stable supplies, playing a vital role in the advancement of a safer and more comfortable society.