The LyondellBasell plant in Fairport Harbor Village is marking its 50th year of producing wire and cable insulating resin that keeps cars and appliances working properly. LyondellBasell also secured the original patent for these products in 1975. Up until the early 1970s, polyvinyl chloride — known as PVC — was the primary insulation material for wire and cable. However, PVC also is a thermoplastic and can melt if it comes into contact with a hot surface, LyondellBasell stated in a news release. LyondellBasell created an alternative to PVC as an insulating material in 1974. That’s when the company developed its cross-linked polyethylene that could withstand higher temperatures — especially in automobile engine compartments that were becoming more compact and hotter. “Having the appropriate wire insulation became vital because it protected the wire from moisture and overheating,” the company stated in its news release. Modern cars are filled with electronics and contain many more wires than in the past — up to two miles of wire per vehicle. Appliances also use the wire and cable resin produced at Fairport Harbor plant, primarily in applications that involve generating heat, such as lighting, construction and farming equipment. “LyondellBasell is the pioneer of cross-linked polyethylene in automotive and cable uses,” said Tom Schwab, the company’s commercial manager for polymers. “The teamwork by the Technical, Manufacturing and Commercial groups allows LyondellBasell to continue to innovate, produce and sell industry-leading, high-quality products in these markets.” The chemical company has manufacturing plants throughout the world, and its plant in Fairport Harbor is located at 110 Third St. and employs 45 people. “Since I began working at Fairport Harbor in 1990, I’ve seen automobile technology change steadily,” said Bill Mills, LyondellBasell senior process specialist. “I have a true sense of pride knowing the materials in today’s cars are likely produced by my team right here at the site.”