Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE)
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) are a unique class of materials that combine the functional properties of elastomers (rubber-like flexibility) with the processing advantages of thermoplastics. TPEs can be melted, shaped, and reformed, making them versatile materials for a wide range of applications. They offer excellent flexibility, resilience, and resistance to many environmental factors, such as UV, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. TPEs are commonly used in automotive, medical, industrial, and consumer product applications where flexibility, durability, and ease of processing are crucial.
Newko Polymers offers a range of TPE materials, including TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanizates), TPE-S (Styrenic Block Copolymers), and TPC-ET (Thermoplastic Copolyester Elastomers), each suited to specific performance needs.
Types of TPEs
TPV (Thermoplastic Vulcanizates):
TPV is a blend of elastomers and thermoplastics, typically combining rubber with polypropylene. It offers excellent heat resistance and elasticity, maintaining a rubber-like feel with the ease of thermoplastic processing.
Key Properties:
- High elasticity and resilience similar to vulcanized rubber.
- Superior heat and chemical resistance.
- Excellent weatherability, making it ideal for outdoor applications.
- High abrasion and fatigue resistance.
Applications:
- Automotive: Used in weather seals, hoses, and gaskets where flexibility and durability are crucial under extreme conditions.
- Appliances: Often used in appliance seals, grips, and flexible components.
- Construction: Suitable for roofing membranes, seals, and profiles where weather and UV resistance are needed.
TPE-S (Styrenic Block Copolymers):
Also known as SBCs, TPE-S materials are one of the most commonly used types of TPE. These are often used in applications where softness, elasticity, and good processability are essential.
Key Properties:
- Good flexibility and softness.
- Excellent processability and recyclability.
- Low cost compared to other types of TPEs.
- Resistant to UV and moderate chemical exposure.
Applications:
- Consumer Goods: Ideal for making soft-touch grips, handles, and toys.
- Medical: Used in tubing, seals, and medical device housings where softness and biocompatibility are critical.
- Packaging: Used in closures, gaskets, and flexible film applications.
TPC-ET (Thermoplastic Copolyester Elastomers):
TPC-ET combines the elasticity of elastomers with the strength and resistance of engineering plastics. This type of TPE offers high performance in terms of heat, chemical, and fatigue resistance.
Key Properties:
- Superior mechanical strength and flexibility.
- Excellent chemical, oil, and grease resistance.
- High-performance stability under continuous load and flex cycles.
- Retains flexibility at low temperatures and high durability in dynamic applications.
Applications:
- Automotive: Often used in airbag covers, wire and cable jackets, and bellows where high-performance flexibility and strength are needed.
- Industrial: Found in power tool grips, conveyor belts, and other mechanical parts exposed to harsh environments.
- Sporting Goods: Commonly used in footwear and sporting equipment where durability and flexibility are essential.
Compound Options
At Newko Polymers, we offer a variety of TPE compounds to meet specific performance requirements across industries:
- Natural/Custom Colors: Available in standard and custom colors to meet design and branding needs.
- UV Stabilized: For outdoor applications that require long-lasting performance under sunlight exposure.
- Flame Retardant: Suitable for applications requiring high fire safety standards.
- Oil Resistant: Ideal for automotive and industrial applications where exposure to oils, greases, or fuels is common.
- Soft Touch: Enhanced compounds that offer a softer feel for grips, handles, and consumer goods.
Grades
- TPE 70A
- TPE 90A