More often than not, the process of parts material selection and/or development can get fairly involved. To sum it all up it a nutshell, it’s similar to a game of pros vs cons where so many different variables come into play. In the case of TPE, the principle is no different. Factors such as meeting the performance requirements for a specific application, economic assessments, and processing issues, should all be reviewed in order to make the optimal choice. Looking at the qualities and considerations of this material can get this quest for the best off to a great start.
What is TPE?
Thermoplastic Elastomers, or TPEs, are flexible materials that exhibit the properties of rubber, but are processed like plastics. Suddenly when they first became available commercially in the 90’s, it was a whole new ballgame for the realm of engineering. TPE’s growth rate escalated as these high-performance materials continued to be used in a plethora of applications. However, just like with other materials, TPE’s scorecard comes with its share of benefits, as well as a few setbacks penciled in.
The Good, the Bad, & the Comparison
Because TPE is processed like plastics, the process is simplified and tends to produce increasing advantages. Due to the need for fewer steps, such as little to no mixing/blending required, TPE can be lead to lower costs and therefore, increased economic advantages. Not to mention, when compared to traditional thermoset rubber, TPE typically also offers:
- Shorter fabrication /cycle time
- No finishing or post cure required
- Lower rate of energy consumption
- Recyclable parts, can be used as “filler” in many applications
- Lower density that can lead to lower part costs
Although these features can make TPE very beneficial, there are some drawbacks to explore. One being, that the tooling to produce these materials can be expensive, especially if the geometrical design of the part is complex. Also, even though TPE materials over the years, they still haven’t caught up to rubber in terms of their physical properties. When comparing the two, rubber has superior tensile strength, compression set, and elongation capability.
Real Support for Real Solutions
Undoubtedly, there’s plenty of things to consider when selecting a material. But it doesn’t stop there. Even when that’s been covered, other factors exist that can possibly influence processing and impact costs. At Real Seal, we offer engineering and design support to assist customers in their quest for the best and a real solution to their elastomeric product needs. Please contact us if you are interested in support for your engineering application, or call us at 800-542-6162 today.
