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TPE and TPU — injection-moldable rubber alternatives.

Thermoplastic elastomers behave like rubber but process like plastic — melt, inject, cool, done. No vulcanization, no curing, no long cycles. Standard for soft-grip handles, overmolded features, flexible seals, and anywhere you need rubber feel without rubber manufacturing complexity.

QUICK SPECS
Hardness rangeShore 30A (very soft) to 80D (semi-rigid)
Tensile (typical 60A)5–8 MPa
Elongation at break300–800%
Continuous service-40 to 100 °C (TPE-S); -40 to 135 °C (TPU)
Compression set25–40% (lower than many rubbers)
Overmolding compatibilityBonds to ABS, PC, PP, nylon
STATUSIN OPERATION
§ 01 / TPE

TPE families — not all TPEs are equal

FamilyBest forNotes
TPE-S (SEBS)Overmolding on ABS/PC, soft-grip handlesStandard "rubber-feel" TPE; bonds to PP, PC, ABS
TPE-V (EPDM / PP blend)Automotive weather seals, outdoor applicationsExcellent UV and heat resistance
TPE-O (olefin)Automotive interior, low-cost applicationsCheapest TPE, limited temperature range
TPU (polyurethane)Abrasion-resistant, tough, dynamic partsHigher tensile, better abrasion than TPE-S; more expensive
Medical TPETubing, seals, medical device gripsUSP Class VI, ISO 10993 grades
§ 02 / SHORE

Shore hardness guide

Hardness determines "feel":

  • Shore 30A: Very soft, like a gummy bear. Rarely used.
  • Shore 40A–50A: Soft-grip handle feel. Typical for consumer products.
  • Shore 60A–70A: Firm rubber, like a tire tread. Standard industrial range.
  • Shore 80A–90A: Stiff — almost plastic-like. Gaskets, bushings.
  • Shore 40D+: Semi-rigid, structural. Crosses into plastic territory.

Specify hardness with ±5 Shore units tolerance — TPE manufacturing doesn't hit exact hardness every time.

READY WHEN YOU ARE

Soft-touch, overmolded, or flexible parts.

Upload STEP with Shore hardness target. We recommend TPE-S vs TPU based on substrate and service conditions.

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