Spiratex TPU

Posted by spiratex on November 9th, 2020

Thermoplastic polyurethane, also known as TPU, is one of the most sought-after plastics for numerous applications, including medical devices, sporting goods, automotive parts, power tools, conveyor parts, caster wheels, inflatable rafts and drive belts.

TPU is an elastic thermoplastic and a member of the thermoplastic rubber elastomer [TPE] family. TPEs are rubber-like materials that have the processing advantages of plastics and can be recycled.

The typical TPU profile is a plastic known for its overall toughness and flexibility at low temperatures, its high tensile strength, its cut resistance qualities, its high wear and abrasion resistance and sound dampening.

The introduction custom fabricated TPU extrusion tubing in the early 70s created immediate competition for PVCs, which had dominated the marketplace. The reason? TPUs outperformed PVC in most demanding applications requiring strength yet flexibility.

What makes TPU so popular, versatile and effective? It’s composed of soft and hard materials that increases its flexibility and broadens its applications.

All TPUs can be divided into two categories: esters and ethers. Ester-based TPUs are tougher but break down when exposed to water for long periods of time. Ester-based TPUs are commonly found in industrial applications such as belting or roller covers since they’re more resistant to chemicals and oils. Ether-based TPUs do not degrade in water but are not as tough.

TPU also has a smoother finish than most TPEs, and has better resistance to abrasion and shrinks less.

Another feature of TPUs is their degree of hardness. Top-notch TPU plastic extrusion manufacturer typically measured the hardness using a durometer. The most common TPUs fall into the A-scale, ranging from 55A to 98A. 98A durometer is roughly equivalent to 55 on the D-scale. Once the durometer reaches the D-scale, it becomes very stiff. Most applications of custom TPU extrusions require material in the 80A to 90A durometer range.

When you are searching for plastic extrusion companies with an expertise in custom TPU extrusions you want to make sure they deal with all the top TPU suppliers, such as BASF, Lubrizol (formerly Goodrich), Dow and Bayer. You’ll also want to know their experience in testing new TPU designs that demonstrate their engineering and design expertise. When you find the right company the chances of them being able to custom design a TPU extrusion that meets your expectations will be excellent.