TPE Components for OEM and Heavy-Duty Equipment Manufacturers

Here’s a breakdown of the main types of thermoplastic elastomers:

  • 1. Styrenic Block Copolymers (SBCs or TPS)

    Examples: SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene), SEBS (styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene)
    Features:

    • Soft, rubber-like feel with good elasticity.
    • Processed easily via injection molding or extrusion.
    • SEBS variants have better heat and UV stability than SBS.
      Applications: Grips, footwear, soft-touch handles, medical tubing.

  • 2. Thermoplastic Polyolefins (TPOs)

    Composition: A blend of polypropylene (PP) and un-crosslinked ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR or EPDM).
    Features:

    • Excellent weather and chemical resistance.
    • Low density and good impact resistance.
    • Limited elastic recovery compared to other TPEs.
      Applications: Automotive bumpers, dashboards, exterior trims.

  • 3. Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPVs)

    Examples: Santoprene® (PP/EPDM-based TPV).
    Features:

    • Made from dynamically vulcanized rubber particles in a thermoplastic matrix.
    • Superior elastic recovery, oil resistance, and high-temperature stability.
    • Can replace traditional vulcanized rubber in many uses.
      Applications: Seals, gaskets, automotive weatherstrips.

  • 4. Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPUs)

    Composition: Block copolymers of urethane segments with hard and soft phases.
    Features:

    • Excellent abrasion, oil, and solvent resistance.
    • Wide hardness range (from flexible to rigid).
    • Good transparency and toughness.
      Applications: Hoses, wheels, phone cases, medical devices.

  • 5. Thermoplastic Copolyester Elastomers (COPE or TPC)

    • High mechanical strength and chemical resistance.
    • Maintains flexibility across a wide temperature range.
    • Better fatigue and creep resistance than many other TPEs.
      Applications: Cable jackets, automotive boots, industrial belts.

  • 6. Thermoplastic Polyamide Elastomers (PEBA)

    Composition: Block copolymers of polyamide (hard segment) and polyether (soft segment).
    Features:

    • Very low density, high elasticity, and excellent low-temperature flexibility.
    • Excellent resilience and chemical resistance.
      Applications: Sporting goods (shoe soles, ski boots), medical tubing.

  • 7. Miscellaneous / Custom Blends


    These include elastomeric PVC, specialized blends such as TPE-silicone hybrids, TPE-fluoropolymer blends, or bio-based TPEs designed for sustainability or specific performance targets.

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