Epidor Seals and Rubber Technology offers the possibility of manufacture TPE seals and profiles (thermoplastics) in a customized manner, i.e. tailored to the needs of the application.
The main function of gasket profiles is to create a watertight environment, which is achieved by the compression between surfaces exerted by these seals.
In this article, we will explain in detail the capabilities and characteristics of manufacturing profiles, more specifically TPE profiles.
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What are TPE profiles?
TPE stands for “thermoplastic elastomers”, which translates as “thermoplastic rubbers”. This product family consists of different formulas that are elastic and that, as the temperature increases, they become fluid and, therefore, increase their ability to be molded. In this way, they can adapt properly to their housing or working groove and avoid leakage.
This mixture of rubber and plastic results in a material with both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties.
The elastomeric characteristics of the materials include the flexibility, elasticity and the resistance to climatic conditions. In addition to these properties, TPE has characteristics similar to those of thermoplastic material, such as heat resistance.
There are different types of TPE:
- - TPE-S: Styrenic block copolymer thermoplastic elastomers. Made of SBS (Styrene Butadiene Styrene) or SEBS (Styrene Ethylene Butylene Styrene).
- - TPE-OTPE-O or TPO materials, also known as thermoplastic olefins, which blend polypropylene or polyethylene with an elastomer.
- - TPE-VTPE-V or TPV (Thermoplastics Vulcanized), like TPO, are made of a combination of polypropylene and EPDM. However, EPDM is vulcanized during compounding.
- - TPE-UThey are formed by the reaction of diisocyanates with a polyester or a polyether.
- - TPE-ETPE-E are block copolymers usually consisting of hard segments of polybutylene terephthalate, together with soft segments of various polyesters.
- - TPE-ATPE-A are composed of soft segments made of polyether or polyesters, as well as hard fragments made of polyamide.
As you can see, there are many variants of thermoplastic rubbers with different composition characteristics.
What features do TPE profiles offer?
The TPE profiles marketed and distributed by Epidor Seals and Rubber Technology have several features that have been included in our corporate processes to facilitate the requirements demanded by our customers.
We are capable of supplying the customized profile required by our customers from 25 meters, made of a single material.
The profile can be coextruded to offer seals in multiple hardnesses and colors. This process allows profiles to be available in more than one color, different hardnesses or compact/foam combinations for a single color. increased resistance to abrasion and deformation.
In addition, rubber-like thermoplastic sealing profiles in SEBS, PP-EPDM or PVC can be extruded in a range of hardnesses from 30 sh A to 90 sh A and from 30 sh D to 45 sh D.
Wide variety of colors
Regarding the colors, the profiles can be colored according to a list of more than 60 standard or customized shades from RAL patterns, Pantone, etc... Also, these colors can be translucent, with metallic effect, matte, or phosphorescent.
More sustainable and without curvatures and deformations
Another characteristic of the material is that, since it does not require subsequent curing, it can be cured without the need for avoids possible deformation and resulting curvature. This is because the profile cools immediately after extrusion.
TPE profiles are fully recyclable and are an ideal solution to replace those that are not, such as EPDM, Neoprene, SBR, Hypalon and silicone rubber profiles.
Suitable for different sectors
Our TPE profiles are suitable for a multitude of different industries, such as rail, marine, automotive, construction, industrial, food and pharmaceutical.
Compliance with regulations and standards
The materials of our TPA profiles comply with an extensive list of standards and certifications such as, for example, the REACH RoHS. Also CE or FDA food contact regulations.
Fire and smoke standards EN 13501 (construction) and EN 45545 (transport). UL94Vo (electrical equipment) and EU Directives 2011/65/EC (RoHS2) and 2000/53 EC (end of life vehicles).
We hope this article has been of interest to you.
If you still have questions regarding our TPE profiles or any related topic, contact our technical department.
We will be happy to assist you!