TPU - Thermoplastic Polyurethane
A block copolymer consisting of alternating hard and soft segments. The high-performance heavyweight of the elastomeric world.
General-Purpose Flexibility
TPU is specified when your product needs to withstand punishing physical environments. It offers a unique combination of rubber-like elasticity and the extreme durability of an engineering plastic, characterized by incredible abrasion resistance, tear strength, and impact toughness.
- Extreme Abrasion & Tear Resistance: TPU is arguably the best elastomer for applications involving sliding friction, scraping, or high-contact wear. It is the gold standard for parts that must endure heavy mechanical abuse.
- Oil, Grease, & Solvent Resistance: Unlike many rubbers, TPU is remarkably resistant to non-polar solvents, oils, and greases. This makes it essential for automotive and industrial machinery applications.
- Broad Hardness Range: Like TPE, TPU hardness is measured on the Shore A or Shore D scale. We can process grades ranging from very soft (Shore A 60) to semi-rigid (Shore D 70), allowing for both flexible seals and hard, impact-resistant bumpers.
- Excellent Low-Temperature Flexibility: TPU maintains its elasticity and impact resistance in freezing environments where other plastics become brittle and prone to shattering.
We specialize in processing TPU to ensure its full mechanical potential is realized. We treat TPU as a precision-engineered material that demands strict moisture control and advanced tooling strategies to prevent the “sticky” processing issues common in less experienced shops.
- Automotive: CVJ boots, drive belts, gear knobs, and stone guards that must resist road debris and grease.
- Industrial: Heavy-duty casters, gaskets for high-vibration machinery, conveyor belt components, and protective sleeves.
- Consumer Goods: High-impact smartphone cases, high-end footwear components, and protective athletic gear.
- Medical: Durable, kink-resistant tubing, seals for diagnostic devices, and components that require a combination of strength and flexibility.