TPE Elastomer Processing Requirements
Time of issue:2024-12-28
Translated Text:
TPE elastomer is a unique type of synthetic thermoplastic elastomer with a wide range of applications. The quality of this elastomer is closely related to its production process. When all elements of the production process are controlled, the quality of the elastomer can be greatly ensured. This article introduces the processing requirements for TPE elastomers.
Processing Temperature
The processing temperature for TPE is approximately 200 degrees Celsius. TPE does not absorb moisture from the air during storage and generally does not require a drying process. However, if the appearance of the product is crucial, the raw material can be placed in a blow-heated hopper and dried at 50 degrees Celsius for 2 to 4 hours. Materials that require overmolding with TPE, such as ABS, AS, PS, PC, PP, and PA, should be preheated at 80 degrees Celsius for 2 to 4 hours.
Mold Temperature
For the SBS system, the mold temperature should be between 10 and 40 degrees Celsius. For the SEBS system, the mold temperature should be between 35 and 65 degrees Celsius. A higher mold temperature can promote the flow of rubber in the mold, allowing for mold filling even at low injection pressures and resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing product surface.
Injection Speed
A moderate injection speed is suitable for the SBS system. However, a higher injection speed is preferable for the SEBS system. If the mold has adequate ventilation, there is no need to worry about air entrapment even at high injection speeds.
Barrel Cleaning
The SBS system has good thermal stability and does not require cleaning after each raw material interruption. The SEBS system has even better thermal stability and will not degrade if left at processing temperatures for 2 hours. The SBS system can be cleaned with PS, while the SEBS system is best cleaned with PE or PP.
Coloring
Most TPE is transparent, translucent, or off-white and can be easily colored. Suitable colorants or color masters should be chosen for coloring. PS-based or EVA-based color masters are suitable for the SBS system, while PE-based or PP-based color masters are suitable for the SEBS system.