Know More About TPU Thermoplastic Polyurethane - Knowledge

Know More About TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

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TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is a high-performance elastomer material. The answers to questions about its material properties, appearance and color are as follows:

1. Material and appearance of TPU

TPU is a material between rubber and plastic, with excellent wear resistance, high elasticity, oil resistance, tear resistance, and good processing performance (injection molding, extrusion, etc.).

Appearance:

Usually translucent or opaque granules (raw materials), the finished products can be made into hoses, films, seals, etc. The surface is smooth and soft or elastic to the touch, depending on the hardness (Shore hardness range is about 60A-95A).

2. Color of TPU

The raw materials are mostly translucent or milky white, but can be formulated into any color (such as black, white, color, etc.) by adding masterbatch or pigment.

3. Coloring method for producing black flat hose

Black masterbatch is recommended:

Masterbatch (pre-dispersed pigment carrier) is the first choice for TPU coloring because of its uniform dispersion, simple process and no dust pollution.

Pigment selection:

Carbon black: the most commonly used, low cost, strong hiding power, but attention should be paid to dispersion (it is recommended to choose special carbon black with surface treatment).

About TPU Options

For injection molding, we offer two TPU formulations: Texin 245D and Texin 983A. 3D printing offers TPU with a hardness of 70-A.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Translucent Tpu Hose. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Texin 245D (injection molding) resin is an aromatic polyester-based thermoplastic polyurethane with a Shore hardness of approximately 43D. It is both impact- and chemical-resistant. The natural color version complies with FDA food-contact regulations.

Texin 983A (injection molding) is a flexible resin that offers outstanding abrasion-, impact-, moisture-, and chemical-resistance. It complies with FDA food-contact regulations. It’s Shore hardness value is 83.

TPU 70-A (3D printing) is a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) that combines rubber-like elasticity and elongation with good abrasion-, wear-, and impact-resistance. You can leverage it to produce both prototypes and functional parts. The “70-A” refers to its Shore hardness. 

Advantages of TPU 

Abrasion resistance: Due to its elasticity, TPU parts have the ability to deform under stress and return to their original shape, rather than abrade.

Biocompatibility: TPU can be used for medical supplies such as catheters, medical tubing, wearables, and wound dressings. Note that not all formulas of TPU are biocompatible. 

Chemical resistance: The molecular structure of TPUs includes pseudo- crosslinked polymer chains, which enhance chemical resistance. This resistance extends to acids, alkalis, and other harsh chemicals.

Elasticity: As a block copolymer, TPU alternates hard and soft segments. The hard segments help with rigidity, strength, and durability, while the soft segments are made up of long, flexible chains that can easily uncoil and stretch when a force is applied. This structure also allows for TPU to return to its original shape when the force is removed. 

Food grade: Texin 245D in its natural color and Texin 983A are both considered food grade resins. 

Soft touch: All three of the variants of TPU that we offer feel soft when touched, due to those previously mentioned "soft segments". 

Disadvantages of TPU 

Sometimes TPU might not be the best choice for your application. Here are the major reasons why: 

Finishing difficulty: The surface requires preparation such as cleaning and mild abrading to ensure good adhesion. Solvent-based finishing products might not bond well. In terms of longevity of the finish, flexibility might work against you if the finish is rigid. In worst-case scenarios, it might even cause cracks and peeling.

Lack of rigidity: Fundamentally the issue here is that it is difficult to achieve structural integrity with certain geometries using TPU. As with any part, design is crucial, including uniform wall thickness, use of fillets, and more. On the injection molding side, note that lack of rigidity can cause issues with ejection of your parts.

Printing accuracy/quality: While many choose TPU for its flexibility, that same characteristic can cause less precise printing compared to other materials, including warping and dimensional accuracy issues.

Prone to moisture absorption: The chemical structure is the prime culprit here. TPU’s polymer chains have spaces that allow for moisture to penetrate, and the urethane links tend to be hygroscopic, attracting water along the surface.

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