Santoprene™ TPV Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV)
Santoprene™ thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) are high-performance elastomers that combine the best attributes of vulcanized rubber – such as flexibility and low compression set – with the processing ease of thermoplastics.
In consumer and industrial product applications, the combination of Santoprene TPV properties and ease of processing delivers improved performance, consistent quality and lower production costs. In automotive applications, the lighter weight of Santoprene TPVs contributes to improved efficiency, fuel economy and reduced costs. They also offer numerous benefits in appliance , electrical , construction , healthcare and packaging applications.
On standard thermoplastics equipment , Santoprene TPVs can be injection molded, extruded, blow molded or thermoformed, and clean scrap from these operations can be reused. Santoprene TPV is recyclable in the polyolefin recycle stream.
SantopreneTPV advantages
Harsh-environment performance. Parts made from Santoprene TPVs offer a constant service temperature range from -60°C to 135°C (-81°F to 275°F) with no cracking or tackiness. Excellent heat aging combines with good resistance to many acids, bases and aqueous solutions.
Portfolio of bonding grades. Select from more than 20 grades that bond with ETPs, nylons, metals and various polyolefins. Overmolds as thin as 0.5 mm eliminate adhesives, bonding agents and mechanical interlocks. Save costs through parts consolidation and design flexibility.
Soft-touch aesthetics. The dry silky feel of grips, knobs and handles made with Santoprene TPVs adds customer appeal and cost-effective market value to consumer and industrial products.
Broad range of flexibility. Santoprene TPVs range from supple 35 Shore A to tough 50 Shore D. General purpose grades are suitable for most applications. FDA-compliant, NSF-listed and medical grades are also available. Flame-retardant grades meet UL requirements.
Easier design for complex parts. Design tolerances can be two to three times more precise than with EPDM or polychloroprene rubber. This enables product designers to create parts with thick or thin walls and to simplify multipart designs.