TPE or TPU?

TPE is the general term for thermoplastic elastomers, also known as thermoplastic rubber. TPE is elastic with varying degrees of hardness and is frequently used in consumer products. There are numerous examples of such products where a certain level of elasticity is required. Compared to TPU, its abrasion resistance and strength are somewhat lower. TPE often replaces rubber in various applications—primarily EPDM, but also SBR and NR—because the material is more cost-effective and recyclable. It also requires less energy during injection molding and is often chosen over rubber for environmental reasons.

Variants of TPE include TPE-S and TPE-A.

TPU is a thermoplastic elastomer based on polyurethane, a thermoplastic variant of polyurethane rubber. This variant can be remelted and recycled; while this can be quite complex, it is possible. The most common TPU materials are based on polyester, polycaprolactone, and polyether. Polyester-based types, which are the most common, offer better mechanical properties, while polyether types provide superior hydrolysis resistance. Polycaprolactone offers the best oil resistance. TPU is chosen over TPE for products requiring higher abrasion and pressure resistance, as well as a longer service life. Consequently, TPU is more common for industrial components, whereas TPE is found in consumer products. TPE is generally simpler and more economical.

• Abrasion resistance is superior.
• Oil resistance is very good.
• Mechanical properties are very good.
• Excellent heat resistance.
• Excellent mechanical properties.