TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) provides vast benefits across a broad range of applications, setting it apart from other types of materials. Besides, TPU bridges the gap between rubber materials and rigid plastics, overcoming certain limitations and bringing together more advantages. Here are some advantages of TPU:
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Biocompatibility: TPU can be formulated to be biocompatible as a specific grade such as medical-grade. Medical device/component manufacturers place the utmost importance on the biocompatibility of TPU, and thus medical-grade TPU is extensively used in applications such as central venous catheters, cancer treatment devices, and guidewire coatings.
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Comprehensive Range of Hardness: TPU ranges from several shore hardness, making it well-suited for diverse applications that require TPUs with different hardness grades. For example, soft-touch grips, protective cases, medical devices, and automotive components.
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High Degree of Flexibility and Elasticity: TPU is characterized by its outstanding elasticity and flexibility, from rigid & stiff to soft and flexible, making it an ideal choice for various applications. The material is stretchable and bendable without altering its shape or compromising its performance. This feature enables the production of sportswear, footwear, and seals in which resilience and flexibility are essential requirements.
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Versatile Processing Techniques: With its remarkable capabilities and properties, TPU can be processed through various techniques such as injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and 3D printing. This versatility allows for more efficient manufacturing and customization of products across a spectrum of industries.
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Chemical Resistance: TPU exhibits good resistance to solvents, chemicals, oils, and greases. This chemical property allows it to maintain its stability and performance even with the presence of other substances. This characteristic makes it suitable for manufacturing tubing, gaskets, and seals in chemical or fluid handling systems.
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Durability and Wear Resistance: TPU shows excellent durability with a high degree of wear resistance. It is capable of enduring abrasion, impact, and harsh environments. Therefore, TPU is widely adopted to manufacture products that require resilience in demanding usage or outdoor applications.
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Excellent Adhesion: TPU has excellent adhesion properties to a wide range of materials, including leathers, metals, woods, plastics, and fabrics depending on the specific design of TPU. Hence, TPU are favored in applications that need multi-material coatings or assemblies such as adhesive films, laminates, or protection films.
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Environmental Considerations: TPU is a thermoplastic material that reduces environmental impact as it is recyclable and more sustainable. With its durability and wear resistance, the longer lifespan of products made with TPU further promotes a lower carbon footprint as compared to some other types of plastics.
TPU is a highly preferred and ideally suited choice in the manufacture of medical devices and healthcare products. Its excellent mechanical properties, hydrolytic resistance, and biocompatibility make it compliant with the stringent standards set for medical device manufacturing. ICP DAS – BMP places great importance on quality assurance and performs rigorous testing and thorough quality inspections for each batch of TPU produced. Besides, we constantly upgrade production lines through IIoT solutions to optimize manufacturing processes and increase productivity. The resultant shorter lead times further boost ICP DAS – BMP competitive edge.