Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)

Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) bridge the gap between flexible rubbers and easily processable plastics, offering excellent elasticity, non-slip grip, sealing capability, and a soft-touch aesthetic. At Jucheng Precision, an ISO 9001, ISO 13485, and IATF 16949 certified manufacturer, we specialize in high-precision TPE injection molding, 2K molding, and multi-shot overmolding onto rigid substrates (like PP, ABS, PC, and Nylon). Utilizing 35+ advanced molding presses (50-650T) and 25+ in-house 5-axis CNC machines, we ensure robust thermal bonding without peeling. We provide a free DFM analysis within 24 hours to optimize parting lines and compatibility, verified by Zeiss CMM inspection.

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Our available materials

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TPE-Avient GLS Versaflex OM 1040X

Achieving an unbreakable chemical bond over rigid polar engineering plastics like PC, ABS, and PC/ABS alloys without secondary adhesives requires specialized interface chemistry, which Avient’s Versaflex OM 1040X-1 delivers through its medical-compliant, elastomer-modified TPS matrix. Boasting a density of 0.920 g/cm³ and an ultra-soft hardness of 42 Shore A, this translucent overmolding grade complies with ISO 10993 and USP Class VI biocompatibility regulations. Jucheng Precision, under strict ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 certified medical contract manufacturing systems, specializes in multi-shot overmolding of Versaflex OM 1040X. Utilizing 5-axis CNC-machined tooling, we optimize gating and manage its high shrinkage (2.0%-2.6%) to secure peeling-free aesthetic interfaces verified by Zeiss CMM.

TPE-KRAIBURG Thermolast K TC5GPZ

Delivering a pleasant, premium soft-touch surface feel while satisfying strict low-emission and low-odor VDA 270 standards for automotive interiors requires a specialized elastomer, which KRAIBURG TPE’s THERMOLAST® K TC5GPZ delivers. Featuring a density of 1.10 g/cm³ and a hardness of 49 Shore A, this SEBS-based thermoplastic elastomer is engineered for exceptional melt cohesion and superior chemical adhesion to polypropylene (PP) substrates. Jucheng Precision, under IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 frameworks, specializes in multi-shot overmolding of TC5GPZ. Backed by our 5-axis CNC-machined tooling, we optimize parting lines and control high elastic shrinkage, preventing peeling or flash, verified by Zeiss CMM.

TPE-KRAIBURG Thermolast M TM6MED

Ensuring uncompromising biological safety and low extraction potentials in clinical fluid-contact pathways and drug-delivery devices requires a premium elastomer, which KRAIBURG TPE’s THERMOLAST® M TM6MED (Series: MC/tl) delivers. Boasting an ultra-pure translucent density of 0.880 g/cm³ and a hardness of 56 Shore A, this medical-grade thermoplastic elastomer is fully certified to USP Class VI and ISO 10993 biocompatibility protocols. Jucheng Precision, under ISO 13485 medical device certified frameworks, specializes in molding TM6MED. Using 5-axis CNC-machined S136 stainless steel molds, we control its high crystallization shrinkage (1.5%-2.5%) and eliminate parting-line micro-flashes, ensuring dynamic seals verified by Zeiss CMM.

Comprehensive TPE Grades We Mold

We process high-performance Thermoplastic Elastomer formulations from world-leading synthesizers, specialized for excellent bonding, soft-touch cosmetics, and sealing functions:

TPE Material Class	Typical Brand & Grade	Key Characteristics & Advantages
SBC-based (TPE-S) / Overmolding	• KRAIBURG Thermolast K TC5GPZ • Avient GLS Versaflex OM 1040X • Kraton G2705 / G7820 • Teknor Apex Monprene RG-10150	Outstanding adhesion and thermal bonding compatibility with rigid substrates (PP, ABS, PC, PC/ABS, PA). Provides soft-touch, anti-slip textures. Specified for tool grips, toothbrushes, and consumer electronics.
Medical & Healthcare	• KRAIBURG Thermolast K TC6LMN • Avient GLS OnFlex-S • Teknor Apex Sarlink ME-2255	USP Class VI, ISO 10993, and FDA food-contact compliant. Highly inert, latex-free, and PVC-free formulations. Ideal for medical syringe plungers, soft-touch diagnostic buttons, and dental tool grips.
High Flow / Thin-Wall	• KRAIBURG Thermolast K TC5GPN • Teknor Apex Monprene GP series	High melt flow index (MFI) designed for filling long, intricate flow channels and extremely thin-walled gaskets without short shots. Used for structural sealing profiles and consumer covers.

Applicable Molding Processes for TPE

TPE’s elastomeric nature and excellent melt fluidity allow for versatile double-shot and encapsulation configurations:

Molding Process	Process Suitability & Application
Overmolding (Multi-Shot)	Excellent. The primary process for TPE. Allows molding a soft-touch TPE layer directly over pre-molded rigid structures (such as PP, ABS, or PC) to form permanent anti-slip grips.
2-Shot (2K) Molding	Excellent. Simultaneously injects a rigid plastic and soft TPE in a single cycle using rotating platens. Drastically optimizes cycle times and guarantees perfect aesthetic interfaces.
Standard Injection Molding	Excellent. Ideal for standalone, highly flexible elastomeric parts like grommets, expansion boots, plugs, and dynamic seals.

Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Tooling & Injection Molding Guide

To prevent issues like poor substrate bonding, surface silver streaks, or flashing, our scientific molding process is strictly implemented:

Pre-Drying: TPE materials are mildly hygroscopic. Pre-drying raw resin at 60°C–80°C (140°F to 176°F) for 2–3 hours is necessary to prevent surface silver streaks, bubbles, and compromised bonding strength.
Melt Temperature: Strictly processed between 170°C and 210°C (338°F to 410°F). Overheating can degrade the elastomeric blocks and reduce melt viscosity, leading to severe flashing.
Mold Temperature: Kept low between 20°C and 50°C (68°F to 122°F). Rapid mold cooling is necessary to solidify the rubber phase quickly, ensuring optimal demolding and shorter cycle times.
Chemical Compatibility for Overmolding: Thermal bonding relies on interfacial molecular diffusion. Jucheng’s engineering division carefully selects customized TPE grades chemically formulated to match the surface energy of specific substrate plastics (e.g., PP, ABS, or Nylon) to prevent peeling.
High Shrinkage Control: TPE exhibits high shrinkage (typically 1.2% to 2.5% depending on hardness and grade). Our in-house tooling division uses 5-axis CNC machines to achieve precise scaling on tool cavities to secure strict tolerances.

Key Application Industries for Molded TPE Components

Consumer & Hand Tools: Soft-touch grips for screwdrivers, drill handles, electric toothbrushes, kitchenware handles, and cosmetic container caps.
Automotive Interiors & Seals (IATF 16949 Certified): Weatherstripping profiles, window guide seals, cup holder liners, interior anti-slip mats, and flexible steering rack boots.
Medical & Healthcare Devices (ISO 13485 Compliant): Biocompatible syringe plunger tips, soft-touch buttons on monitoring equipment, medical ventilator seals, and dental tool handles.
Consumer Electronics & Telecom: Protective phone bumper surrounds, wire cable relief boots, sealing gaskets for outdoor electronic enclosures, and earbud grips.

Material Properties

Density	0.89 - 1.20 g/cm³
Hardness Range	20A - 90A Shore A
Tensile Strength at 100% Elongation	1.5 - 5.0 MPa
Tensile Strength at Break	3.5 - 15.0 MPa
Elongation at Break	300 - 800 %
Tear Strength	15 - 45 kN/m
Compression Set (23°C, 22h)	15 - 35 %
Melting Temperature	170 - 210 °C
Linear Mold Shrinkage	1.2 - 2.5 %
Dielectric Strength	18 - 25 kV/mm
Volume Resistivity	1.0E+14 Ohm·cm
Maximum Part Size	800 x 600 mm
Minimum Part Size	1 x 1 mm