Garden tools turn over a new leaf with TPEs

Vertical gardening is compensating for the shrinking green spaces in urban areas. Not only does it create a natural, low maintenance and space-saving sanctuary, it also brings benefits to the well-being of urban dwellers and at the same time helps in reducing the carbon footprint of buildings and structures.

With dedication and the right gardening tools and equipment, including hand tools and power tools, gardening and horticulture activities in pocket spaces are made easy, yet rewarding.

As in a full garden, working in pocket spaces requires a lot of spade work, too. Thus, garden tools must be comfortable, durable and safe to use. The properties of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) deliver these desired ergonomic features and functionalities.

KRAIBURG TPE, a global thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) manufacturer of a wide range of TPE products and custom solutions for multiple industries, offers high quality and custom-engineered compounds with soft touch, hard grip and ergonomic characteristics required for garden equipment.

Ergonomic and soft-touch features for ease of use

Among KRAIBURG TPE’s range of products, the THERMOLAST® K TPE series possesses various properties, including soft-touch, smooth texture, durability, color versatility and more.

Furthermore, the TPE series exhibits abrasion, chemicals and UV resistance, making it suitable for outdoor applications.

The THERMOLAST® K TPE series has excellent processability. Compounds in this series can be processed through injection molding and extrusion, making them easy to manufacture a variety of products.

KRAIBURG TPE’s compound colorability makes garden applications like tool handles, seals and body covers more colorful and pleasing to the eye.

Versatility for use in various parts

Meanwhile, KRAIBURG TPE’s UV/AD2 series has good adhesion with PC, ABS, PC/ABS, ASA and SAN, allowing for product versatility.

The compound series also feature good surface mapping, making them ideal for applications like handles for hoes, shovels, garden clippers and many other gardening tools.

For gardening equipment covers or bodies, KRAIBURG TPE’s UV/FG series is suitable thanks to its weathering resistance.

It has good adhesion with polymers like PP, extending its use to garden equipment such as a hose trolley, watering hose tab, scattering bar, sprinkler and other equipment.