How are TPE processed during extrusion processes?

The Extrusion Process

가장 중요한 사실 요약

  • TPEs are ideal for processing using extrusion.
  • TPE are usually processed in standard extruders.
  • The wide range of compounds enables a multitude of possible combinations.

How are TPEs extruded?

During extrusion, the source material is filled as granules into the screws. The high temperatures within the heated cylinder make the material melt. The nozzle brings the molten material into the desired profile shape. After cooling and solidifying, it can be cut to the desired lengths.
Advantage of TPS: In contrast to other plastics, the shear rates enable additional heat to be applied here. This improves the flow characteristics and reduces energy costs, due to the lower cylinder temperatures possible as a result.

Does the machinery have to be modified or expanded when using TPEs?

Generally no. Extruders designed to produce thermoplastic materials are usually also suitable for processing KRAIBURG TPE materials. It is recommended to use standard three-zone screws with a minimum length of 25 D and a compression ratio of 3.5 to 1 and higher. A barrier screw is advantageous for shearing the material. We also recommend using perforated discs or screens.

What temperatures are recommended when processing TPEs using extruders?

Please always refer to the information provided in the respective data sheets when processing TPEs!
Overall, a temperature of 250 °C should be kept as the upper limit during processing. If the temperatures are higher than those specified in the respective data sheets and the residence times are too long, the material may be damaged.

Find the right TPE solution for your application


Making sure you get the best results: the right materials solutions have been developed for each of your specific applications.

 

See our products

Do machines have to be newly calibrated when using TPEs?

Calibration is generally not necessary. However, harder compounds may require additional devices for support.

Which extrusion tools are used in TPE processing?

For processing TPEs, simple die tools are usually sufficient. However, the die land should be kept as small as possible. Multi-plate tools that are equipped with corresponding flow corrections may be beneficial due to lower longitudinal shrinkage and less warpage of the profiles. This also enables higher production speeds. Important: Sharp tool edges should be avoided, especially when the material escapes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Can TPEs that have been processed using extrusion be recycled?

    1

    Some of the thermoplastic elastomers produced by KRAIBURG TPE are part of a closed recycling cycle and can be recycled after the product life has ended.

  • Can TPE profiles be returned to in-process recycling?

    1

    In many cases, it is possible to recycle scrap or edge trims within the production process. They are made suitable for dosing in slow-running shredders and added to the original process in proportions of 2 to 15 percent. Users are thus able to reduce costs and make a major contribution to sustainability through in-process recycling!

Share this post

Related Posts

Featured Knowledge Article

The Co-extrusion Process

Unlocking Innovation: The Power of the Co-extrusion Process
Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are an indispensable tool used by processors, product developers and designers alike. They combine the dynamic processing properties of thermoplastic plastics with the softness and flexibility of elastomers.
Featured Knowledge Article

The Injection Molding Process

Discover how our injection molding delivers high-quality, custom plastic parts quickly and accurately.
Discover how advanced injection molding techniques enable high-quality, customized plastic parts with speed and accuracy.
Featured Knowledge Article

TPU 소재란?

열가소성 폴리우레탄 | Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
열가소성 엘라스토머 내에서 열가소성 폴리우레탄(TPU)은 하위 범주를 형성합니다. 일반적으로 이러한 재료는 폴리 에테르 또는 폴리 에스테르와 고전적인 폴리 우레탄의 블록 공중 합체입니다. 
Featured Knowledge Article

TPO 소재란?

열가소성 폴리올레핀 | Thermoplastic polyolefins
열가소성 폴리올레핀(TPO)은 올레핀계 열가소성 수지(예: PP)와 비가교 탄성 중합체(예: EPDM)의 혼합물 또는 연질과 경질 세그먼트가 있는 올레핀 공중합체입니다. 이러한 소재는 열가소성 엘라스토머의 하위 그룹을 형성합니다.
Featured Knowledge Article

TPC 소재란?

열가소성 폴리에스테르 엘라스토머 | Thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPC)
열가소성 폴리에스터 엘라스토머(TPC)는 폴리에스터와 폴리에테르의 블록 공중합체입니다. TPC는 열가소성 엘라스토머의 하위 그룹을 형성합니다.
Featured Knowledge Article

TPA 소재란?

열가소성 폴리아미드 엘라스토머 | Thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPA)
열가소성 폴리아미드 엘라스토머(TPA)는 폴리아미드 및 에테르 화합물 또는 폴리아미드 및 에스테르 화합물을 기반으로 하는 블록 공중합체입니다. 중합체 사슬에서, 폴리아미드(예를 들어 PA6)는 경질상을 나타내고 에테르 또는 에스테르 화합물은 탄성 특성을 위한 연질상을 나타낸다. TPA는 열가소성 엘라스토머의 하위 그룹을 형성합니다.
Featured Knowledge Article

TPS 소재란?

열가소성 스티렌 블록 공중합체 | Thermoplastic styrene block copolymers (TPS)
열가소성 스티렌 블록 공중합체(TPS)는 열가소성 엘라스토머(TPE)의 하위 그룹을 설명합니다. 
Featured Knowledge Article

TPV 소재란?

열가소성 가황물 | Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV)
TPV는 열가소성 가황물의 약자입니다. TPV는 주로 폴리프로필렌과 EPDM을 기반으로 하는 탄성 및 열가소성 가공 가능한 재료입니다. 그들은 열가소성 엘라스토머(TPE)의 일반 그룹 내에서 하위 범주를 형성합니다.