How to Improve Adhesion of TPE to Metal in Overmolding

Having spent over a decade in the plastics industry, particularly working with thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), I’ve tackled countless challenges in overmolding applications. One of the trickiest issues I’ve encountered is ensuring strong adhesion between TPE and metal substrates. Poor adhesion can lead to delamination, reduced part durability, or even complete failure in applications like tool […]

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How to Address Weld Lines in Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) Production

As someone who’s spent years working in the plastics industry, particularly with thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), I’ve seen my fair share of production challenges. One issue that pops up time and again is weld lines—those pesky imperfections that can compromise the strength, appearance, and performance of TPE parts. If you’re reading this, you’re likely dealing with

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Does TPE Material Contain Phthalates?

Having spent over 15 years in the plastics and elastomer industry, I’ve handled countless materials, from rigid thermoplastics to soft, flexible thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). One question that pops up frequently, especially from manufacturers, designers, and even consumers, is whether TPE contains phthalates—those controversial chemicals often linked to health and environmental concerns. It’s a valid concern,

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Does TPE Material Require High-Temperature Baking Before Injection Molding?

As someone who’s been in the plastics manufacturing industry for over a decade, I’ve worked with countless materials, including thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), and I know the ins and outs of preparing it for injection molding. One question that often comes up, especially from those new to the field, is whether TPE needs high-temperature baking before

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Is TPE a Component of Silicone?

Having spent over a decade in the materials industry, working on everything from consumer electronics to medical devices, I’ve come across countless questions about Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) and silicone. One that keeps popping up, especially among those diving into material selection or curious about their everyday products, is whether TPE is a component of silicone.

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How to Tell if TPE is Made by Injection Molding?

Having spent over a decade in the plastics and elastomers industry, I’ve worked with Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) in countless projects, from designing consumer goods to troubleshooting manufacturing issues. One question that pops up frequently, especially from those curious about production processes, is how to determine whether a TPE product was made using injection molding. It’s

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Does TPE Material Crack Easily Over Time?

As someone who’s been working with materials like Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) for over a decade in product design and manufacturing, I’ve seen firsthand how this versatile material performs across various applications—from medical devices to consumer goods. TPE is loved for its flexibility, soft touch, and cost-effectiveness, but a question I often hear is whether it’s

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Is TPE Resin the Same as Polyester Elastomer?

Having worked in the plastics and elastomers industry for over a decade, I’ve spent countless hours navigating the nuances of materials like thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). From designing soft-touch grips to specifying materials for medical devices, I’ve seen firsthand how confusion about material terminology can trip up even seasoned professionals. One question that pops up frequently

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Does Higher TPE Injection Molding Pressure Lead to More Shrinkage?

As someone who’s spent years knee-deep in the world of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) and injection molding, I’ve seen my fair share of quirks and challenges in the process. One question that comes up often, especially from those new to TPE molding, is whether cranking up the injection pressure leads to more shrinkage in the final

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