When I first started working in the polymer industry, I was fascinated by the versatility of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers)—their soft-touch feel, flexibility, and ability to take on vibrant colors made them a go-to for everything from automotive trim to outdoor gear. But one challenge I’ve seen trip up even experienced manufacturers is UV degradation, especially […]

As a veteran in the polymer processing industry, I’ve spent countless hours troubleshooting issues that pop up during TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) injection molding. One of the most persistent and frustrating problems is air bubbles—those pesky little voids that ruin the appearance, strength, and functionality of molded parts. Whether you’re crafting soft-touch grips, medical device components,

If you’ve ever held a freshly molded TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) part only to notice unsightly dents or uneven surfaces, you’re likely dealing with shrinkage and sink marks. As someone who’s spent years troubleshooting polymer processing issues, I know how frustrating this can be. These defects not only ruin the aesthetics of a product but can

As someone who’s spent years knee-deep in the world of polymers, I’ve seen the highs and lows of working with TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomers). These versatile materials are a favorite in industries ranging from automotive to consumer goods, thanks to their flexibility, durability, and ease of processing. But there’s one issue that can stop even seasoned

Having spent over a decade in the plastics and polymer industry, I’ve encountered my fair share of production mishaps, and one that pops up repeatedly is the accidental mixing of materials like PC (Polycarbonate) and TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer). Whether it’s due to operator error, poor inventory management, or equipment contamination, this issue can bring production

As someone who has been deeply engaged in the polymer materials industry for years, I understand the unique “temperament” of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) materials in practical applications. Recently, many friends have reached out to me with a common yet frustrating issue—wax bloom on TPE surfaces. This problem may seem straightforward, but it involves multiple factors,

Having spent over a decade in the plastics and elastomer industry, I’ve worked with TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) materials across applications from automotive seals to soft-touch grips. One question that keeps popping up, especially from folks new to injection molding, is: “How do I set hot runner temperatures for TPE to get consistent, high-quality parts?” It’s

As someone who’s been in the materials industry for years, I’ve seen firsthand how TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) has become a go-to material for countless products. From shoe soles to seals and even children’s toys, TPE’s softness, durability, and eco-friendliness make it a favorite. Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of questions from peers asking, “How

When I first started working in the materials science field, I was captivated by the unique properties of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer). It’s not quite rubber, not quite plastic, but somehow it combines the best of both worlds. One question that pops up frequently from designers, manufacturers, and curious folks alike is: Why is TPE so

When I started my career in the plastics industry, I was amazed by the versatility of TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer). Its soft, rubber-like feel combined with the ease of plastic processing made it a go-to material for everything from phone cases to medical devices. But one question I’ve heard time and again from colleagues, clients, and