Automotive elastomers should be selected for the component design, processing method and service conditions. This article introduces five categories: TPO, TPV, TPEE, TPU and TPS.
Application areas discussed include seals, protective covers, hoses and other elastic parts. Different systems and formulations meet different needs; category names alone do not establish performance.
Compare TPV and conventional vulcanized rubber using specific grades and requirements for processing, compression set, density, coloring and reprocessing. Comparison data should identify the grades, conditions and materials being compared.