🧩 TPE-ECO – Ethylene-based Thermoplastic Elastomer (Ether-Carbonate)
(A next-generation copolyester elastomer (COPE) consisting of polyether-carbonate soft segments and rigid polyester segments. It offers high thermal stability, ozone resistance, and constant elasticity from –40 °C to +180 °C.)
🔹 What is TPE-ECO
TPE-ECO is an advanced engineering material. At ReplastMD, we treat it as the ultimate evolution of the COPE family. The polycarbonate-ether chains provide superior durability against heat, oxidation, and moisture compared to standard TPC-ET. It is the preferred choice for high-fatigue applications in aggressive chemical environments, such as modern engine bellows and high-temp gaskets.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: Polyester Segments (PBT/PET) ~60% + Polyether-carbonate segments ~40%.
- Density: ~ 1.18 – 1.25 g/cm³.
- Operating Range: -40 °C to +180 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Outstanding (oil, fuel, ozone, steam).
- Visuals: Smooth, semi-glossy, elastic; grey, black, or translucent.
🚗 Where it is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Bellows / Engine Hoses | VW, BMW, Toyota | Constant elasticity + oil/fuel resistance |
| Anti-vibration Mounts | Mercedes, Ford | Resistance to fatigue and repeated wear |
| EGR / Hot Air Ducts | Renault, Peugeot | Structural stability up to +180 °C |
| Flexible Connectors | Hyundai, Dacia | Chemical resistance + controlled flexibility |
🔧 Welding and Bonding Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 250 – 270 °C | Clean weld without bubbles or burning |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | ✅ Recommended | Strong, uniform, and durable bonding |
| Ultrasonic | ✅ Ideal | Excellent for thin-walled technical parts |
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Weld at ~260 °C using digital temperature control or teflon-coated heating plates. TPE-ECO is the eco-friendly and most thermostable version of classic COPE, ideal for high-resistance hoses and bellows.