🧩 TPE-S – Styrenic Elastomer (SBS / SEBS)
(Elastic, thermoplastic, and soft-touch material obtained from styrene block copolymers. It is one of the most common TPE types used for gaskets, soft grips, and anti-vibration elements. It can be easily melted and welded.)
🔹 What is TPE-S
TPE-S (Thermoplastic Elastomer Styrenic) is a family of block copolymers composed of rigid styrenic segments and flexible elastomeric segments (SBS or SEBS). This combination creates a rubbery yet thermoplastic material that is easy to process. At ReplastMD, we often handle TPE-S when repairing overmolded parts, as it bonds exceptionally well with PP and ABS.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Base: Styrene block copolymer (SBS or SEBS).
- Density: 0.9 – 1.1 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 180 – 220 °C.
- Hardness Range: 20A – 90A (Shore).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 80 – 100 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good for water/detergents; poor for oils.
🚗 Where TPE-S is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Soft Gaskets | Trunk seals, headlight seals | Flexible, airtight, soft look |
| Soft Grips | Shifters, handbrakes, buttons | Pleasant tactile feel |
| Protective Boots | Flexible hoses, brake bellows | Vibration damping, mechanical strength |
| Overmolded Parts | TPE-S inserts on PP panels | Excellent PP-TPE-S compatibility |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 240 – 260 °C | Clean, elastic weld |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 230 – 250 °C | Bubble-free, uniform bond |
| Plastic Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Use compatible TPE-S / TPE rods |
| Ultrasonic | — | Possible for thin-walled parts |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPE-S (same type), SEBS, SBS, TPE, TPO, PP.
- ⚠️ Partial: ABS (requires special surface treatment/primer).
- ❌ Incompatible: PA, PC, POM, PVC, PE-HD (different polarities/melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: For a perfect weld, use TPE-S or SEBS rods at 250 °C with gentle pressure and slow cooling. Avoid overheating to prevent the material from becoming too sticky on the surface.
🧠 How to Identify TPE-S
- Rubbery, soft, and elastic texture; immediate recovery after stretching.
- ReplastMD practical test: Softens easily at 200–220 °C without heavy smoke or strong odor.
- Markings: >TPE-S<, >SBS<, >SEBS<, >TPR<.
- Surface is usually matte and sometimes feels slightly oily.
🛠️ TPE-S Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for TPE-S (SBS, SEBS) components, recreating the soft and elastic zones of automotive parts with a “good as new” finish.