🧩 TPE+TPV – Hybrid Elastomer (TPE + Vulcanized)
(Flexible and resistant hybrid material resulting from blending TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) with TPV (vulcanized EPDM+PP). It combines TPE’s malleability with TPV’s durability and resistance.)
🔹 What is TPE+TPV
TPE+TPV is a compatibilized compound designed to merge the elastic and weldable properties of TPE with the high chemical and thermal resistance of TPV. At ReplastMD, we treat this as a high-durability elastomer. It is softer than pure TPV but more resistant than standard TPE, maintaining excellent weldability and UV stability for critical automotive components.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Flex Phase: TPE (TPE-O / TPE-S / TPU).
- Resistant Phase: TPV (Vulcanized EPDM + PP).
- Density: 0.9 – 1.1 g/cm³.
- Melting Point: 180 – 220 °C.
- Continuous Operating Temp: –40 °C to +130 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Very good (oils, detergents, ozone).
🚗 Where TPE+TPV is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Soft/Semi-rigid Seals | Doors, trunk, rear window | Elasticity and UV stability |
| Boots & Covers | Steering, brake, suspension | Oil and cold resistance |
| Grips & Protection | Steering wheel, shifter | Soft and anti-slip surface |
| Anti-vibration | Mounts, buffers, inserts | Elasticity + fatigue resistance |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 240 – 260 °C | Uniform, flexible weld |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 230 – 250 °C | Clean bonding, bubble-free |
| Manual Extrusion | 240 – 260 °C | Use TPE / TPE-V / PP rods |
| Ultrasonic | — | Possible for thin sections |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPE+TPV, TPE-V, TPE-O, PP, TPO.
- ⚠️ Partial: TPE-S, TPE-E, TPU (acceptable bond).
- ❌ Incompatible: PA, PC, POM, PVC (different melting points).
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Optimal welding is achieved at 250 °C with compatible TPE-V or PP rods. Maintain constant pressure to ensure uniform adhesion between the TPE and TPV phases.
🧠 How to Identify TPE+TPV
- Rubbery texture, soft but dense feel.
- Moderate elasticity with slow recovery.
- Color: Black, gray, beige; low gloss.
- ReplastMD practical test: If the part is soft and elastic but heavier than simple TPE and welds beautifully with PP/TPE-V rods, it’s TPE+TPV.
- Common markings: >TPE+TPV<, >TPE/TPV<, >SANTOPRENE BLEND<.
🛠️ TPE+TPV Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for hybrid elastomers like Santoprene® blends. Using industrial-grade Leister tools, we ensure a flexible, oil-resistant, and high-strength finish — plastic as good as new.