🧩 TPU-Pearlthane – Thermoplastic Polyurethane (Pearlthane® ECO)
(Thermoplastic elastomeric material from the polyurethane family, manufactured from partially bio-based plant oils. Pearlthane® ECO TPU combines rubber-like elasticity with the mechanical strength of plastics.)
🔹 What is TPU-Pearlthane
Pearlthane® ECO TPU is a block copolymer featuring rigid (isocyanate) and soft (polyester or polyether) segments. At ReplastMD, we value this material for its ability to reduce carbon footprint without compromising on durability. It remains highly flexible and resistant to oils, fuels, and abrasion. It is a 100% recyclable material that handles high-impact stress exceptionally well.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: TPU copolymer (polyester/polyether segments).
- Origin: 30–50 % bio-renewable sources (Pearlthane ECO).
- Density: 1.10 – 1.25 g/cm³.
- Hardness (Shore A/D): 70 A – 55 D.
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent (oils, greases, fuels).
- UV Resistance: Good (with UV stabilizers).
🚗 Where TPU-Pearlthane is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Flexible Hoses | Fuel, air, brake lines | Oil, pressure, and heat resistant |
| Dynamic Gaskets | Rings, bellows, dampers | Elasticity and wear resistance |
| Protective Parts | Covers, clamps, sleeves | Stable, won’t crack in cold |
| Aesthetic Parts | Emblems, inserts, grilles | Glossy finish, easily colorable |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Compatibility | Observations |
| Hot Air | ✅ Excellent | 230 – 260 °C; clean, smooth melt |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | ✅ Very Good | 230 – 250 °C; glossy bonding |
| Manual Extrusion | ✅ Recommended | 240 – 260 °C with compatible TPU rod |
| Ultrasonic | ✅ Possible | For thin technical parts |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPU, Pearlthane, Desmopan, Elastollan – Excellent.
- ⚠️ Partial: PA, PC, PBT (with special primer).
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PTFE, POM, PVC – no adhesion, different melting points.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: TPU-Pearlthane welds very well with hot air at ≈ 250 °C using TPU rods or tape. Maintain constant pressure during cooling for a smooth and airtight joint.
🧠 How to Identify TPU-Pearlthane
- Surface: Glossy, soft, and slightly elastic.
- Color: Transparent, pale yellow, or colored.
- ReplastMD practical test: Very resistant to deformation; burns with a clean flame and faint urethane scent. No soot.
- Common markings: >TPU<, >PEARLTHANE<, >ECO-TPU<.
🛠️ TPU-Pearlthane Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional welding for Pearlthane® ECO hoses, gaskets, and protectors. We utilize precise heat control to ensure a glossy, smooth, and transparent finish — plastic as good as new.