🧩 TPU – Thermoplastic Polyurethane
(Elastic thermoplastic material formed by soft blocks (polyester/polyether) and hard blocks (urethane), giving it exceptional elasticity, hardness, and mechanical strength. TPU combines rubber properties with thermoplastic processability.)
🔹 What is TPU
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a block copolymer that we at ReplastMD define as the king of abrasion resistance. Its structure provides a unique combination of elasticity and durability against oils, fuels, and mechanical shocks. It remains flexible at extreme temperatures (-40 °C) and can be engineered to be perfectly transparent. It is fully weldable, injectable, and recyclable.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Polymer Base: Thermoplastic polyurethane (polyester or polyether type).
- Density: 1.10 – 1.25 g/cm³.
- Hardness (Shore A/D): 65 A – 75 D.
- Operating Range: –40 °C to +120 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent (oils, water, fuels).
🚗 Where TPU is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Hoses & Gaskets | Water, oil, fuel lines | Elastic, resistant, and leak-proof |
| Bellows & Dampers | Protectors, suspensions, sensors | Flexible in both cold and heat |
| Covers & Clips | Fasteners, protectors, trim | Lightweight, durable, recyclable |
| Interior Elements | Inserts, handles, soft panels | Rubbery texture, pleasant touch |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Compatibility | Observations |
| Hot Air | ✅ Excellent | 240 – 260 °C; clear, smooth melt |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | ✅ Very Good | 240 – 255 °C; uniform bonding |
| Manual Extrusion | ✅ Recommended | 245 – 260 °C; compatible TPU rod |
| Ultrasonic | ✅ Possible | Efficient for small technical parts |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: TPU, TPU+PA, Desmopan, Pearlthane, Elastollan – Excellent.
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PTFE, POM, PVC – different melting points, no adhesion.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: TPU welds exceptionally well with hot air at ≈ 250 °C. Maintain constant pressure during cooling and ensure the surface is free of oil or dust before welding.
🧠 How to Identify TPU
- Glossy, smooth, soft-elastic surface.
- Color: Translucent, transparent, or glossy black.
- ReplastMD practical test: Burns with a clean flame, faint urethane odor, no heavy dripping. Softens cleanly at 250 °C.
- Common markings: >TPU<, >DESMOPAN<, >PEARLTHANE<, >ELASTOLLAN<.
🛠️ TPU Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional TPU welding for bellows, hoses, and technical flexible parts. We guarantee a clear, glossy, and airtight joint — plastic as good as new.