Thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) are a group of polymeric materials which bridge the gap between thermoplastic and thermoset rubber. Several types of TPEs are available, but thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) type demonstrates material performance that most closely matches these of thermoset rubber, i.e. heat, oil, weather resistance, mechanical properties, rubbery appearance and soft touch. Being an effective replacement of thermoset rubber, polyolefins based TPVs are the fastest growing TPEs, originating from the introduction of Santoprene thermoplastic rubber in 1981, an Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer-PP (EPDM-PP) fully vulcanised TPE. Thanks to the excellent balance between performance and processing, Santoprene rubber is used in many automotive applications as thermoset rubber replacements or compliment to thermoset rubber parts. Weatherseals or car body sealing systems are used in the car as a sealing element against water, air and noise dampening, as sliding guide for windows and should provide aesthetic aspect in-line with total car design. Engineered TPE, especially products like Santoprene thermoplastic rubber are already demonstrating their performance capability in automotive weatherseal applications. These materials are able to overcome the recognised thermoset rubber limitations. An excellent cost/performance balance, a potential weight reduction, colouring options and co-extrusion with rigid thermoplastic materials are the key advantages versus classical EPDM thermoset rubber profile system. Excellent track records in solid static and dynamic sealing applications are giving the confidence for further penetration. The ability to foam TPEs with water as blowing agent is a breakthrough and now thermoset sponge applications can also be replaced with an environmental friendly TPE process. The automotive industry has recognised the potential of engineered thermoplastic elastomers and is pushing the supply chain to offer TPE based weatherseal systems.
Innovative TPE solutions in automotive weatherseal applications
1998
7 Seiten, 13 Bilder, 1 Tabelle, 7 Quellen
Conference paper
English
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