Processing

Dryflex and Mediprene TPE compounds combine the processability of a thermoplastic with the performance characteristics of thermoset rubber. This allows you to efficiently process any of our grades using conventional plastics processing equipment.

Processing Benefits

No vulcanisation required.
Can be processed by conventional plastics processing methods.
Short cycle times.
Good heat resistance.
Production scrap can be re-utilized.
Easy to colour.
Exceptional adhesion to thermoplastics.
Low energy consumption.

The geometry, surface finish and processing method specified for the application, together with the type of material chosen, determine the final properties of the product. It is therefore important to select the right processing method and the correct tools.

In order to achieve the most efficient method of manufacture certain general principles must be considered when tools are developed. This primarily applies to the gate, distribution canals, inlets of the mould and the ejection system.

For further information, please get in touch or read our TPE Processing Guide.

Pre-drying & storage

Dryflex and Mediprene TPE compounds are not hygroscopic and the material does not need any pre-drying if kept in normal, dry storage. When stored in these conditions, the shelf life of our TPE compounds is almost unlimited.

Colouring

It is easy to colour Dryflex and Mediprene TPE compounds. Pigmenting in the moulding process itself is very simple, gives an even coloration and is also cost-effective. The simplest way to add pigment is by means of masterbatches based on polyolefines (PE, PP).

The addition of pigment does not entail any significant changes to material properties, but hardness is slightly affected. It should be noted that colour and masterbatch may affect the properties of the product when used outdoors.

Recycling

Thanks to the thermoplastic nature of Dryflex and Mediprene TPE compounds, they can be reprocessed without problems. The physical cross-linking of the TPE molecules is reversible, which makes it possible to re-use all production waste and all defective components.