Polyurethane, commonly known as TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), is a versatile polymer that combines the properties of rubber and plastic. It is a thermoplastic elastomer known for its excellent mechanical properties, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. TPU is a highly versatile material that can be processed through extrusion to create a wide range of products.

TPU is used in various industries due to its unique properties. It is commonly employed in the footwear industry for manufacturing shoe soles, midsoles, and other components. TPU’s flexibility, durability, and abrasion resistance make it an ideal material for footwear applications. TPU is also used in the automotive industry for producing gaskets, seals, and interior components. Additionally, TPU finds applications in sports and leisure equipment, medical devices, industrial components, and consumer goods. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is known for its overall toughness and flexibility at low temperatures, high tensile strength, cut resistance, high wear and abrasion resistance, and sound dampening qualities. TPU has outperformed PVC in many demanding applications.
All TPUs can be divided into two categories: esters and ethers.

Ester-based TPUs are tougher but break down when exposed to water for long periods of time. Ester-based TPUs are commonly found in industrial applications such as belting or roller covers since they’re more resistant to chemicals and oils.
Ether-based TPUs do not degrade in water but are not as tough. There are many variations of TPUs available and Spiratex will work with you to determine the best grade for your application.

Another feature of all TPUs is the degree of hardness (durometer) available. Most common TPUs fall into the A-scale, ranging from 55A to 98A. 98A durometer is roughly equivalent to 55 on the D-scale. Once the durometer reaches the D-scale, it becomes very stiff. Most applications require material in the 80A to 90A durometer range.

TPU offers several advantages over other materials. It has excellent mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, elongation, and tear resistance. TPU is highly flexible and can withstand repeated bending and stretching without breaking. It also exhibits excellent abrasion resistance, making it suitable for applications that require durability and wear resistance. Moreover, TPU provides good resistance to oils, greases, chemicals, and UV radiation.

TPU demonstrates excellent performance characteristics. It offers exceptional resilience, ensuring that it can return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. TPU has good impact resistance, allowing it to absorb energy and withstand mechanical stress. It also has a wide temperature range, maintaining its performance in both high and low temperature environments. Additionally, TPU exhibits good adhesion properties, making it compatible with various substrates.

TPU extrusion allows for customization based on specific requirements. Different grades of TPU can be extruded to achieve desired properties such as hardness, flexibility, or chemical resistance. TPU profiles can be produced in different lengths, thicknesses, and shapes to meet specific design needs. Additionally, TPU can be customized in terms of colors and textures, enabling a wide range of aesthetic possibilities.

Our capabilities with polyurethane deserve special attention, as we’ve been at the forefront of TPU extrusion since the early 1970s, when demand increased due to many flexible PVC hoses and tubes being replaced by TPU. We have worked with all major TPU suppliers throughout the years; including BASF, Lubrizol (formerly Goodrich), Dow and Bayer. Spiratex has a long history of testing new TPU designs, and we have extruded pieces reinforced with aramid fiber and tungsten-filled TPU.

At Spiratex, we specialize in TPU extrusion and have extensive expertise in producing high-quality TPU profiles. With our advanced extrusion capabilities and technical knowledge, we can deliver customized solutions that meet your specific requirements. We work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide exceptional TPU extrusion products.

Contact Spiratex today to discuss your TPU extrusion needs. Our experienced team is ready to assist you in finding the optimal TPU extrusion solution for your application. Request a quote and let us partner with you to deliver superior TPU extrusion products that meet your exact specifications.