TPE (thermoplastic elastomer, including TPV) behaves like soft rubber but is processed like plastic, so it can be coloured easily, welded at corners and recycled. It is common in uPVC window gaskets and slot-type door bottom strips. General grades work from about –40 °C to +100 °C; compared with EPDM it costs a little more and has somewhat higher compression set at high temperature.
Typical properties
| Property | TPE |
|---|---|
| Typical service temperature | about –40 °C to +100 °C |
| UV / weather | Good |
| Colours | Any colour |
| Corner welding | Yes – thermoplastic |
| Compression set at heat | Higher than EPDM |
| Relative cost | Medium |
Typical ranges for general-purpose compounds, for comparison only. The exact compound, hardness and section decide the real performance – tell us your conditions and we propose a material.
Good choice for
- Window and door frame gaskets (weldable corners)
- Slot-type door bottom strips
- Coloured soft profiles
Avoid it for
- Seals under long-term compression at high temperature