New Products: Hexpol high-flow TPEs enhance sustainability

There are several methods and materials for making automotive interior surfaces such as instrument panels and door trims.

The problem is, the processes can be costly and the materials are not recyclable.

That's why Hexpol TPE developed Dryflex HiF, a family of high melt-flow and scratch resistant TPS-SEBS materials.

The grades make it possible to produce large scale parts via injection molding, including automotive interior surfaces, trims and skins, the company said in a news release.

"OEMs are looking to improve their sustainability practices while also managing system costs," said Thomas Koppl, Hexpol TPE's group product manager. "Dryflex HiF TPEs deliver a combination of high-performance, soft-touch appeal, processing optimization and recyclability.

"They are part of our growing portfolio of materials bringing new possibilities to the automotive industry."

TPE materials already are used in automotive materials such as mats, grips and sealings. But, until recently, TPEs have not been viable for large scale trim because they have higher specifications regarding abrasion behavior, processability and heat resistance.

The new Dryflex HiF TPE grades meet these requirements and are injection moldable, Hexpol said, making them an alternative to PU coating, PVC slush molding or TPO foil processes.

"Even very large, thin parts can be produced via injection molding due to the high flowability of the Dryflex HiF TPE," Hexpol said.

More information is available on the company's website.

The New Products blog showcases innovations suppliers are introducing to the rubber industry. It focuses on new materials, machinery, molds, testing equipment, software, and other goods and services that are intended to help manufacturers of finished rubber products. The blog will appear on Tuesdays and Thursdays. To have your product considered for the blog, contact Managing Editor Erin Pustay Beaven at [email protected] or Editor Bruce Meyer at [email protected].