Flexible Materials

Injection Molding of Flexible Materials and Plastics

When Molding Flexible Materials…Our Quality Remains Rigid

Product designers can achieve great results by specifying any number of flexible materials for their components. However, injection molding of flexible materials presents unique challenges.

For example, with over-molded parts, poor adhesion to the substrate may result in peeling, curling, fraying, or delamination. If your project requires injection molding of flexible materials, Injection Works is ready to help. We have extensive technical expertise and proficiency injection molding these flexible materials:

• TPE – Thermoplastic Elastomer
• TPV – Thermoplastic Vulcanizate – Such as Santoprene
• TPU – Thermoplastic Urethane
• Flexible PVC – Polyvinyl Chloride

Not sure which flexible material might be best for your application?
Here’s a short summary of four of the most common families of flexible resins:

Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE) represents a class of copolymers that typically provide the best characteristics of both rubber like materials and plastics. Because TPEs offer a rubber like consistency and can be injection molded, TPEs are widely used in the home appliance and automotive sector.

Thermoplastic Vulcanizates (TPV) Santoprene, a common TPV, is one of the more widely used thermoplastic rubbers. Santoprene has both excellent flexibility and durability yet it can be processed in a similar fashion to plastics. Santoprene is frequently used by the automotive industry, in household goods, sporting goods (including ski pole handles and wet suits) as well as industrial applications such as tool grips and caster wheels.

Thermoplastic Urethane (TPU) is another type of thermoplastic elastomer that bridges the gap between plastics and rubber. TPUs have excellent durability, strength and manufacturing qualities. As a result, TPUs are used in a variety of applications from flexible tubing, food processing equipment, wire and cable coatings to swim fins and goggles.

Flexible Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is one of the most widely used thermoplastics. Flexible PVC incorporates the use of plasticizers to make the material more flexible. Injection molding of flexible PVC presents certain challenges in determining the optimal formulation. However, the demand for quality flexible PVC products remains high as it is used in an array of applications including electrical cable insulation, inflatable products, even clothing and upholstery.

Consistent Quality and Reliability

Injection Works is a recognized market leader in the molding of flexible materials. To eliminate any confusion and guarantee the success of your flexible component projects, you can rely on our years of experience, state of the art facility and tireless dedication to our customers’ needs.

If you are ready to get started or if you simply have a question about flexible material molding

Contact Us Now   to speak with an expert.