Thermoforming

Santoprene™ TPV is a unique thermoplastic elastomer which processes well by thermoforming.

Two key factors in thermoforming are the sheet quality and the melt strength of the material during forming. Santoprene TPV sheet can be produced with uniform gauge both across and down the sheet. It extrudes at high output rates using screws and dies similar to those used for ABS. Although Santoprene TPV is an olefinic-based system, its thermoforming characteristics are quite similar to ABS. It has very good melt strength, which provides uniform and predictable sag characteristics during heating.

Parts thermoformed from Santoprene TPV can take advantage of the unique balance of material properties. Many of the attributes of Santoprene TPV sheet which can be incorporated into a thermoformed part include:

• Colorability (impact resistant)
• Weatherability (excellent chemical resistance)
• Non-skid (matte surface in appearance and feel)
• Flexible
• Resistant to a variety of fluids

Santoprene TPV sheet should be processed at melt temperatures of 160 to 190°C (320 to 375°F), depending on the grade of material selected. Draw ratios of up to 3:1 have been successfully molded with the harder grades of Santoprene TPV (73 Shore A and higher). Sheet should be dried at 65 to 70°C (150 to 160°F) prior to thermoforming. The quality of the sheet (i.e., sheet appearance, surface, etc.) determines the quality of the finished part. Care should be taken when producing sheet for thermoformed applications.