TPE Overmolding

1.What is Overmolding

Overmolding is a injection molding process where one material is molded into a second material. Here we mainly talk about TPE overmolding. TPE is called thermoplastic Elastomer, it is a functional material with both rubber elasticity and plastic stiffness which can be injected and extruded directly.

2.What should be noted when TPE overmolding
1)The compatibility of TPE and hard rubber structural parts should be matched. The molecular solubility should be close, so the compatibility of molecules is good.
2)Sharp corners shall be avoid as much as possible to ensure good contact between TPE and hard rubber parts and improve bonding effect.
3)Avoid gas in the mold cavity by using proper exhaust way.
4)Balance the thickness of the TPE with the expected tactile sensation.
5)Keep the rated temperature of the TPE melt
6)TPE materials need to be baked and reprocessed to reduce the surface ripples of products and obtain the effect of uniform surface color.
7)Special treatment is required for the smooth surface to increase the bonding surface between the soft rubber and the hard rubber thereby enhancing the bonding effect.
8)TPE should have good fluidity.

3.The Application of TPE Overmolding
TPE material has good slip resistance and an elastic touch, which can improve the touch feeling of the product and enhance the grip. TPE can also be adjusted to the appropriate hardness (hardness range Shore 30-90A) and physical property (such as abrasion resistance, scratch resistance, adhesion index...etc.), to be widely used for different products.
Below are some common application field:

* Daily supplies
knives, combs, scissors, suitcases, toothbrush handles,etc
* Tools
screwdriver, hammer, saw, electric tool, electric drill, etc.
*Game product parts
The steering wheel, handle, mouse cover, pad, shell cover, soft and shockproof parts of the amusement device.
* Sports equipment
golf balls, various rackets, bicycles, ski equipment, water skiing equipment, etc.
* Consumer electronics
mobile phone protective case, tablet computer protective case, smart wrist watch, electric toothbrush handle, etc.
* Medical devices
syringes, masks, etc