HEXPOL Develops Custom TPE Materials for Bosch that Meet Multiple Strict Design Requirements

HEXPOL worked with Bosch to develop new thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) materials that are UL certified for flammability ratings and have high levels of recycled content. The TPE materials will be used for power-tool grips and housing in the Bosch Professional line, designed for trade professionals and heavy-duty industrial use.

Part of the Dryflex Circular TPE range, the new materials incorporate over 50 per cent recyclate content from PIR and PCR sources.

The TPE materials have been certified according to several flammability and safety standards by UL:

• IEC 60695-11-10 Horizontal Flame Test
• IEC 60695-2-12 Glow Wire Flammability Index (GWFI)
• IEC 60695-2-13 Glow Wire Ignition Temperature (GWIT)
• UL 746S Evaluation of Sustainable Polymeric Materials for Use in Electrical Equipment

While flammability testing such as UL 94 and IEC 60695 are well-established industry standards, UL 746S was published in 2023. It sets rules for testing recycled plastics, blended with virgin materials, for use in electrical equipment.

Product appearance and haptics were also key considerations for Bosch. The Dryflex TPEs were developed to resist migration and hand perspiration, and to provide a pleasant surface for a secure grip. Adhesion synchronised, the TPEs can be overmoulded onto thermoplastic substrates such as polypropylene (PP) and glass-filled polyamide (PA 66).

“Balancing mechanical demands, strict flammability and high levels of recycled content made this an interesting material development. We’re proud to offer Bosch TPE materials that deliver the durability and high quality required for their renowned products while meeting circularity goals.” – Christian Berg, Research & Development Manager at HEXPOL TPE GmbH.

About HEXPOL Thermoplastics

HEXPOL’s Thermoplastics business area brings together an international team across three continents. They develop customized thermoplastic materials for industries such as mobility, infrastructure, energy, consumer and medical. With a portfolio covering 20+ material groups, including engineering thermoplastics, reinforced polyolefins, TPE, rotomoulding materials, colour and additive masterbatch, and cable compounds. HEXPOL Thermoplastics offers global reach with local support to deliver proven solutions tailored to application, technology and sustainability targets.

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