Hexpol launches high-flow TPEs for large car interior parts

Malmo, Sweden – Hexpol TPE has developed a new family of high-melt flow thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) for large-scale automotive interior surfaces, the Swedish compounder announced 30 Nov. 

Dryflex HiF grades are scratch resistant styrenic block copolymers (TPS-SEBS) materials, enabling the production of large parts via injection moulding.

The compounds can be used for automotive interior surfaces, trims and skins, the company added.

"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 optimisation and recyclability.

The new compounds are part of Hexpol TPE's portfolio of materials which are aimed at bringing new possibilities to the automotive industry.

TPE materials are already used in automotive applications such as mats, grips and sealings. 

However, until recently, TPEs have not been viable for large scale trim because they have higher specifications regarding abrasion behaviour, processability and heat resistance.

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

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