TPU is a thermoplastic elastomer that structurally lies between rubber and plastic, featuring a microphase separation structure with hard segments (typically polyurethane) and soft segments (such as polyether or polyester). This structure grants TPU excellent physical strength and thermal stability. Generally, TPU's heat resistance range is from -40°C to 80°C. Some modified products can even withstand continuous use temperatures above 100°C, and their short-term heat resistance can reach up to 120°C.
TPU is widely used as a cable sheath material, particularly suitable for industrial control lines, robot cables, charging pile cables, and other applications operating in high-temperature environments. Compared to traditional PVC or rubber materials, TPU sheaths do not easily melt or release toxic gases under high temperatures while maintaining flexibility and wear resistance, ensuring stable equipment operation and extending service life.
The interior of automobiles, especially the engine bay, is a typical high-temperature, high-vibration environment. TPU materials can be used for air ducts, fuel system seals, interior covers, and more. Their excellent thermal stability can effectively prevent performance degradation caused by temperature fluctuations, enhancing the safety and durability of automotive components. Additionally, TPU has good oil resistance and chemical corrosion resistance, meeting the demands of the complex automotive environment.
With the development of smart wearable devices, higher requirements for materials' heat resistance and comfort have emerged. TPU is widely used in watch straps, sports gear, smart bracelet casings, and other products. These devices often come into prolonged contact with the body and must maintain flexibility, not deform, or fade even at body temperature or slightly higher. TPU demonstrates excellent heat stability and skin-friendliness in such applications.
Some TPU materials possess a certain ability to withstand high-temperature steam sterilization, making them suitable for producing medical catheters, laboratory hoses, seals, and other products with stringent temperature and hygiene requirements. They need to endure repeated high-temperature sterilization while maintaining flexibility and dimensional stability, which is precisely the advantage of TPU materials.
TPU heat resistance makes it an ideal material for high-temperature applications across various industries. From industrial cables to automotive parts, and from smart wearables to medical products, TPU offers high performance and safety while also aligning with modern manufacturing demands for environmental friendliness and recyclability. With the development of new modification technologies, the limits of TPU heat resistance will continuously be surpassed, and its application scenarios will become even more extensive.
