It will leading to deformation or collapse of the product when the TPU material is too soft. It may become brittle and crack when the TPU material is too hard particularly for phone cases, watch bands or sport equipment products that require flexibility and durability. So, it is very important to choose appropriate hardness of TPU material.

What will the hardness of TPU influence the products

1.Mechanical properties: TPU with higher hardness will have a higher stiffness and strength compared to TPU with lower hardness.

2.Abrasion resistance: Products made with harder TPU will be more abrasion-resistant as they will be more resistant to wear and tear.

3.Durability: Harder TPU will also enhance the durability of the product, making it more long-lasting.

4.Comfort: Products made with softer TPU will offer enhanced comfort to the users as they will have better flexibility and cushioning.

5.Manufacturing process: The hardness of TPU also influences the manufacturing process of the products. Harder TPU requires different manufacturing techniques compared to softer TPU, which affects the complexity and cost of production.

6.Applications: The choice of TPU hardness should be based on the intended application of the product. For example, harder TPU is suitable for applications such as manufacturing of automotive parts, phone cases, and industrial products, whereas softer TPU is preferred in the production of footwear, sports equipment, and medical devices.

How to choose the hardness of TPU material

1.Understand the Application: The choice of TPU hardness should be based on the intended application of the product. For example, harder TPU is suitable for applications such as manufacturing of automotive parts, phone cases, and industrial products, whereas softer TPU is preferred in the production of footwear, sports equipment, and medical devices.

2.Conduct a Test: Once the application is identified, the next step is to conduct a test to determine the suitable hardness. Test the hardness of the products by using a handheld Shore A durometer.

3.Consult with a Supplier: It may be valuable to consult with a TPU supplier to help identify the right hardness. KUNSUN POLYMER COMPANY that focus on R&D and manufacture TPU for over 30 years have a lot of experience working with TPU materials and can provide insight into the best hardness for your specific application.

4. Consider Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, can affect the performance of TPU materials. If the TPU material will be exposed to high temperatures or humidity, a higher hardness may be necessary to ensure it maintains its properties.