In Life Science Uses, TPE Is Preferred Over Silicone
How to Choose the Most Appropriate Material for Fluid Seals for Diagnostic or Medical Equipment
In diagnostic, medical, pharmaceutical, or other life science applications, including microfluidic chip-based technologies, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and silicone (especially liquid silicone rubber, or LSR) are both frequently considered for fluid seals. Liquid silicone rubber (LSR) is the most common form of silicone. Both display elastomeric and rubber-like qualities, and both have a degree of dependability in sealing applications owing to the flexibility of their materials and their resistance to fluids. This is due to the fact that both types of materials are resilient to fluids.
It is important to take into account both the end use and the production volume when selecting the appropriate material to utilize for the fluid seal component that is particular to your fluid system. In order to make the best decision for your product, you need to take into account a number of factors, one of which is the effect that the material has on its capacity to be manufactured (see the table below). tpe vs silicone
While silicone can withstand high temperatures and consistent pressure, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) also complies with many of the medical heat and pressure standards. Some thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) designed for medical use may resist temperatures of more than 90 degrees Celsius (PCR) or 130 degrees Fahrenheit (autoclave). The fundamental advantage of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a simpler and more durable manufacturing method when compared to silicone. This is an advantage that delivers long-term advantages such as quicker and more cost-effective production as well as better seals when overmolded.
When producing in huge volumes, TPE may prove to be a material option that is both quick and economical. A wise option for a seamless transition to mass production may be to prototype using thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). When it comes to consumables that need to be produced on a large scale (such as disposables or cartridges), thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) may be a better alternative than silicone for optimizing manufacturing costs and ensuring the efficiency of sealing. Rather than beginning the development stage with silicone and converting to TPE at a later point, starting with TPE and choosing a TPE solution from the beginning of the development stage might save time and money for projects that are looking to eventually scale up.
On the other hand, if the component has to be resistant to high temperatures and pressures and will only be changed seldom, silicone may be the superior choice.
These are, of course, generalizations; applications relating to life science are sometimes replete with very particular needs. The particular circumstances of each project should always guide the selection of the sealing material to be used.
Are you trying to decide whether to use thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or liquid silicone rubber (LSR) for the fluid-sealing section of your diagnostic, bioprocessing, or medicinal device? Over the last twenty years, we have assisted market-leading customers in resolving production issues in order to provide TPE fluid seals that can be relied upon. Just get in touch with us at any time, as we are always here to provide answers to queries.
TPE vs. Silicone Guide
When deciding between thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and liquid silicone rubber (LSR) for high volume fluid-sealing production, it is essential to have a solid understanding of the manufacturability of each material as well as its other characteristics in order to make the best decision for your particular endeavor.
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