HEXPOL develops TPE materials that meet design, flammability, and recycled-content targets for heavy-duty industrial use

HEXPOL and Bosch develop new thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) materials that are UL certified for flammability ratings and have high levels of recycled content.

The TPE materials are part of the Dryflex Circular TPE range. They incorporate over 50% recyclate content from PIR and PCR sources. The new solutions will be used for power-tool grips and housing in the Bosch Professional line, designed for trade professionals and heavy-duty industrial use.

HEXPOL developed new TPE materials that meet flammability and recycled-content demands for Bosch Professional line.

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 synchronized, the TPEs can be overmolded 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,” said Christian Berg, Research & Development Manager at HEXPOL TPE GmbH.