TPEs for tool handles combine performance with sustainability

Tools are indispensable devices that are used in industries and at home to perform specific tasks or functions such as cutting, drilling, measuring, fastening, or cleaning. 

From simple hand tools to more complex power tools, handles and grips can have a significant impact on a user's comfort, control, safety, and the tool's durability. To ensure the best performance and safety, consumers prefer tools with well-designed handles made of high-quality materials such as thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs).

KRAIBURG TPE, a global manufacturer of thermoplastic elastomer products and customized solutions for a variety of industries, offers high-quality TPE compounds for tool handles and grip applications. 

Material advantages to boost ergonomic and user-safety 
KRAIBURG TPE’s TPE provides ergonomic and safety benefits for tool designed applications. With the good characteristic of their mechanical properties, the TPE compounds are frequently used in applications requiring high strength, flexibility, durability, and resistance to heat, chemicals, and wear, making them ideal for frequently used tool handles and grips. 

The company’s TPE solutions have the advantage of being able to be processed using plastic processing techniques such as injection molding and extrusion, making them easy for manufacturing and providing versatility to applications. 

TPEs from KRAIBURG also offer the softness required for grips; and excellent ergonomics to provide a better grip, reducing the likelihood of workplace injuries and accidents, as well as user fatigue. 

Sustainable solutions for the Asia-Pacific market
KRAIBURG TPE offers a variety of TPE compounds to meet the needs of global manufacturers seeking cost-effective and sustainable material solutions.

For the Asia-Pacific market, KRAIBURG TPE launched the THERMOLAST® R RC/PCR/AP series, which features post-consumer recycled (PCR) content up to 48% (hardness-dependent) for a variety of applications. 

The series features good flowability, a wide hardness range of 50 to 90 Shore A, and temperature stability up to 80°C. 

The series is applicable for single component parts and also features an added advantage of adhesion to PP for multi-component parts.

KRAIBURG TPE’s THERMOLAST® R RC/PCR/AP series is an excellent alternative material for EPDM and PVC-P because it is non-sticky and can be over molded using multi-component injection molding to create comfortable, non-slip handles and grips.

Sustainability successes of our TPE
Besides the materials for tool handle and grip applications, KRAIBURG TPE’s recent sustainability innovations include a specially developed material solution for consumer, and industry applications comprising post-consumer recycled (PCR) and post-industrial recycled (PIR) content.  

Are you looking for a sustainable TPE solution? Talk to us! 
Our experts are happy to answer any questions you have, as well as to offer the right solution for your application.