Lakeland Plastics manufactures high-quality TPE extrusions engineered to deliver exceptional flexibility, durability, and reliable performance for a wide range of applications.
Material Name: TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)
TPE, or thermoplastic elastomer, is a highly flexible and durable material that combines the elasticity of rubber with the processing advantages of thermoplastics. Widely used in plastic extrusion, TPE delivers excellent flexibility, resilience, and impact resistance while maintaining consistent dimensional performance. Its ability to be reprocessed and customized for hardness, texture, and color makes it a versatile solution for both functional and decorative extrusion profiles. At Lakeland Plastics, we manufacture precision TPE extrusions designed to provide reliable sealing, cushioning, and protective performance across a wide range of industries.
TPE: Definition
Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a class of polymers that exhibit both thermoplastic and elastomeric properties. Unlike traditional rubber, TPE can be melted, extruded, and reprocessed using standard thermoplastic manufacturing methods. Its molecular structure allows it to stretch and return to its original shape, providing flexibility and resilience while maintaining ease of fabrication. TPE materials can be formulated in various hardness levels (durometers), allowing manufacturers to tailor performance characteristics such as softness, grip, flexibility, and impact absorption for specific extrusion applications.
Pros of TPE
- Excellent flexibility and elasticity, similar to rubber
- Wide range of hardness options for customized performance
- Strong impact resistance and shock absorption
- Good chemical resistance to many oils, greases, and cleaners
- Weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor applications
- Lightweight yet durable
- Easily extruded and reprocessed for efficient manufacturing
- Good sealing and vibration-dampening properties
- Compatible with co-extrusion processes
- Recyclable in many formulations
Cons of TPE
- Lower heat resistance compared to some engineered plastics
- May exhibit creep under prolonged heavy loads
- Can swell when exposed to certain solvents or fuels
- UV resistance may require stabilizing additives
- Generally not suitable for high-temperature structural applications
TPE Extrusion Products
- Flexible TPE tubing and hose profiles
- TPE seals and gasket profiles
- Edge trims and protective edging
- TPE weatherstripping components
- Custom TPE channels and flexible profiles
- Grip-enhancing overmold or co-extruded components
- Vibration-dampening strips and cushions
- Specialty soft-touch extrusion shapes
TPE Extrusion Applications
- Automotive seals and interior trim components
- Door and window weatherstripping
- Appliance and equipment gaskets
- Industrial vibration dampening and cushioning
- Consumer product grips and handles
- Electrical insulation and protective coverings
- Medical and healthcare components (with appropriate grades)
- Outdoor protective edging and sealing systems
Custom TPE Extrusions
At Lakeland Plastics, custom TPE extrusion is built around flexibility, precision, and performance. TPE’s rubber-like elasticity and wide durometer range make it ideal for applications requiring sealing, cushioning, vibration control, or soft-touch functionality. Whether your project calls for flexible tubing, tight-tolerance gasket profiles, or co-extruded multi-material components, our engineering team works closely with you to develop extrusions that meet exact dimensional and functional requirements. From concept and tooling design through prototyping and full production, we provide hands-on support to ensure consistent quality and reliable real-world performance. While TPE is an excellent solution for many flexible applications, Lakeland Plastics also offers a broad portfolio of thermoplastic materials—allowing us to recommend the optimal material for your specific environment and application.
TPE Plastic Extrusion Capabilities
Lakeland Plastics provides comprehensive TPE extrusion capabilities supported by advanced production lines, in-house tooling, and experienced engineering expertise. TPE’s processing versatility allows us to manufacture high-quality flexible profiles for a variety of custom applications. Our capabilities include:
- Custom TPE profiles in virtually any shape, size, or hardness level
- Flexible TPE tubing, strips, and sealing profiles in multiple diameters and wall thicknesses
- Co-extrusion and tri-extrusion for multi-material or multi-durometer components
- Color matching and soft-touch surface finishes
- Post-extrusion fabrication services including cutting, punching, drilling, assembly, and finishing
- Specialty components such as weather seals, gaskets, vibration isolators, and protective trims
With 12 production lines, modern cooling and sizing systems, and strict quality control standards, Lakeland Plastics supports everything from prototype development to high-volume production. Every TPE extrusion is manufactured to deliver consistent flexibility, long-term durability, and reliable performance across industrial, commercial, automotive, and consumer applications.