Learn the Basics of Thermoplastic Elastomer Gloves: What You Need To Know

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a material that is similar to a rubbery sort of plastic, but much stronger and more durable. They’re also known as thermoplastic elastomeric or TPE gloves because they’re made from the same stuff that makes up rubber. A thermoplastic elastomer is in a lot of our daily products, from athletic shoes to inflatable pool toys. It's an ideal material for making soft and flexible materials like these gloves because it can be stretched over an unlimited amount of space without breaking. All these properties make TPE gloves an excellent option for occupational settings like manufacturing plants and food processing facilities.

What is a Thermoplastic Elastomer Glove?

TPE is a silicone-based polymer that’s used to make a variety of different products and materials. However, TPE is also found in healthcare products and food packaging. The reason that it’s so common in healthcare products is that it’s used to make hypoallergenic gloves.

Different Types of Thermoplastic Elastomer Gloves

Many different types of TPE can be made, and each one has a different set of properties and features. These gloves are made of an elastomeric material that’s coated in silicone. This makes the gloves much more durable, and it also makes them more durable against liquids than silicone gloves. These gloves can also withstand colder temperatures. These gloves are made from a thick, high-tech thermoplastic elastomer that is impregnated with a special polymer to make it resistant to oils and chemicals. This makes them an excellent choice for industries like automotive manufacturing or the food industry, where oil and chemicals are a regular part of the work environment. Thermoplastic elastomer gloves that are made from a blend of thermoplastic elastomer and synthetic rubber are perfect for environments where a natural rubber glove would be too thick. These gloves are much more flexible than other TPE gloves, so they’re ideal for tasks that involve fine manipulation. TPE work gloves can be made out of a variety of properties, including leather, fabric, or a combination of both. However, most TPE work gloves use silicone as a coating, so they’re much more durable than gloves made with natural rubber.

When Should You Use Thermoplastic Elastomer Gloves?

TPE gloves are an excellent option for occupational settings like manufacturing plants and food processing facilities. They can withstand oil and chemical splashes, and they can stand up to temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re also great for handling hot liquids and solids, as well as for cold tasks like freezing or thawing food. TPE gloves also make a great choice for industries like automotive manufacturing where oil and chemicals are a regular part of the work environment. These gloves can withstand oil, grease, and chemicals without deteriorating. TPE work gloves are also a good choice for workers who need to wear gloves all day, like construction workers or truck drivers. Natural rubber gloves tend to thicken as they get wet, and this makes them less comfortable to wear. TPE gloves are much more flexible and durable, so they don’t become uncomfortable even when wet.

Benefits of Using TPE Gloves

- They’re Durable - TPE work gloves can withstand temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit and liquids, so they can stand up to some of the most demanding work environments. You can also expect these gloves to remain intact even when exposed to oil and chemicals.

- They’re Lightweight - TPE work gloves are much lighter than natural rubber gloves. This makes them a better fit for long days spent doing strenuous work.

- They’re Flexible - TPE work gloves are more flexible than natural rubber gloves, so they’re more comfortable to wear for long days of work.

- They’re Less Expensive - TPE is much cheaper than natural rubber, making it an excellent investment.

- They’re More Hygienic - Natural rubber gloves can get slippery when they get wet, which isn’t as important as TPE work gloves.

- They preserve Your Hands - Natural rubber gloves can get uncomfortably stiff and hot when you’re wearing them for long periods. TPE work gloves are much more sanitary, and they don’t get as hot as natural rubber gloves do.

- They’re Safer - TPE work gloves are less likely to slip off your hands and cause injuries, like cuts or scrapes. - They’re More Sustainable - Because TPE is much cheaper than natural rubber, it’s much more sustainable.

TPE Glove Disadvantages and Limitations

TPE is a safe option for many industries, but it does have its limitations. TPE gloves aren’t as durable as natural rubber gloves, so they’re not recommended for heavy-duty tasks. They’re also less flexible than natural rubber gloves, so they’re not as comfortable to wear for extended periods. TPE has several advantages over natural rubber, but it isn’t as durable or resistant to chemicals and oils. TPE also doesn’t last as long as natural rubber.

Final Words: Is Thermoplastic Elastomer Right For You?

A thermoplastic elastomer is a great material for many different applications, but each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. You should consider these factors when deciding which type of TPE glove is right for you. If you work in a challenging environment that calls for long hours in the rain or extreme cold, you should look into natural rubber gloves. Natural rubber is much more durable and resistant to oil and chemicals than thermoplastic elastomer gloves. If you spend a lot of time manipulating small objects, heating or cooling food, or handling liquids, you should consider a pair of TPE work gloves. They’re much more durable and flexible than silicone work gloves, so you’ll have less discomfort while wearing them.