Description / Abstract:
This classification system tabulates the properties of
thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) that are intended for, but not
limited to, use in automotive applications.
NOTE 1—For the purposes of this document a TPE is defined as a
polymeric material that, without further chemical modification, is
capable of recovering from deformations quickly and forcibly and is
also capable of being repeatedly softened by heating and hardened
by cooling within a temperature range characteristic of the
material.
NOTE 2—When the TPE product is to be used for purposes where the
requirements are too specific to be completely prescribed by this
classification system, it is necessary for the purchaser to consult
the supplier in advance to establish the appropriate properties,
test methods, and specification test limits.
This classification system is based on the premise that the
properties of TPEs can be arranged into characteristic material
designations. These designations are determined by type, based on
resistance to heat aging; and class, based on resistance to volume
change resulting from oil immersion. Basic levels are thus
established which, together with values describing additional
requirements, permit complete description of the properties of all
TPEs.
In all cases where provisions of this classification system
would conflict with those of the detailed specifications for a
particular product, the latter shall take precedence.
This classification is based on SI units.
Purpose—The purpose of this classification
system is to provide guidance to the engineer in the selection of
practical, commercially available TPE materials, and further, to
provide a method by which these materials may be specified by the
use of a simple line call-out designation.
This classification system was developed to permit the addition
of descriptive values for future materials without complete
reorganization of the classification system and to facilitate the
incorporation of future new methods of test to keep pace with
changing industry requirements. See Appendix A for the development
of additions to this document.
Rationale—This document is no longer needed. An
alternative document is SAE J2558.