Medalist® Ultra-Soft Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) for Medical Devices - Product Selector Guide

Ultra-soft thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) gel compounds are used in medical devices to provide padding or cushioning, or an tight seal.  Teknor Apex presents the next generation of ultra-soft TPE gels, addressing two of the major limitations faced by current TPE gel materials. First, the Medalist MD-16100 series exhibits lower tack, or less surface friction than conventional TPE gels, resulting in better haptics. The second series, called Medalist MD-10100, can be overmolded onto polypropylene (PP), unlike conventional TPE gels. Overmolding a TPE gel onto a stiff substrate like PP introduces part design flexibility while improving functionality like providing a cushion or seal.

Download the Medalist TPE Product Selector Guide for these materials, and obtain technical data; including physical and mechanical properties.

Why use Medalist Ultra-Soft Gel TPEs?

  • Provide padding and cushioning
  • Safe for skin contact
  • Cost effective replacement for silicone
  • Excellent processability and de-molds with ease
  • Clear and translucent grades available, ideal for
  • Custom colors

Regulatory Compliance

  • Made with FDA food grade compliant ingredients
  • Biocompatible, ISO 10993-5 compliant
  • REACH SVHC compliant
  • Free of DEHP, phthalates, BPA, and latex
  • Standard grades are ADM-free

Low Tack Ultra-Soft Gels: Medalist MD-16100 Series

The Medalist MD-16100 series of TPE gels are specifically formulated for improved haptics and a smoother surface feel. Available from 20 to 65 Shore OO, these low-tack gels can be used for soft padding, support, or cushioning. Applications include orthopedic devices, prosthetic liners, and even diabetes therapy when used in insoles, heel cushions, and toe spacers.

TPE Gels for Polypropylene Overmolding: Medalist MD-10100 Series

Available from 8 to 18 Shore A, the Medalist MD-10100 series of TPEs are designed for overmolding and exhibit excellent adhesion to polypropylene. These TPE gels are used in respiratory masks to provide an air-tight, cushioning seal against the face. Other applications include orthopedic devices, grips for handles or hand-held devices.

For more information about other Medalist TPEs for medical applications, including injection molded parts, extruded tubing and film, go to our Medalist product page.

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