The portable speaker market has become competitive among manufacturers as consumers demand cutting-edge, functional audio devices with seamless, eye-catching design. To meet this demand, designers and manufacturers in the audio industry are working feverishly to release portable speakers with sleek, high-tech flair.

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a versatile material that possesses all the essential properties required for manufacturing portable speakers. TPE is widely used in parts like casings, grips, seals, straps, and more - delivering aesthetic appeal, robust durability and exceptional user experience.

KRAIBURG TPE’s THERMOLAST® R RC/AD1/AP series is renowned for its outstanding mechanical properties and commitment to sustainability. With rising consumer demand for eco-friendly solutions, this TPE series fulfills both style and environmental concerns.

Appealing Aesthetics and Soft Touch Feel 
The use of THERMOLAST® R RC/AD1/AP series in the manufacturing of portable speakers offers many material advantages. Firstly, this TPE series can be effectively combined with polar thermoplastics like ABS, PC, and PC/ABS through injection molding, allowing for haptic contrast and improved casing and grip adhesion in the speaker application.

The flexibility of TPEs also enhances user experience by providing a range of tactile sensations. From grippy to silky feel, a smooth, non-sticky surface is maintained, adding to the overall sleek and aesthetic appeal of the portable speaker.
 
Moreover, TPEs' pliability can be leveraged to optimize speaker performance by reducing housing vibrations to enhance audio quality. The overmolding process with TPEs not only provides a cost-efficient solution for manufacturers but also adds impact protection to the speaker.

THERMOLAST® R RC/AD1/AP series contributes to environmental sustainability, with eco-friendly manufacturing practices.

Safety is paramount in products that come into contact with users, and the RC/AD1/AP series meets this criterion by undergoing testing for UL 94HB, ISO10993-5 (Cytotoxicity), and ISO10993-23 (Skin Irritation), ensuring both outstanding performance and user safety. The series is also compliant with RoHS and REACH SVHC requirements, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance.

The THERMOLAST® R RC/AD1/AP series offers a versatile and sustainable solution that enhances both the functionality and safety of portable speakers while maintaining a premium aesthetic.

Sustainability successes of our TPEs
Besides portable speaker applications, KRAIBURG TPE’s recent sustainability innovations include a series of material solutions specially developed for automotive, consumer, consumer electronics, wearables and industry applications. Comprising up to 48% post-consumer recycled (PCR) and 50% post-industrial recycled (PIR) content, the material complies with multiple global standards such as FDA raw material compliance, RoHS and REACH SVHC requirements. KRAIBURG TPE also provides customers with product carbon footprint values.

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.