PUR / TPU — Polyurethane
Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) combine rubber-like elasticity with the processability of thermoplastics. Very high abrasion resistance, outstanding recovery and a small bending radius make PUR the first choice for dynamic pneumatics, robotics, drag chains and food-contact applications.
Polyester vs. Polyether — the two TPU families
Thermoplastic polyurethanes fall into two main families that differ significantly in chemistry and therefore in their properties. The choice determines service life and suitability for the application.
Mechanically strong
Highest abrasion & tensile strength, excellent damping. Preferred for mechanically demanding applications, conveyor belts, drive belts. Example: Elastollan® C 98 A 10.
Hydrolysis-resistant & cold-flexible
Resistant to water, microorganisms and low temperatures. First choice for food contact, humid environments and refrigeration. Examples: Elastollan® 1154 / 1198.
Elastollan® Types Compared
Three raw material types from the BASF Elastollan® family that we use for our PUR hoses. Values taken from the original datasheets (BASF Polyurethanes GmbH).
| Property | 1154 D 10 FC | 1198 A 10 FC | C 98 A 10 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Polyether | Polyether | Polyester |
| Hardness | Shore D 53 | Shore D 52 | Shore D 52 |
| Density | 1,17 g/cm³ | 1,17 g/cm³ | 1,22 g/cm³ |
| Tensile strength | 50 MPa | 50 MPa | 50 MPa |
| Elongation at break | 450 % | 420 % | 550 % |
| Tear strength | 150 kN/m | 130 kN/m | 130 kN/m |
| Abrasion loss | 30 mm³ | 25 mm³ | 30 mm³ |
| Notched impact (−30 °C) | 18 kJ/m² | 190 kJ/m² | 25 kJ/m² |
| Burning behaviour | HB | HB | HB |
| Food contact | suitable | suitable | — |
Type Profiles
Elastollan® 1154 D 10 FC — polyether, harder, food-grade
Harder polyether TPU with general suitability for food contact. Outstanding tear strength (150 kN/m) and very good hydrolysis resistance, even after 42 days in 80 °C water. Typical for compressed-air lines with elevated pressure requirements in hygiene-sensitive areas.
Elastollan® 1198 A 10 FC — premium food-grade PUR
This grade combines the lowest abrasion in the comparison (25 mm³) with food suitability. Exceptional notched impact strength (190 kJ/m² at −30 °C) — first choice for PUR-L hoses in beverage filling, dairy technology and the pharmaceutical sector.
Elastollan® C 98 A 10 000 — polyester, mechanically optimized
Polyester TPU with the highest elongation at break in the comparison (550 %) and excellent damping and recovery. Preferred material for pneumatic hoses in dry machine environments, welding applications and wherever maximum mechanical robustness counts.
Typical Applications
Robotics & drag chain
High flex cycle counts, small bending radii and permanent motion — PUR survives millions of cycles without noticeable fatigue. Polyether types preferred.
Food & beverage industry (PUR-L)
PUR-L with Elastollan® 1198 or 1154 is hydrolysis-resistant (ideal for frequent CIP cleaning with hot water/steam) and resistant to microorganisms.
Pneumatics & control engineering
Classic pneumatic hoses made of polyester PUR (type C 98 A) or polyether PUR. Excellent kink resistance, small bend radius — also in DUO/TRIO/QUADRO bundling.
Which PUR type fits your application?
Polyester or polyether, standard or food-grade, with or without flame retardancy — we recommend the right material for your specification.
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