What is a TPU phone case?

tpu phone case

Table of Contents

Introduction

‘TPU mobile phone case’, you may often hear this word. Whether you are buying a mobile phone or looking for a mobile phone case manufacturer, you can’t do without this word.
In this article, casefty will explain what a TPU mobile phone case is from the perspective of a mobile phone case manufacturer.

What is a TPU Material Phone Case?

TPU phone cases are made from a material called thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), a type of elastic body that can be plasticized by heating and dissolved by solvents. TPU is widely used in industries such as defense, medical, and food due to its robust properties.

tpu phone case

Characteristics of TPU Material:

  • High strength
  • High toughness
  • Wear-resistant
  • Oil-resistant
  • Good processing performance
tpu material

Is TPU a good material for phone cases?

Yes, TPU is a mainstream material for phone cases. Many well-known brands, such as Casetify, use TPU to make most of their phone cases, including the transparent ones commonly seen. TPU’s thermoplastic nature allows it to be molded into various products through injection molding, which is the predominant technique for manufacturing plastic phone cases today.

Why choose TPU for phone cases?

Transparency: TPU can be made completely transparent, allowing for various impressive visual effects. The degree of transparency can also be adjusted in combination with IMD technology.

Compatibility with Injection Molding: TPU can be molded into any product, including phone cases, computer casings, and game controller shells.

Compatibility with In-Mold Decoration: Phone cases made from TPU can accommodate advanced decorative techniques for complex effects.

Environmental Resistance: TPU maintains its performance in both high and low temperature environments, making it suitable for products exposed to harsh conditions.

Affordability: TPU is one of the more common and economical materials for phone cases, ideal for businesses starting out. Transparent cases, in particular, are fundamental to custom case designs, allowing for either personal or professional printing.

Adjustable Softness and Hardness: The texture of TPU can be adjusted by changing the ratios of the raw materials used.

plastic mobile phone case

Is the TPU phone case soft or hard?

The hardness of TPU phone cases falls between that of PC (polycarbonate) and silicone cases, with PC being the hardest and silicone the softest. TPU cases are harder than silicone but softer than PC cases. This softness or hardness can be customized to your preferences.

TPU vs. Silicone Phone Cases:

  • Customization Options: TPU cases offer more customization possibilities, including vibrant colors and custom designs.
  • Durability and Protection: TPU cases provide better shock absorption and are more durable than silicone cases.
  • Feel and Texture: If a softer feel is preferred, silicone might be the better choice. For better protection, TPU is recommended.

Yellowing Issue:

Yes, like PC cases, standard TPU phone cases can yellow over time. However, technologies to prevent yellowing are available, though they may cost more.

Conclusion:

TPU is an excellent material for phone cases, particularly suitable for those starting a custom phone case business on a budget. Most designer cases are made from TPU because of its versatility and effectiveness.

casefty’s solution

Our offering combines materials for optimal benefits: the back is made from PC for increased strength and magnetic ring compatibility, the sides from TPU for ease of installation, and the corners from TPU air cushions or TPE shock-absorbing strips for enhanced protection.

Casefty—your high-end, custom phone case manufacturer. High quality at factory prices to support your business. Note: Not all TPU cases are suitable for UV printing; contact your manufacturer for specific capabilities.

FAQs

TPU vs. PC Phone Cases

  • PC (polycarbonate) phone cases are another mainstream type of hard phone case on the market, known for their higher mechanical strength compared to TPU. However, PC’s hardness can make it inconvenient to install and remove the case. TPU phone cases, while retaining sufficient strength, offer better flexibility and toughness.

Can TPU Phone Cases Protect Phones?

  • Yes, TPU phone cases provide good protection. If you’re concerned about the toughness of TPU, you can opt for cases with special textures on the edges to enhance shock absorption. If more protection is needed, corners can be equipped with TPU airbags to further enhance the case’s protective capabilities.

How to Clean TPU Phone Cases?

  • Cleaning TPU phone cases is very simple; just use ordinary water and soap.

How to Print Designs on TPU Phone Cases?

  • With the right material mix, ordinary UV printers can be used to print designs on TPU phone cases. The specific printing capabilities depend on the material formulation provided by the supplier, so it’s best to contact the manufacturer for details before customization.

What Does 'Soft TPU Case' Mean?

  • A ‘soft TPU case’ refers to a version of the TPU phone case that is made softer by adjusting the mixture ratio of the TPU material. This adjustment makes the case feel softer to the touch, catering to users who prefer a softer feel.
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