TPU cable jacketing
See also: Lighting, Water and Telecommunications · Mobility · Industrial Manufacturing and Chemicals
What it is
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) jacketing is the application of thermoplastic polyurethane as the outer layer of cables — data cables, power cables, charging cables, industrial cables, medical cables. TPU is extruded over the internal conductors (copper, optical fiber) forming the flexible and resistant jacket that mechanically, electrically and environmentally protects the cable.
TPU offers a unique combination of properties for jacketing:
- High flexibility even at low temperatures (down to −40°C for specific grades)
- Abrasion resistance far superior to PVC or polyolefins
- Resistance to oils, solvents and industrial chemicals
- Durability in repetitive flexing (millions of cycles)
- Premium appearance and feel
Typical applications include high-flexibility cables for headphones and headsets (premium wired and Bluetooth), USB-C and Lightning charging cables, medical equipment cables (requiring high flexibility and sterilization resistance), industrial cables in aggressive environments, specific automotive cables.
Why it matters
For premium portable electronics manufacturers (Apple, Samsung, Sony, Bose), the cable is an integral part of the product experience. A charging cable that kinks, breaks, or looks cheap impacts the brand's entire perception. TPU offers superior tactile and visual quality.
For the automotive industry (EV charging cables, internal vehicle cables), TPU is chosen where PVC or XLPE do not deliver the required flexibility or resistance. EV growth strongly pulls demand for high-performance TPU cables.
For medical cables (endoscopy, monitoring, surgical robotic equipment), TPU is standard due to biocompatibility, sterilizability and required flexibility.
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