Viprene® TPV Optimized with Specific Grip and Softness for Guitar Knobs

ROMULUS, Mich. - Jan. 13, 2015 - PRLog -- Knobeez was looking for a rubber alternative with a soft, easy grip for guitar and bass knobs. “We needed a super “grippy” moldable material”, says Tom Washburn of Knobeez.  Manufactured near APS Elastomers’ headquarters in Metro Detroit, Knobeez contacted Stephane Morin to find the optimal material to produce the guitar knobs that would provide the proper feel and fit over potentiometer shafts. Potentiometers are a three-terminal resistor with an adjustable center connection, widely used for volume control in audio equipment. Knobeez are press on guitar knobs designed for comfort and ease of use for all types of electric stringed instruments; ideal for guitarists who do volume swell.

“Viprene® thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) exhibit many properties similar to rubber such as flexibility over a wide temperature range and resistance to degradation from water, oil and grease”, says Stephane Morin, co-owner of APS Elastomers.  It can also be processed using conventional injection molding and extrusion equipment.  Available in Shore hardness range of 35A-50D, Viprene® can be optimized with specific softness and grip needed in industrial, construction, appliance, and electronic applications. Lower processing costs as well as adhesion to a broad range of substrates make it an ideal substitute of more costly material needed in soft touch parts such as overmolded grips for power tools, appliance, and utensil handles.

In addition to its rubber-like properties, Viprene® TPVs are fatigue resistant, dimensionally stable and offer very low compression set, heat aging stability, low temperature flexibility and excellent U.V. and ozone stability. “Good colorability allows Knobeez to produce their knobs in a variety of bold colors”, adds Morin.

APS Elastomers is committed to providing in-depth and high level customer and technical service, problem-solving, product development and support to designers, OEMs and processors; building relationships based on knowledge, trust and experience.  APS Elastomers also provides beside-the-press consulting, full laboratory services, and expedited shipment.

For more information on TPVs TPEs, TPUs, as well as standard and custom grades, contact: APS Elastomers at info@apstpe.com

For more information on Knobeez visit their website:  http://www.knobeez.com/