Just four years ago, BASF introduced the first foaming TPU. This material is called Infinergy and is foamed by innovative procedures based on BASF's Elastollan TPU. Infinergy closed cell pellets have a lower volume. Weight, density is 110 kg per cubic meter. After processing by standard molding machine, the weight of the molded part is 200 to 320 kg/m3, which is between the lighter EPS or EPP and the heavier elastic PUR foam. Within 24 hours, its water absorption is less than 2%, and the elongation at break is between 100-150%, depending on the density, and a good combination of wear resistance and chemical resistance.
Up to now, Ergon is a company that aims to provide 'perfect ergonomics' design and engineering for cyclists. Through the cooperation between BASF and Ergon, Germany, E-TPU Infinergy materials are in the bicycle seat revolution. Play an important role.
In fact, the partners pointed out that bicycle seat technology has not changed significantly since the 1960s, and most models follow a standardized principle: rails, casings, fillings, skins. The disadvantage is that the seat shell, as the lower structure of the seat pad, must have sufficient rigidity to provide sufficient support, but at the same time it will lose some comfort.
Ergon's R&D team is particularly focused on this aspect, in their view, their team led the development of a revolutionary 'TwinShell' with an ergonomic core. In a sandwich structure, the two shells are mutually Independent, a high-performance elastomeric shock absorber (made of BASF Infinergy material) for floating devices. The lower support shell acts as a load bearing, while the upper soft shell supports the seat's filling material.
This design principle adds both comfort and a new ergonomic form of riding. Due to the isolation of the seat shell from the support housing, the seat can be deformed in all directions with natural riding pedaling. And slight shifting. The advantages are: Systematic optimization of pressure distribution, efficient ergonomics for riding, excellent vibration damping and active back protection.
At the same time, Ergon's Ergon core material is also made of Infinergy. Due to the thousands of lightweight and highly elastic foam particles, this innovative material sets new standards in shock absorption and suspension. According to reports, high elasticity optimization Pressure damping in the seat area. Once the pressure pulse is over, the foam will return to its original shape. Even under continuous load, the material retains this characteristic. Therefore, the Ergon core ensures direct damping response and maximum flexibility, as well as Maximum durability under the lowest material weight. This E-TPU foam has been successfully used by leading manufacturers in the field of safety and running shoes.
Speaking of ST Core Ultra, which will be commercially available in the US and Europe in February 2018, Ergon founder and CEO Frank Arnold pointed out: 'The idea of using TwinShell technology and ergonomic core design principles has existed for a while. Time, but we have never been able to find the right materials to implement this project in the market. Now, BASF's Infinergy has exceeded our expectations. I absolutely believe that Ergon's ST Core Ultra will cause a stir in the bicycle industry.