Thermoplastic elastomers possess the physical and mechanical properties of vulcanized rubber and the processing characteristics of soft plastics. Due to the elimination of the need for heat curing like rubber, products can be easily manufactured using simple plastic processing machinery. This feature has shortened the production process in the rubber industry by 25%, saved energy consumption by 25% to 40%, and increased efficiency by 10 to 20 times, making it a material and technological revolution in the rubber industry.

The primary methods for manufacturing and processing thermoplastic elastomers are extrusion and injection molding, with molding being less commonly used. Injection molding for the production of thermoplastic elastomers is both quick and cost-effective. The injection molding methods and equipment used for general thermoplastic plastics are also suitable for thermoplastic elastomers.

Thermoplastic elastomers can be processed through blow molding, thermoforming, and hot welding. These methods are not applicable to thermosetting rubber products.

　　Thermoplastic elastomers exhibit the following characteristics in processing applications:

1. The processing and shaping can be carried out using standard thermoplastic plastic processing equipment and techniques, such as extrusion, injection, blow molding, etc.

2. No vulcanization required; can produce rubber products, reducing the vulcanization process, saving investment, low energy consumption, simple technology, shortened processing cycle, increased production efficiency, and lower processing costs.

3. The scrap from edges can be recycled for use, saving resources and also beneficial for environmental protection.

4. Due to the product's tendency to soften at high temperatures, there are certain limitations on the operating temperature of the products manufactured.