Anyone who’s spent long hours on a job site in steel-toed boots knows how painful it can be when they’re not comfortable.
If you’re a manufacturer of safety boots, you need to walk a very fine line between making footwear that is tough but also flexible and comfortable to wear. The secret behind a well-made and snug non-slip sole is a carefully engineered flexible PVC injection compound.
The secret to getting the formula just right is to ensure that there is the right amount of plasticiser content in the PVC. Getting this crucial aspect wrong can lead to premature cracking, hardening, slipperiness, or an inflexible fit that hurts.
Why Plasticiser Type and Levels Matter
In PVC formulations, both the type and level of plasticiser play a critical role in achieving the desired flexibility, durability, and performance. While plasticiser levels influence the softness and pliability of the material, it is the compatibility of the plasticiser with the PVC compound that determines long-term stability.
Using an incompatible or unsuitable plasticiser can lead to migration over time, where the additive gradually leaches out, leaving the product brittle and prone to failure. For demanding applications like safety footwear, selecting the right plasticiser is just as important as calculating the correct dosage.
Performance in Harsh Environments
PVC compounds that have been formulated for safety footwear need to perform under extreme conditions. They need to be capable of withstanding chemical spills, oils, heat, sharp impacts, and abrasive surfaces.
At IPC, we can tweak our PVC formulations to improve specific properties, such as slip resistance or UV stability.
Thanks to the versatility of plasticised PVC, it’s possible for us to create compounds that can resist deformation, warping, and cracking even in the most unforgiving environments.
Lightweight and Comfortable
Workers in dangerous industrial jobs can’t afford to be distracted by uncomfortable shoes. Shoes need to be lightweight and snug enough that they go unnoticed by the wearer all day. Modern compounds can include blowing agents to reduce density, making the boots lighter without compromising the strength.
For expert advice on PVC plasticiser levels and custom compounds tailored to your footwear range, contact IPC and get the right formulation for your needs.
