Polyurethane is generally more wear- and fracture-resistant than rubber, but TPU and CPU are different material systems.
CPU: cast polyurethane
CPU is a cast, thermosetting polyurethane elastomer made by reacting oligomeric polyols, polyisocyanates and chain extenders. The liquid system is poured into a mould and cured. It has a broad hardness range, strong wear resistance, good temperature stability and high strength, making it suitable for large and medium products such as bumper plates. It is not readily remelted or recycled like a thermoplastic.
TPU: thermoplastic polyurethane
TPU can be softened with heat and formed by injection, extrusion or blow moulding. Production is simpler and scrap can be recycled, but its strength and hardness range differ from cast CPU. TPU has high elasticity, wear resistance, oil resistance and low-temperature performance.
The right choice depends on product size, hardness, processing method, wear requirements and whether recyclability is a priority.