KRAIBURG TPE has announced that a unique new shoe lacing system developed by Shin Kyung (Korea) is manufactured using its rotary dial, over moulded with THERMOLAST K compound.
Shin Kyung’s patented FREELOCK wire closure system has an innovative mechanism for tightening, securing and loosening laces by means of multiple wires contracted or released as needed by a simple twist of a rotary dial.
The dial of the FREELOCK system is based on a two-component design comprising a polycarbonate base over moulded with THERMOLAST K from KRAIBURG TPE.
KRAIBURG TPE says the thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) compound was selected for its ability to combine excellent processing characteristics with superior tensile strength and aesthetics and the TPE offers excellent surface quality along with a soft-touch feel while retaining its firm grip.

2018 KRAIBURG TPE
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KRAIBURG TPE also says key properties to be met included easy colourability in line with brand footwear shades, high flowability for short cycle times and uncompromising long-term adhesion to the polycarbonate to withstand the frequent turning and tension applied to the rotary dial across the lifetime of the shoe.
The FREELOCK system is also suited to other applications, such as gloves, bags and medical pouches.