TPU filament

What is TPU filament?

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) filament is a flexible, rubber-like material widely used in 3D printing. It belongs to the category of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and combines the advantages of plastic and rubber. TPU is known for its exceptional flexibility, abrasion resistance, and elasticity, making it a popular choice for a variety of applications. Whether for technical prototypes, flexible cases, or even wear parts – TPU enables printing objects with high mechanical durability and elasticity.

Top features of TPU filament

When purchasing TPU filament, there are several important features to consider to ensure the material is suitable for your specific requirements:

1. Flexibility and elasticity
   TPU is known for its ability to bend and stretch without breaking. This flexibility allows printing durable and flexible parts that can restore their shape after deformation.

2. Hardness (Shore hardness)
   TPU is available in various hardness levels, ranging from soft and rubber-like (e.g., 85A) to harder variants (such as 98A). Depending on the application, a higher or lower hardness may be preferred.

3. Abrasion resistance
   One of the outstanding properties of TPU is its resistance to wear and abrasion, making it ideal for parts exposed to friction or mechanical stress.

4. Weather resistance
   TPU is resistant to both UV rays and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor use or in damp environments.

5. Chemical resistance
   TPU filament resists many chemicals such as oils and fats, making it a good choice for industrial applications.

6. Good adhesion between layers
   TPU shows excellent layer adhesion, which is especially important when producing objects with high structural integrity.

7. Printing temperature and speed
   TPU is usually printed at temperatures between 210°C and 240°C. Due to its elasticity, TPU must be printed slower than conventional filaments to avoid stringing or clogging.

Common applications of TPU filament

1. Smartphone protective cases
   The flexibility and durability of TPU make it ideal for shockproof protective cases for mobile devices.

2. Shoes
   TPU is often used for making soles and other flexible shoe components.

3. Industrial seals
   Thanks to its chemical and mechanical resistance, TPU is ideal for seals and damping elements in industry.

4. Sports equipment
   TPU is also used in the manufacture of flexible, shock-absorbing sports equipment, such as protective pads or balls.

5. Prototypes
   For technical prototypes that need to be elastic and durable, TPU is an excellent material.

Suitable accessories for TPU prints

When working with TPU, there are some products that can improve or complement the printing experience:

1. Flexible build plates
   A flexible build plate makes removing TPU prints easier, as the material often sticks to the print surface.

2. Filament drying cabinet
   TPU is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. A filament drying cabinet helps reduce moisture and improve print quality.

3. Special nozzles
   To facilitate printing flexible filaments like TPU, special nozzles with a larger diameter can be used.

4. Print bed adhesive
   Since TPU requires good adhesion to the print bed, using a glue stick or adhesive spray can be helpful to prevent detachment during printing.

5. Filament guide tubes
   Bowden systems can cause problems with flexible materials. A direct drive or special filament tubes help prevent tangling.

FAQs about TPU filament

1. Is TPU filament difficult to print?
   TPU can be somewhat more challenging than conventional filaments like PLA, especially due to its flexibility. Slow print speeds and the right temperature settings help avoid printing issues.

2. Do I need a special printer for TPU?
   Most FDM printers can process TPU, but a direct-drive extruder is often better suited to handle the material's flexibility.

3. Can TPU be used for waterproof objects?
   Yes, TPU is water-resistant and can be used for applications exposed to moisture or water.

4. How should I best store TPU filament?
   TPU should be stored dry and airtight to prevent moisture absorption, which could affect print quality.

5. What is the ideal print bed temperature for TPU?
   A print bed temperature between 40°C and 60°C is usually ideal to ensure good adhesion.

Conclusion

TPU filament is an extremely versatile material used in many areas of 3D printing. Thanks to its flexibility, durability, and longevity, it is suitable for a wide range of applications, from protective cases to industrial seals. With the right printing settings and accessories, even beginners can achieve high-quality results with TPU.