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All about TPU filaments

3D Printing Help Centre

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

In the 123-3D help centre, we answer all your questions about 3D software and printer settings, problems you may experience during or after 3D printing and other 3D-related topics.

What is TPU filament?

TPU filament is a rubbery and semi-flexible filament type that is widely used in the industrial sector. It is recyclable, durable and available in many different colours.  

Main properties about TPU filament:

  • Matte material
  • Available in various colours
  • Resistant to oil, grease and chemicals
  • Flexible and resilient
  • Heat resistant
  • Wear-resistant
TPU filament

Order TPU filament directly
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is characterized by its high elasticity and perfect degree of bending. It has a print temperature between 220°C and 250°C and gives the best results at a low print speed of about 20 to 30mm/s.

TPU is a soft and flexible filament that is easier to print than flexible TPE filament. To prevent the material from bending or being pushed in the wrong direction during 3D printing, you should use a direct drive extruder that supports the TPU filament as much as possible. In addition, TPU has excellent layer adhesion and hardly deforms during the cooling process.

TPU is not soluble and resistant to oil, grease and chemicals, making the application possibilities endless. This filament is also suitable for use at both low and high temperatures. Ideal for printing wear-resistant parts such as fuel hoses, for example. In addition, this material (just like TPE) is also suitable for printing smartphone cases, shoe soles and non-slip objects.
 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of TPU filament?

Advantages TPU filament Disadvantages TPU filament
Recyclable Low print speed
High elasticity and tensile strength Less suitable for Bowden extruders
Excellent wear resistance Not suitable for printing 'bridges' (overhangs)
Resistant to oil, grease and chemicals High printing temperature
Heated bed is not required thanks to excellent layer adhesion

 

Tips for printing with TPU 3D filament:

  • Always store TPU in a dry place and preferably in a sealed bag with moisture absorbers or silica gel to prevent holes in your 3D prints.  
  • The hardness of the TPU material is indicated on a shore scale. A higher value indicates that the material is harder / less flexible.  
  • Are you going to print without a heated bed? Use Painter's tape or adhesive spray for good first coat adhesion. Without good adhesion to the print bed, the risk of tearing is very high when the object is bent or stretched.
  • The extruder should support the TPU filament as much as possible, so that the material is not bent or pushed in the wrong direction.  
  • For printing with TPU filament, it is best to use a direct drive extruder. Do you want to print with a Bowden extruder? Then make sure that the filament does not get stuck against the wall of the Bowden tube.
  • Retraction of the filament should be disabled or limited to a very small distance. Check which printer settings are needed before you start printing with flexible filament.
  • Please take into account a slightly longer printing time. TPU can only be printed at a lower speed.

TPU filament with different properties: 

You can easily order TPU filament with diameters of 1.75mm and 2.85mm online at 123-3D.co.uk!

Order TPU semi-flexible filament directly
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