The basics of 3D printing: TPU Filament

What is TPU Filament?

TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane, is a type of flexible filament that is popular in 3D printing. It has unique properties that distinguish it from other flexible materials, such as high abrasion resistance, low-temperature flexibility and superior toughness.

Features of TPU Filament

TPU filament has a number of distinctive properties. It is highly flexible and stretchable, which makes it perfect for applications that require movement and flexibility. In addition, it has high abrasion resistance, meaning it can withstand constant wear without breaking or deteriorating.

Applications of TPU Filament

TPU filament can be used for a wide range of applications, from prototypes to finished products. It is ideal for printing parts that need to withstand shock and vibration, such as protective covers, gears, belts and more.

Why choose TPU Filament?

TPU filament is a flexible and elastic filament often used for 3D printing soft and flexible objects, such as phone cases, shoe soles, seals, and more. Here are general print settings for TPU filament:

1. Print temperature: The recommended print temperature for TPU is usually between 210°C and 230°C. Usually start with a temperature around 220°C and adjust based on results. Some TPU filaments may require higher temperatures.
2. Print bed temperature: Using a heated print bed is optional when 3D printing with TPU, but it can help with adhesion. A bed temperature of 40°C to 60°C is usually sufficient.
3. Print speed: The optimum print speed for TPU is usually between 20 and 40 mm/s. Slower print speeds help reduce distortion and problems with the filament.
4. Layer thickness: A layer thickness of 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm is commonly used for TPU prints. You can adjust the layer thickness based on your desired resolution and print speed.
5. Fill pattern: A rectangular or honeycomb fill pattern with 20% to 30% fill usually works well for TPU prints. Adjust the fill based on the strength requirements of your print.
6. Cooling: Reduce the cooling rate to the minimum, usually 10% or less. Too much cooling can cause problems when 3D printing flexible materials such as TPU.
7. Retraction: Use retraction settings to avoid stringing. A retraction distance of 1 to 2 mm and a speed of 10 to 30 mm/s may be appropriate for TPU.
8. Adhesion: TPU usually has good adhesion to a heated print bed with BuildTak, PEI surface or a layer of print bed adhesive.
9. Printer settings: Adjust settings to your specific 3D printer model and software.
10. Pay attention to filament tension: TPU filament can be sensitive to knots and tension in the filament spool. Make sure the filament drains smoothly to avoid printing problems.

If you are working with TPU for the first time, it is advisable to make small test prints to find the optimal settings for your printer and filament. TPU often requires some adjustment and experimentation to achieve the best results, especially due to its flexible nature.

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