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
Order TPU filament directly
What are the advantages and disadvantages of TPU filament?
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: Order TPU semi-flexible filament directly
