Materials

All You Need to Know About TPU for 3D Printing

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is an elastomer (synthetic plastic) that is characterized by its high flexibility and resistance during further processing and combines the properties of thermoplastics and elastomers. It can withstand much higher compressive and tensile forces th

tpu
3Dnatives

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is an elastomer (synthetic plastic) that is characterized by its high flexibility and resistance during further processing and combines the properties of thermoplastics and elastomers. It can withstand much higher compressive and tensile forces than other common materials such as PLA and ABS. The reason for the variation in its softness and hardness is due to its chemical composition: Depending on the proportion of hard and soft segments, the hardness and flexibility of the material also changes. A lower filling quantity can also result in a more flexible 3D-printed part. This affects the transparency of the final parts, the softness to the touch or the adhesion of the parts. TPU is a very versatile polymer that imparts a very multi-layered set of properties to parts. TPU also offers greater resistance to all greases and oils. But what to consider when using TPU?

Production and Characteristics

Although we usually talk about TPU filaments, we can also find them in powder or resin form. In terms of the properties of these polymers, they have many benefits, including their high impact-, wear-, abrasion- and cut-resistance. They also have a relatively high layer cohesion, which results in excellent mechanical homogeneity of the manufactured parts and makes them isotropic.

Due to its flexibility, TPU is often used for the production of cell phone cases

However, there are certain limitations to this type of material that must be considered. TPU does not adapt well to hot environments. This factor is noticeable because they cannot withstand high temperatures despite their large working range. In addition, print settings should vary depending on the technology and 3D machine used. Compared to TPE, another flexible filament, TPU is easier to print and retains its elastic properties better at lower temperatures. TPU material offers better resistance to abrasion, oil and grease. Unlike stiffer thermoplastics, TPU filament has properties such as flexibility and conformability and has no problems with deformation and delamination during the 3D printing process.