TPU filaments
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TPU filament: how to choose hardness and settings
In brief: TPU is selected by Shore hardness and whether the printer can feed flexible material stably. TPU95 is the universal starter, TPU90 is softer and more demanding, and TPU95-HF is a better choice when you want higher flow and faster printing. Wet TPU causes stringing and a rough surface, so a dry box is often a must, not an accessory.
| TPU | When to choose it | Handy link |
|---|---|---|
| TPU95 | Universal flexible parts, protectors, feet, seals. | PolyFlex TPU95 |
| TPU90 | A softer part when elasticity is more important than speed. | PolyFlex TPU90 |
| TPU95-HF | Faster printing and better flow with a suitable printer. | PolyFlex TPU95-HF |
For stable TPU printing, start with a lower speed, direct extruder when possible, dry filament and minimal retractions. Look filament dryers, if the spool was left open.
TPU filament for flexible, durable and shock-absorbing details
TPU is the right material when the part needs to flex, absorb impact or work as a protector, seal, foot, handle, case or elastic functional part.
The most important parameters are Shore hardness, print speed, direct or Bowden extruder and filament condition. Wet TPU degrades quality quickly, so dry box and dry storage often solve real problems.
- TPU 95A - universal choice for most desktop FDM printers.
- Softer TPU - wants direct extruder, lower speed and more settings.
- Dry material - less stringing, smoother surface and more reliable feeding.
Quick links: filament drying | PETG | all filaments | TPU Guide
Frequently asked questions
Can any 3D printer print TPU?
Many printers can, but a direct extruder, lower speed and well-adjusted feed give a more reliable result.
What is TPU used for?
For flexible parts, protectors, gaskets, feet, shock absorbers, covers and functional elements that do not need to be rigid.
TPU filament: flexibility, Shore A and speed
TPU is the right choice for flexible parts, but different TPU materials do not print equally. Look at Shore A hardness, recommended speed, feed through the extruder, and whether the part needs to be soft, resilient, or just slightly springy.
- For an easier and faster TPU workflow see PolyFlex TPU95-HF.
- If the part doesn't have to be flexible, it is often more appropriate PETG.
- TPU absorbs moisture, so combine the material with dryer or dry box.
Related Pages: all filaments | TPU settings | TPU Shore A Guide
TPU filaments for 3D printing
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is one of the most popular flexible filaments for 3D printing, offering an excellent balance between elasticity, strength and wear resistance. Due to its unique properties, TPU is widely used in both hobby projects and industrial production, the automotive sector, medicine and consumer products.
In this article we will take a look the advantages, disadvantages, differences between different types of TPU, as well as 3D printing best practices with this material.
What is TPU and why choose it for 3D printing?
TPU is kind of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), which combines the flexibility of rubber with the durability of plastic. This makes it perfect for parts that must bend, stretch and compress without breaking.
Main advantages of TPU:
✔ Flexibility and stretchability – Parts can be bent and stretched without losing their shape.
✔ Endurance – TPU is resistant to impact, wear and deformation.
✔ Good adhesion to surfaces – Suitable for rubber grips, protectors and shock absorbers.
✔ Chemical and UV resistance – TPU is resistant to oils, grease and most chemicals.
Main disadvantages of TPU:
❌ Slower print – Compared to rigid materials such as PLA and ABS, TPU requires a lower speed to precise detail.
❌ Special requirements for the printer – Best results are obtained with direct extruder, as Bowden systems can cause problems when feeding the soft filament.
❌ Difficult setup – Printing with TPU may require more experimentation and final adjustments, especially with different brands and hardnesses.
Differences between TPU types
TPU filaments differ in hardness (Shore A), elasticity and print speed.
Shore A hardness and flexibility
- TPU 85A-90A – The softest and stretchiest TPU used for shoe soles, prostheses, wearable accessories. They demand slower printing and direct extruder.
- TPU 95A – The most versatile option, suitable for protective cases, automotive seals, handles and grips. Easier to print, can also be used on Bowden printers (at low speed).
- TPU 98A-100A – Harder TPU with limited flexibility, but with easier printing and higher extrusion speed. Often used for industrial applications and machine parts.
Standard TPU vs. TPU for high speed printing
Some manufacturers offer high flow (HF – High Flow) TPU, which are designed for faster printing (50-100 mm/s), without compromising on quality. They are especially useful for mass production of flexible parts.
What can you print with TPU?
✅ Rubber protectors and cases – TPU provides shock absorbers properties that make it ideal for phone, laptop and camera cases.
✅ Gaskets and gaskets - Thanks to his elasticity and oil resistance, TPU is used in automotive industry and engineering.
✅ Handles and grips – The material is there good hand grip, making it ideal for sports equipment, tools and bicycle handles.
✅ Shock absorbers and vibration isolators – TPU is resistant to pressure and is often used for rubber feet, shock absorbers and springs.
✅ Tires for RC cars and drones – Thanks to good adhesion and wear resistance, TPU is used for tires, wheels and other moving parts.
Best settings for 3D printing with TPU
✅ Nozzle temperature: 210-230°C
✅ Bed temperature: 30-60°C
✅ Print speed:
- Soft TPU (85A-90A) – 20-40 mm/s
- Medium hard TPU (95A) – 30-60 mm/s
-
Hard TPU (98A+) – 50-100 mm/s
✅ Retraction: Minimal (1-3mm for direct extruder, 4-6mm for Bowden)
✅ Cooling: Included on 50-100% after the first layers
✅ Build plate: PEI, glass, adhesive or textured foil
Important: It's TPU hygroscopic, which means that absorbs moisture. It is recommended to stored in sealed boxes with a moisture absorber and if necessary to dry before printing.
Frequently asked questions about TPU filaments
Not all 3D printers are suitable for TPU. Direct extruders are recommended, especially for softer TPU. Bowden systems can work but require low speed and optimal settings.