TPU Guide

Your complete resource for 3D printing with TPU filament

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TPU filament

What is TPU?

(Thermoplastic Polyurethane) Flexible, rubber-like 3D printing filament designed for parts that need to bend, stretch, and endure. Because some prints shouldn’t be rigid. TPU unlocks a new dimension of functionality, where parts move, flex, and absorb impact without breaking.

High Durability
High Durability
Absorbs Impact
Absorbs Impact
Wearable Parts
Wearable Parts
Bends Without Breaking
Bends Without Breaking

Properties &
Benefits

TPU offers excellent flexibility, abrasion resistance, and impact absorption. It’s resistant to oils, greases, and many chemicals. Shore hardness typically ranges from 85A to 95A, making it ideal for shock absorption and flexible applications.

Super Flexible
Super Flexible
Elastic Shape Recovery
Elastic Shape Recovery
High Impact Absorption
High Impact Absorption
Chemical Resistant
Chemical Resistant
NOZZLE TEMP
NOZZLE TEMP
220 - 250°C
BED TEMP
BED TEMP
40 - 60°C
PRINT SPEED
PRINT SPEED
20 - 30 mm/s

OPTIMALPRINTSETTINGS

BEST PRACTICES LEAD TO
BETTER RESULTS

QUICK TIPS FORTPU SUCCESS

SLOW & STEADY
Print at 20-30mm/s for optimal results and to prevent extruder jams.
MINIMAL RETRACTION
Keep retraction distance to 1-2mm or disable it entirely to avoid filament grinding.
DIRECT DRIVE PREFERRED
Direct drive extruders work best with TPU due to shorter filament path.
NO TPU IN AMS OR CFS
Longer filament paths or use in the AMS can cause jams or clogs. TPU is flexible, and therefore elastic. The AMS can cause the filament to flex and strain causing bad quality prints.
DRY STORAGE AND DRY BEFORE PRINTING
Store TPU in a dry environment as it can absorb moisture from the air. For best quality prints, ensure you dry your TPU before printing.
SUPPORT SETTINGS
Use wider support interfaces and higher Z-distance for easier removal.

Popular TPUPrint Projects

Discover what you can create with TPU filament. Click on any project to explore STL's and projects.

TPU Dishwashing Sponge by 土豆地呱
TPU Dishwashing Sponge by 土豆地呱
Use this TPU dishwashing sponge on your dirtiest pots and pans. Tried and tested, warm it up with a little hot water and your favorite dish soap for max flexibility!
Breathable TPU Orthopedic Insole by Artigiano Digitale
Breathable TPU Orthopedic Insole by Artigiano Digitale
Comfortable custom-fit insoles with shock absorption, designed by an Orthopedic Technician. Simply scale the length of the insole for a specific size!
Wristbrace by familieKP
Wristbrace by familieKP
Have a sprain? Out of bandage wraps and need a quick fix? TPU is here to save the day!
Fixel 2 by Boundless 3D
Fixel 2 by Boundless 3D
Looking to for a coaster? Maybe a floor mat? The Fixel 2 is here for your hexagonal textile needs! Print each hexagon set in place and seperate after printing. To be seperated and joined over and over again!
The Almog (A Fashion Module) by Variable Seams
The Almog (A Fashion Module) by Variable Seams
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Parameterized Rugged Box with TPU Gasket by Maxman
Parameterized Rugged Box with TPU Gasket by Maxman
Combine the powers of TPU and PLA with this rugged box! This box is parametric in OpenSCAD and can be sized for your needs.
TPU Strap or Ribbon Maker by Fuszy
TPU Strap or Ribbon Maker by Fuszy
If you're making fashion, step it up with these reusable ribbon straps! This model is parametric, meaning it can be scaled to your needs.
Slim Wallet V6 by Makerverse Designs
Slim Wallet V6 by Makerverse Designs
Why spend money on a wallet when you already have TPU? Make your own and save that cash for more filament!
Hex Colanders by Triple G
Hex Colanders by Triple G
Need some spare Colanders for the kitchen that are virtually indestructible? Look no further! Depending on the print, PLA prints can be TPU too!
USB C Universal Cable Saver by NordcaForm
USB C Universal Cable Saver by NordcaForm
Fraying cable? Need something a little more rigid for tight spaces? This USB C Universal Cable saver does the trick!

Compare 3D Filaments

TPU filament
TPU
Flexibility
Durability
Ease of printing
Best Applications
FLEXIBLE PARTS
TPU best applications
Heat Resistance
TPU heat resistance
116°C
Chemical Resistance
TPU chemical resistance
High
PLA filament
PLA
Flexibility
Durability
Ease of printing
Best Applications
RIGID OR DECORATIVE PARTS
PLA best applications
Heat Resistance
PLA heat resistance
55-60°C
Chemical Resistance
PLA chemical resistance
Low
PETG filament
PETG
Flexibility
Durability
Ease of printing
Best Applications
RIGID PARTS WITH SOME FLEX
PETG best applications
Heat Resistance
PETG heat resistance
70-80°C
Chemical Resistance
PETG chemical resistance
Medium

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