TPU

Intermediate

Thermoplastic Polyurethane

TPU is the go-to flexible filament for prints that need to bend, stretch, or absorb impact. It is used for phone cases, gaskets, shoe insoles, and anything that needs rubber-like properties. Printing requires patience — slow speeds are essential.

Material Properties

Strength6/10

Flexibility10/10

Heat Resistance5/10

Printability6/10

Best For

Phone cases
Gaskets & seals
Flexible hinges
Shoe insoles
RC car tires
Cable management

Avoid For

Bowden extruder setups (use direct drive)
High-speed printing
Humid environments without drying

Pro Tips

01Use a direct drive extruder for best results
02Print slowly — 20–30mm/s maximum
03Dry filament at 50°C for 4 hours before printing
04Disable retraction or use minimal retraction

Dialed-In Print Profiles

Bambu Lab X1 Carbon

Nozzle

230°C

Bed

40°C

Speed

80mm/s

1st Layer

20mm/s

Retract

0.5mm

Fan

60%

⚠ Reduce speed significantly. Disable AMS — feed directly.

Prusa Research MK4

Nozzle

230°C

Bed

40°C

Speed

25mm/s

1st Layer

15mm/s

Retract

0.5mm

Fan

50%

⚠ Direct drive makes MK4 excellent for TPU. Very slow speeds required.

Quick Specs

Print Temp220–240°C

Bed Temp30–60°C

Cost / kg$25–$45

EnclosureNot Required

DryingRequired

DifficultyIntermediate

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Recommended brands: Hatchbox, eSUN, Polymaker, Bambu

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