{"id":42204,"date":"2020-08-26T08:52:01","date_gmt":"2020-08-26T06:52:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/botland.com.pl\/blog\/tpu-filaments-features-and-possible-applications\/"},"modified":"2021-03-15T14:55:52","modified_gmt":"2021-03-15T13:55:52","slug":"tpu-filaments-features-and-possible-applications","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/botland.store\/blog\/tpu-filaments-features-and-possible-applications\/","title":{"rendered":"TPU filaments \u2013 features and possible applications"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading time:<\/span> < 1<\/span> min.<\/span><\/span>

A large part of 3D prints<\/a><\/strong> are rigid models that must adhere to specified dimensions. This is important for 1:1 scale prototypes, for example, but also for various types of enclosures or parts of mechanical systems that must conform to the other elements of the system. In some cases, however, designers do not need a filament<\/a><\/strong> that is rigid and resistant to bending, but on the contrary – a flexible one that deforms and returns to its original shape. For such prints, TPU filaments<\/a><\/strong> are invaluable; we present them in more detail in our article.<\/p>\n


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Devil Design TPU Filament, 1.75mm – White.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

TPU as a plastic<\/h2>\n

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU for short) has many industrial applications. Microscopically, this flexible material consists of two types of structures: long, deformation-prone “soft” chains and shorter, highly polarized “hard” chains. They actually form a crystal structure. However, if you heat the TPU, the crystalline “network” changes its properties and polyurethane can be formed very easily. Thanks to this, the material is used in the automotive industry, in the production of sports accessories, tools, medical equipment or in glass lamination. The use of TPU film makes glass and mirrors more resistant to cracking. Polyurethane is something we encounter in everyday life as it is one of the most popular raw materials used in the production… of cell phone cases. The “rubber” cases we put smartphones in are mostly made of TPU.<\/p>\n

Main features of TPU filaments<\/h2>\n

Thermoplastic polyurethane, used as a consumable material for 3D printers, allows designers to create flexible elements of mechanical systems and dimensionally stable structures. TPU filaments are similar to rubber: they guarantee high flexibility, which means that all parts printed with TPU easily return to their original shape after being compressed. Models made of TPU filaments are abrasion resistant and have a high resistance in contact with many chemicals – especially oils and greases. They can withstand changing weather conditions very well. Models made of thermoplastic polyurethane do not deteriorate with impact. They also have the ability to absorb vibrations and shocks (which makes TPU filaments even more similar to rubber).<\/p>\n