TPU filament is widely used for both professional and hobbyist 3D printing applications. Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) has flexible and durable qualities that are not only unique to this specific material, but also useful in various industries. Combining the elastic elements of rubber with the strength of plastic, TPU filament lends itself to the creation of mechanical parts that require impact and abrasion resistance. This material can also be used to create durable toys and wearable bracelets.
If you are looking for a supplier of TPU filament in South Africa, 3D Unique is your first choice. We stock a variety of brands as well to ensure that you can buy the ideal filament for your printing needs. Today, we talk about some advanced tips and tricks to remember when printing with this specific material.
How Can I Get the Best Results from TPU Filament?
- Use a Dual-Drive Direct Extruder: If you want to get the best results from printing with TPU filament, you should consider using a printer that is fitted with a high-performance direct drive system that has dual feeding wheels. This allows for a shorter and more constrained filament path to ensure optimal control over the feeding process during prints. This also results in a more consistent extrusion rate, which is crucial when printing with softer filaments such as TPU.
- Using a Bowden Setup: When using a Bowden setup for TPU filament printing, we recommend that you reduce the length of the Bowden tube and remove any tight bends within the tube. If you use Capricorn tubing, you can expect a reduction in friction. We also recommend that you consider adding a guider for the filament that sits close to the extruder itself. This will prevent buckling and kinking during prints.
- Keep an Eye on Moisture Levels: TPU filament is highly hygroscopic. This means that it is extremely susceptible to absorb moisture, which can reduce the printing quality of your builds and lead to a plethora of issues if not carefully monitored. If you have a dry box, we recommend that you use it to dry your TPU filament beforehand. You can also use a food hydrator for this process. This will ensure that your print quality is optimised and that you do not have to spend hours on troubleshooting in case something goes wrong while printing with moist TPU.
3D Unique is your answer to buying TPU filament for your 3D printing endeavours in South Africa. We also sell 3D printers and scanners from the industry’s leading brands. Browse our online store today and place your order with us before 2025 runs out.