Mastering TPU Print Settings for Reliable 3D Printing

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) stands out in 3D printing thanks to its rubber-like flexibility, strength, and abrasion resistance. As a thermoplastic elastomer, it bridges the gap between plastic and rubber—ideal for wearable tech, phone cases, gaskets, and flexible industrial parts.

But TPU isn’t beginner-friendly. Its elastic nature demands careful tuning. Get the temperature, speed, extrusion, and storage right—and you'll achieve flawless, durable prints.

Key TPU Material Characteristics

TPU is classified by Shore hardness:

• Soft (85A–88A): Extremely flexible, stretches up to 700–1,000%.
• Medium (90A): Common TPU, stretches ~500%.
• Hard (95A): More rigid yet still flexible, stretching 200–300%.

These variations stem from its block copolymer structure—alternating hard and soft segments—which gives TPU its resilience, oil and chemical resistance, fatigue strength, and durability across temperature extremes.

Optimizing TPU Print Settings

Nozzle Temperature: 220–240 °C (230 °C often best).
Bed Temperature: 40–60 °C.
Print Speed: 15–40 mm/s (around 25 mm/s typical).
Retraction: 0–2 mm at 20–30 mm/s.
Extrusion Multiplier: 1.05–1.15×.
Nozzle Size: 0.4 mm standard, 0.6 mm for complex parts.
Cooling: Off for first layers, then 25–50% fan.
Layer Height: 0.1–0.2 mm.

Filament Handling and Storage

TPU is highly hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture quickly. Moist filament causes stringing, bubbling, and weak bonding. To maintain quality:

• Bake filament at 60–70 °C for 4-6 hours before use.
• Store spools in airtight containers with desiccant packs (RH < 60%).

Troubleshooting TPU Prints

Choosing TPU Settings for Shore Hardness

• Soft 85A TPU: 25–40 mm/s, minimal retraction, must be dried.
• Medium 90A TPU: 80–100 mm/s, modest retraction.
• Hard 95A TPU: 100–200 mm/s, can tolerate higher speeds and temps.

Applications of TPU

• Wearables: phone covers, watch bands.
• Medical devices: soft braces, ergonomic tool grips.
• Automotive: gaskets, vibration dampers.
• Sporting goods: shoe soles, pads, grips.
• Prototypes: hinges, seals, shock absorbers.

Summary of Best TPU Print Settings

• Nozzle: 215–240 °C (220 °C typical)
• Bed: 0–30 °C
• Speed: 80–100 mm/s
• Retraction: 0–2 mm @ 20–30 mm/s
• Layer height: 0.15–0.2 mm
• Extrusion multiplier: 1.05–1.15×
• Direct drive recommended
• Dry filament at 60–70 °C for 4-6 hours

Final Notes on TPU Printing

Always dry TPU and store it in controlled conditions. Start with slow speeds to fine-tune consistency. Direct drive extruders reduce feeding problems. There is no need for bed adhesion enhancers because TPU can stick to bed ''too much'' and because of that it's best to print on cold plate.