Thermoplastic polyurethane, or TPU for short, is a versatile filament that is ideal for flexible and elastic 3D printing projects. In this article, we present you a detailed guide on how to successfully print with TPU to achieve impressive results.
Preparing the printer
Before you start the actual printing, thorough preparation of the 3D printer is crucial.
1. Set nozzle temperature
TPU has specific printing requirements. Set the nozzle temperature to the manufacturer's recommended temperature to ensure optimal melting behavior. This is crucial to avoid blockages.
2. Prepare print bed
A clean and well-prepared printing surface is important to ensure good adhesion of the TPU filament. If necessary, use adhesion promoters or adhesive tape to improve adhesion.
Load TPU filament
1. Filament preparation
Before loading the TPU filament, check carefully whether there is no contamination or damage. Smooth filament feeding is crucial for successful printing.
2. Adjust extrusion settings
Due to the flexible nature of TPU, a slower extrusion speed is often advisable. Reduce the extrusion rate to avoid feeding too quickly, which could cause problems such as tangles.
Print settings for TPU
1. Optimize layer height
Since TPU is flexible, it is important to adjust the layer height accordingly. Choose a lower layer height for detailed models and a higher layer height for faster prints.
2. Adjust print speed
TPU often requires reduced printing speed to ensure even deposition of layers. Experiment with different speeds and find the optimal setting for your project.
3. Minimize retraction
To avoid stringing and clogging, minimize retraction settings. This reduces the risk of filament buildup between printing movements.
Troubleshooting
Despite careful preparation, problems may occur during TPU printing. Here are some common problems and possible solutions:
1. Reduce stringing
Stringing occurs when the filament comes out between printing movements. Reduce print speed and adjust retraction to minimize stringing.
2. Prevent warping
To prevent warping, use a heated print plate and optimize the print bed temperature according to the filament manufacturer's recommendations.
Conclusion
With these comprehensive instructions you are well equipped to print successfully with TPU. From preparing the printer to loading the filament to fine-tuning print settings, follow these steps to create high-quality and flexible 3D prints with TPU.