Polymers for industrial 3D printing

3D printing TPU

Thermoplastic polyurethane

3D printed TPU: strong and elastic

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is an elastic high-performance plastic that combines the properties of rubber with the advantages of a thermoplastic material. TPU is characterized by its exceptional flexibility, high mechanical strength and excellent resistance to environmental influences. Thanks to its variable degrees of hardness and processing options, TPU is used in numerous branches of industry.

Advantages of 3D printing TPU

High scratch and cut resistance
High strength with simultaneous flexibility
Suitable for complex rubber-like parts
dermatological safety

TPU material properties

Mechanically resilient
TPU has very high elasticity. This makes the material resistant to cracks and tears. TPU also offers high abrasion resistance and is therefore particularly durable.

Chemically resistant
TPU is resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including oils, greases, solvents and fuels. This makes TPU ideal for industrial applications where materials frequently come into contact with these aggressive substances.

Thermally stable
Thermoplastic polyurethane is stable at both low and high temperatures. The melting point of TPU varies depending on the material composition, but always remains within a range that enables efficient processing. TPU remains elastic at low temperatures and dimensionally stable at high temperatures – ideal for extreme environments. At FKM, TPU is processed in powder form using the innovative SLS process (short for: selective laser sintering) – an additive manufacturing method.

Industrial applications of 3D-printed TPU parts
In the automotive industry, TPU is used for cable sheathing, hoses, seals and bumpers. Its high load-bearing capacity and chemical resistance make it ideal for use in vehicles.

TPU is also widely used in medical technology, particularly in medical devices, implants and tubes. Its biocompatibility, high flexibility and resistance to disinfectants make it a preferred material.

In electronics, TPU protects sensitive components with flexible housings and resistant cable sheathing.

TPU is also used in the textile and shoe industry, for example for non-slip shoe soles, waterproof fabrics and elastic coatings.

TPU

Thermoplastic polyurethane

The material TPU is a urethane-based elastomer with a rubber-like structure. Thermoplastic polyurethane is transparent to opaque and can be dyed in various colors depending on requirements. As a thermoplastic material, TPU has a high melting point and can be molded and processed at high temperatures. It has high abrasion and tear resistance as well as good weather and oil resistance. When laser sintering with TPU powder, the wall thickness should ideally be between 1.5 and 3 mm.

Maximum installation space: 675 x 365 x 550 mm

Product sheet (PDF)

Properties of 3D printed TPU

Mechanical

Shore hardness D (15 s)

80 MPa

Train e-module

60 MPa

Tensile strength

7 MPa

Elongation at break

250 %

Thermal

Melting temperature (20°C/min)

138°C

Physical

Density (laser sintered)

1080 kg/M³

FKM - Your 3D printing service provider

Thanks to continuous research and development, FKM is one of the pioneers in the industry. With us, you benefit from many years of expertise and state-of-the-art technologies. Whether prototype, series production or individual solutions, whether metal or plastic – we are your partner for high-quality and efficient results. By using pioneering manufacturing technologies, we can produce individual components with high precision for our customers.

Contact us to discuss your project with us and realize innovative manufacturing solutions.