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Polymers for industrial 3D printing

3D printing TPU

Thermoplastic polyurethane

3D printing TPU: strong and elastic

TPU stands for thermoplastic polyurethane and is a urethane-based elastomer. The material combines the properties of thermoplastics and thermosets and is ideal for the 3D printing of complex and rubber-like parts such as hoses, sleeves and similar items.

What are the properties of 3D printing TPU?
3D printed parts made of TPU are particularly strong and flexible at the same time, as well as scratch and cut-resistant. Although this makes them very resilient, they are only suitable for post-processing using machining to a limited extent. TPU material is not resistant to acids and alcohols. Thanks to its proven dermatological safety, TPU is also suitable for the production of sports and fitness accessories such as protectors or fitness bracelets.

Fields of application of 3D printing TPU
Laser sintering with TPU is a cost-effective solution for all industries that require strong, resilient products that need to be flexible and pliable at the same time, for example consumer goods such as fitness bracelets and shoe soles. Thanks to its properties, TPU material is also suitable for seals and upholstery elements in vehicle construction and the automotive industry. In addition, tailor-made applications in orthopaedic technology with individually manufactured orthoses and prostheses are becoming increasingly possible.

TPU

Thermoplastic polyurethane

TPU material is a urethane-based elastomer with a rubber-like structure. Thermoplastic polyurethane is transparent to opaque and can be dyed different colours depending on requirements. As a thermoplastic material, TPU has a high melting point and can therefore be shaped and processed at high temperatures. It has high abrasion and tear resistance and 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

Properties of 3D printing TPU
Mechanical
  • Shore hardness D (15 s) 80 MPa
  • Tensile modulus 60 MPa
  • Tensile strength 7 MPa
  • Elongation at break (XY) 250 %
Thermal
  • Melting temperature (20 °C/min.) 138 °C
Physical
  • Density (laser-sintered) 1080 kg/m³

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