Description: This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about Flexible TPE and TPU filament from Summer 2019.

Q: What is TPE or TPU filament?
A: TPE and TPU are both flexible filaments, that are rubbery and elasticity in quality, and useful for many purposes that may require a rubber like component.

Q: What is the difference between TPE and TPU filament?
A: While TPE and TPU are technically two different filaments, TPE is also considered to be a category name for all flexible filaments. There are some slight differences between the two, however. TPE (Thermoplastic elastomers) generally has less of a hardness than TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane). TPE melts with a faint aroma, while TPU melts with an irritating odor. TPE feels softer, while TPU is rougher with strong friction. TPE has a moderate resistance towards chemicals while TPU has a high chemical resistance. Finally, TPE has a moderate resistance to abrasion, while TPU has high abrasion resistance.

Q: Why would I use TPE and TPU filament?
A: TPE and TPU have high elasticity and excellent abrasion resistance, they also have consistent diameter, and smooth feeding properties. It easily sticks to build platforms, and bonds between layers for high quality objects. It is durable, with low shrinkage during cooling.

Q: Why wouldn’t I use TPE and TPU filament?
A: TPE and TPU are rather difficult to print with and requires fine-tuning of the nozzle temperature and flow rate. They tend to squeeze out of the extruder in all directions, making it very difficult to print with when using a Bowden style extruder.

Q: What temperatures do I print TPE and TPU filament at?
A: While the exact temperature will vary based on your printer, the filament you are using, and your preferences, the recommended range of temperature for TPE and TPU filament is 210-250°C, and 30-65°C for the bed temperature.

Q: What sizes of filament do I need?
A: The size of filament that you need will vary based on your printer. Currently there are 1.75mm and 2.85mm filaments available. Usually printers will only support one of these sizes, so ensure you are using the correct size.

Q: Why is there 3.0mm filament listed online?
A: 3.0mm filament is another name for 2.85mm filament. It was originally used as an easier way to purchase filament, rather than using a rather specific number of 2.85mm. However, over time some manufacturers did not realize this and started making 3.0mm filament, so be sure to check the size in the specifications for the filament. This will normally be listed as true diameter and should be listed as 2.85mm rather than 3.0mm. 1.75mm filament however does not have this issue, and you can purchase it without any inconveniences.

Q: What print speed should I use when printing with TPE or TPU filament?
A: The exact speed will vary based on your printer and your personal preference, however typically 30mm/s - 40mm/s is the recommended print speed.

Q: What retraction settings should I use?
A: It is highly recommended to disable retraction while printing with TPE or TPU. Due to its consistency it can cause extensive clogging issues if the retraction settings are too high.