Not all 3D printed objects need to be hard and rigid. Flexible filaments open the door to soft, bendable parts — perfect for phone cases, wearable gadgets, tires, and seals. The most popular material in this category is TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). In this guide, we’ll explore what flexible filaments are, their pros/cons, and how to print them successfully.
🧸 What is TPU Filament?
TPU is a rubber-like material that combines the durability of plastic with the flexibility of silicone.
✅ Full Form: Thermoplastic Polyurethane
🔥 Print Temp: 210–240°C
🛏️ Bed Temp: 40–60°C
🧠 Difficulty Level: Intermediate
It bends, stretches, compresses, and springs back into shape — making it ideal for impact-resistant or wearable applications.
✅ Key Benefits of TPU & Flexible Filaments
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Highly Flexible | Can stretch and compress without breaking |
| Shock Absorbent | Excellent for drop protection or mechanical cushioning |
| Durable | Resistant to wear, abrasion, oils, and chemicals |
| Water-Resistant | Good for outdoor and liquid-contact items |
❌ Challenges of Printing TPU
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Filament Jamming | Use a direct drive extruder, not Bowden |
| Stringing | Reduce print speed and optimize retraction |
| Slow Printing | Print at 20–40 mm/s for best results |
| Adhesion | Use glue stick or painter’s tape for better grip |
🧪 Best Use Cases of Flexible Filaments
- 📱 Phone Cases
- 👟 Shoe Soles & Wearables
- 🛞 RC Car Tires
- 🧰 Seals, Gaskets & Dampeners
- ⚙️ Vibration-absorbing parts
- 🛍️ Custom wristbands, straps, hinges
⚙️ TPU Printing Tips
- Keep filament dry (store with silica gel)
- Use a direct drive printer for easier feeding
- Set lower retraction (1–2 mm)
- Keep speed low (20–30 mm/s)
⚠️ Pro Tip: Avoid sharp corners in your design. TPU prints better with rounded geometry.
🧠 Should You Use Flexible Filaments?
✅ Use it if:
- You need flexibility or impact absorption
- Your part must bend, twist, or stretch
- You’re working on wearables, toys, or mechanical buffers
❌ Avoid if:
- You need rigid support or sharp detail
- Your printer only supports Bowden extruders
🔗 Want flexible parts without the hassle?
We print TPU, TPE, and other flexible materials at TrinityLayers.in
Just upload your design — we’ll take care of the rest.