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Thermoplastic PolyUrethane (TPU) is a flexible filament and can be used to print objects such as tires, gaskets, or other parts that may require some flexibility. As a flexible filament, TPU requires some special handling for use with the 3D printers.
Thermoplastic PolyUrethane (TPU) is a flexible filament and can be used to print objects such as tires, gaskets, or other parts that may require some flexibility. As a flexible filament, TPU requires some special handling for use with the 3D printers.
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Depending on the number of walls/perimeters and the infill pattern/density that is used, you can end up with prints that are very squishy, or have very little flexibility.
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* For strong parts with limited flexibility, consider 4-6 perimeters and a sturdy 3D infill pattern like Cubic.
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* For more flexible parts, 2-3 perimeters is generally OK, and low % infill patterns help solid objects flex
== Challenges with TPU ==
== Challenges with TPU ==
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* TPU is very hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air) and care should be taken to ensure the filament is kept dry.
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* TPU is very hygroscopic, meaning that it absorbs moisture from air, and care should be taken to ensure the filament is kept dry for best results.
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** Many people build single-roll containers so they can use larger amounts of dessicant to keep their filament dry.
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== Supported TPU Filaments ==
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See [[Allowed Filaments#TPU|Allowed Filaments]] for the most up to date list of TPU filaments allowed at Kwartzlab
== Printing With TPU ==
== Printing With TPU ==
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* Because TPU is flexible and stretches, it '''CANNOT''' be used in the AMS.
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'''Because TPU is flexible and stretches, it '''CANNOT''' be used in the AMS!'''
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* At this time, TPU can only be be printed on Po (Bambu #1)
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* At this time, TPU can only be be printed on Po (Bambu #1), and only through manual loading through the filament dryer.
* See [[Manually Loading Filament]] for instructions on loading filament into the machine manually.
* See [[Manually Loading Filament]] for instructions on loading filament into the machine manually.
== Slicer Profiles ==
== Slicer Profiles ==