TPU is a flexible, rubber-like material. It can bend, squish, and stretch, then spring back to its shape. It comes in different firmness levels, from fairly soft to firm like a skateboard wheel.
What TPU is good at
- Flexible and bouncy: Bends and returns to shape again and again.
- Tough and hard-wearing: Resists tearing, scuffing, and wear.
- Absorbs shock: Great for protective cases and bumpers.
- Resists oil and grease: Useful for seals and parts around machines.
Where it falls short
- Slow to print: Flexible materials print slowly, which adds cost.
- Less detail: Fine detail and sharp edges are harder to get.
- Firmness varies: Ask your shop which hardness they stock; it's often shown as a number like 95A (firmer numbers are stiffer).
Is TPU right for my project?
It's usually a good fit if your item:
- needs to bend, flex, or grip
- must absorb shock or seal a gap
- can have fairly simple shapes
For tiny, detailed rubbery parts, ask about flexible resin. For batches of flexible parts, industrial TPU powder is an option.
Common questions
How soft is TPU? It depends on the grade. Most common TPU is firm but bendable, like a phone case. Softer grades exist but are harder to print.
Is TPU waterproof? The material doesn't absorb water, and it's often used for seals. Whether a print is watertight also depends on the design and print settings.
Find TPU near you
Ready to get something made? Find shops that offer TPU near you, or upload your file for a quote. Not sure which material to choose? Choose by what you're making or ask a local shop.