Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), commonly referred to as flexible filament, is a versatile material used in 3D printing for its elasticity and pliability. TPU is known for its rubber-like properties, allowing it to bend and stretch, making it an excellent choice for creating flexible and impact-resistant 3D printed items. Ideal for applications such as custom gaskets, phone cases, and flexible components, TPU opens up possibilities for producing objects that require a softer, more resilient touch in the realm of additive manufacturing.
Applications
1
Flexible Prototypes
TPU is commonly used in 3D printing to create flexible prototypes, allowing designers to test and iterate on products with elastic characteristics, such as wearables or flexible enclosures.
2
Customized Footwear
TPU is suitable for 3D printing customized insoles, shoe components, or even entire footwear, providing comfort and flexibility tailored to an individual's needs.
3
Soft Robotics and Grippers
TPU's elasticity makes it well-suited for 3D printing soft robotics components and grippers. These flexible structures can adapt to various shapes and materials, enhancing the versatility of robotic systems.
Samples
TPU Wallet
This wallet can hold up to 9-10 cards but I found it works best with 7. Both card slots on the left and the top/bottom slot on the right are designed to hold only one card (for easy removal). The other two slots will hold 2 cards. If the cards are a tight fit either cycle the cards in and out a couple times or print it again scaled up 1-2%.
Photo credits: ZACHLOTHE
Stacking Token Trays
This is a stacking tray for storing tokens for your favorite card game. It should fit nicely in with your cards in whatever kind of box or case you use. The sides and end trays are printed using a flexible TPU filament to allow the harder, PLA flanges to fit inside them without much slipping. The whole design is modular, so you can either print a single tray or stack as many as you need. The designs I printed fit together snugly enough to store without worry, but you might want to adjust the size of the lids for a tighter or looser fit.
Photo credits: BRAHM
Cup Holder Adapter for H2 Water Bottle
This is a cup holder adapter for an H2 Hydrology 22 oz water bottle in a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. The water bottle fits loosely inside the cup holder and can fall out while driving. This design stabilizes the water bottle by filling the gap which keeps it from falling out. This must be printed using a flexible filament like NinjaFlex TPU since the adapter has a snug fit against the water bottle (slight inference).
Photo credits: SJ3DPRINTS