TPU

TPU is a flexible 3D printing material designed for parts that need to bend, compress, and absorb impact without breaking. It’s ideal for protective components, vibration-damping parts, and flexible mechanisms where rigid plastics simply won’t work.

In this guide, we’ll explain what TPU is, its advantages and limitations, when it’s the right choice, and how TPU is priced at Precision Print Co.

What Is TPU?

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a rubber-like elastomer known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to wear. Unlike rigid plastics, TPU can stretch and return to its original shape, making it ideal for dynamic applications.

At Precision Print Co, TPU is commonly used for gaskets, protective covers, feet, flexible clips, seals, and vibration-damping components.

Advantages of TPU 3D Printing

TPU offers unique benefits that rigid materials cannot.

Excellent Flexibility

TPU can bend, stretch, and compress without cracking or breaking.

High Impact and Abrasion Resistance

TPU absorbs impact well and resists wear, making it suitable for protective and high-use parts.

Good Chemical and Oil Resistance

TPU performs well in environments exposed to oils, greases, and mild chemicals.

Durable for Repeated Use

TPU parts maintain their performance over repeated flexing and compression cycles.

Limitations of TPU

TPU is a specialised material and isn’t suitable for all applications.

Not Rigid or Structural

TPU is not designed for load-bearing or structural parts that require stiffness.

Longer Print Times

TPU prints more slowly than rigid materials, increasing production time.

Limited Heat Resistance

TPU performs best at moderate temperatures and is not suitable for high-heat environments.

When Is TPU the Right Choice?

TPU is an excellent option when your project involves:

  • Flexible or rubber-like components

  • Shock-absorbing or vibration-damping parts

  • Protective covers and bumpers

  • Seals, gaskets, and feet

  • Parts requiring repeated flexing

TPU is often chosen when rigid plastics would crack or fail under movement or impact.

TPU Pricing at Precision Print Co

We maintain clear and transparent pricing for specialist materials like TPU.

TPU printing at Precision Print Co is priced at:

  • £0.35 per gram of material

  • £2.50 per hour of print time

Final pricing depends on:

  • Part size and weight

  • Print duration

  • Shore hardness and flexibility requirements

  • Quantity ordered

If TPU isn’t suitable for your application, we’ll always recommend a more appropriate material.

TPU vs Other Materials

TPU fits into our material lineup as follows:

  • PLA / PLA-CF – rigid parts and prototypes

  • PETG – durable functional parts

  • ABS / ASA – heat-resistant components

  • TPU – flexible and impact-absorbing parts

  • PA6 (Nylon 6) – high-strength engineering parts

TPU is the go-to material when flexibility and durability are required together.

TPU at Precision Print Co

We recommend TPU for customers who need flexible, long-lasting parts that perform reliably under movement, vibration, or impact.

As always, our focus is on choosing the right material for the application, not just what’s easiest to print.

Need Help Choosing a Material?

If you’re unsure whether TPU is right for your project, we’re happy to help. We’ll review how your part will be used and recommend the most suitable material based on performance, environment, and cost.

👉 Learn more about our custom 3D printing services:
https://precisionprint.uk/pages/custom-3d-printing-services

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