It could hardly be softer: Innovative post-processing technique makes TPU ultra-flexible, waterproof

3D printing material It could hardly be softer: Innovative post-processing technique makes TPU ultra-flexible, waterproof

2024-01-27 Source: Speedpart 2 min Reading Time

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TPU has been available for the plastic laser sintering process for a long time, but what Speedpart offers is largely unique on the market. Post-processing makes the material even more flexible and waterproof.

With the introduction of TPU 70, Speedpart is setting a new standard for high-quality materials in 3D printing.(Source: Speedpart) — With the introduction of TPU 70, Speedpart is setting a new standard for high-quality materials in 3D printing.
(Source: Speedpart)

TPU, short for thermoplastic polyurethane, is a flexible plastic that enables the production and 3D printing of soft components. Speedpart is further improving the characteristics of this material by using a subsequent process that achieves a hardness of 70°+5 Shore A, one of the lowest Shore hardnesses on the market for SLS components.

Thermoplastic polyurethane is characterised by its high elasticity, resistance to abrasion and excellent strength. According to the manufacturer, TPU 70 is chemically resistant to antifreeze, glycol, engine oil, sodium carbonate, caustic soda, hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid and water. These properties make TPU 70 ideal for the manufacture of products that require flexibility and durability, such as seals, hoses or dampers.

To make the components even more flexible and improve their look and feel, Speedpart utilises the chemical smoothing process. The printed parts are vaporised with a special gas in an evacuated chamber. The gas seals the surfaces and removes the material to a minimum. This results in better surfaces without rough spots or powder residue and improves flexibility.

“The chemically smoothed TPU 70 is a real game changer for prototype and small series production. We are delighted with the feel and elasticity of the new material. We see a wide range of possible applications for our products,” says Heinrich Guthier, Managing Director of Igusta Schalltechnik. With the introduction of TPU 70, Speedpart is setting a new standard for high-quality materials in 3D printing. Wall thicknesses from 1.00 mm can be realised with or without subsequent smoothing. The material is also watertight from this wall thickness if the component is smoothed. It can also be coloured black after the construction process. The material is naturally white in colour. The TPU 70 has already been introduced in the 3D printing online shop Speed-Prototyping so that customers and interested parties can upload their 3D data directly, calculate and order components.

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