ABS Filament from a PLA Buyer Perspective: TPU Comparison
TPU is a flexible filament serving applications PLA cannot. For buyers evaluating ABS Filament, understanding TPU properties and positioning creates comprehensive product range.
PLA vs TPU Properties
| Property | PLA | TPU 95A |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness | Rigid | Shore 95A |
| Print Temp | 195-220 C | 210-230 C |
| Tolerance | ±0.02 mm | ±0.03 mm |
| Flexibility | None | High |
When TPU Is Required
Our TPU 95A 1.75 mm: abrasion-resistant wearables, gaskets, phone cases. Shore 95A, ±0.03 mm, 210-230 C. Low odor. REACH/RoHS compliant.
Applications Where TPU Excels
Wearables: watch bands, fitness straps. Cases: phone, tablet. Seals: O-rings, pipe seals. Drone: guards, landing gear. Footwear: soles, insoles. PLA cannot serve flexible applications.
Print Settings for TPU
210-230 C, bed 40-60 C. Direct-drive recommended. Bowden at slow speeds (20-30 mm/s). Retraction 0.5-2 mm. Speed 20-40 mm/s. No enclosure.
TPU Storage
Hygroscopic. Vacuum-sealed with desiccant. Airtight container opened. Use within 3 months. Sealed 24 months.
Custom Color TPU
From 200 spools. Pantone/RAL. Delta E below 2.0. REACH/RoHS compliant. Master records for consistency.
PLA + TPU Range Strategy
PLA primary 60-70%, TPU specialty 5-10%. Different segments. Mixed pallets. TPU premium 30-50% above PLA.
MOQ and Pricing
TPU MOQ 100 spools. Volume discount 500+. 500g spool option. Lead 15-20 stock, 25-30 custom. FOB/CIF. CE available.
FAQ
When TPU over PLA?
Flexible parts, wearables, gaskets, cases. TPU 95A: Shore 95A, ±0.03 mm.
TPU hardness?
Shore 95A. Semi-flexible. Abrasion resistant. 210-230 C.
Direct-drive required?
Recommended. Bowden at 20-30 mm/s. Retraction 0.5-2 mm.
TPU storage?
Hygroscopic. Vacuum with desiccant. Airtight opened. 3 months. Sealed 24.
Custom TPU colors?
Yes, 200 spools. Pantone/RAL. Delta E below 2.0. REACH/RoHS.
TPU MOQ?
100 spools. 500g option. Volume 500+. Lead 15-20 stock.
TPU vs PLA price?
30-50% premium. Specialty flexible material.
REACH/RoHS for TPU?
Yes. European consumer goods. Per product line and batch.