Article Tools/Herramientas de artículos

+ Larger Font/Fuente más grande | - Smaller Font/Fuente más pequeña

Choose a language:

Global World Topics

Details: Written by Christina Duron; Category: Global World Topics; Published: 13 July 2022; Created: 13 July 2022; Last Updated: 13 July 2022

Top Things To Know Before Printing With TPE Filaments

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is a flexible substance. When you’re 3D printing using TPE material, you must optimize the feed rate to produce the best potential result. It is best to print at a layer height of roughly 0.1mm to 0.2mm. You’ll need less plastic because the height is lower. This allows the extruder to employ a lower feed rate, reducing filament pressure. When printing with TPE, the greatest results are obtained by printing at a modest and consistent speed. Because TPE has high elasticity, any rapid changes in the print speed can result in a loss of control. Here are some of the top things you need to know before printing with TPE filaments.

Slow and Consistent Printing Speed

As previously stated, the slower the print speed, the better. As a result, printing at a speed of 35 mm/second or less will produce superior results. The usage of a heated build platform is not essential. When using a heated build plate, keep the temperature below 60 degrees Celsius to avoid affecting adhesion.

Avoid Using Rafts and Use a Negative Tolerance

It is critical to avoid using rafts while 3D printing using TPE material. Because the base layers of the rafts frequently have higher extrusion rates, this could present issues. You should apply a negative tolerance between the parts in 3D printing where the end product will need to fit on top of another object. This ensures that the flexible part may extend over the other object and fit snugly.

Shorten the Distance

The filament may buckle if there is a space between the extruder drive gear and the hot end’s input hole. If this happens, the filament will try to find another way out. It can result in a so-called bird’s nest or spaghetti if left neglected, resulting in a jam. To achieve the optimum results, the distance between the drive gear and the melt zone of the hot end should not be too long. This ensures that the filament feeds efficiently into the nozzle. Even more crucial, you should maintain tight tolerances along the filament’s course of travel to avoid kinking and coiling.

Placement of the Spool

A small adjustment to the material spool can make a big difference. The extruder will pull the filament into the nozzle, causing the filament spool on your 3D printer to unwind a little bit of plastic. The elasticity of TPE filament, on the other hand, means that as the extruder draws it in, the filament will stretch out, resulting in underextrusion.

We hope you have enjoyed our recap of the top things you need to know before printing with TPE filament. If you are looking at using a wide variety of filaments, don’t just stop at TPE. Ensure you know the benefits of using such filaments as PLA+.

More News From This Category

🇺🇸 Remembering 9/11: Twenty Four Years Later, A Tribute of Unity and Memory

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 07:00:19 +0000

On September 11, 2001, the world changed forever. The coordinated terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and United Airlines Flight 93 over Pennsylvania claimed nearly 3,000 lives. They left an indelible mark on global consciousness. Twenty-four years later, in 2021, the United States and the world paused to remember not only the tragedy but the resilience, unity, and humanity that emerged in its wake.

Expert Tips for Improving Your Welding Skills

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 12:49:51 +0000

Someone wearing a mask and other protective gear as they weld a metal piece. Sparks are flying as they work.

Whether you're just starting your welding journey or you've been laying beads for years, there's always room to grow your skills. Great welding separates the pros from the hobbyists, and the difference often comes down to mastering the fundamentals while continuously pushing yourself to improve. These expert tips will help you improve your welding skills, produce cleaner joints, and work more efficiently on every project.

How To Prepare for Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 12:46:35 +0000

Three rainbow colored hot air balloons floating in the sky. The sky is clear and blue with no clouds.

Soaring thousands of feet above the ground in a wicker basket offers a unique perspective and an unforgettable adventure. To get the most out of your flight, a little preparation goes a long way. Understanding how to prepare for your first hot air balloon ride helps you feel comfortable and ready for the experience.

6 Mistakes Retail Managers Make That Impact Profitability

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:54:12 +0000

Two retail managers are planning something in the clothing store. They're looking at a mannequin with their laptops.

Effective retail management requires precision, strategic planning, and careful attention to detail. However, even experienced managers can sometimes make costly mistakes that drain resources and reduce profit margins. Problems like inventory mismanagement and inefficient staff scheduling can cause ripple effects, disrupt operations, and affect overall profitability.

The Hidden Costs of Owning a Boat You Should Know

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 09:51:53 +0000

A happy mature man pulling a rope to dock his sailboat at the marina. He's wearing sunglasses and a linen shirt.

Boat ownership offers freedom, adventure, and countless memories on the water. However, many new boat owners face sticker shock when they encounter expenses beyond the initial purchase price.