TPE
210–240
°C
Print Temp
40–60
°C
Bed Temp
70
°C
Max Service
Overview
TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is a flexible filament that combines the properties of rubber with the processability of thermoplastics. It offers excellent elasticity and recovery, making it ideal for gaskets, seals, grips, and wearables. TPE is generally softer and more flexible than TPU variants, with shore hardness ratings typically in the 70A-90A range. It requires careful printer tuning due to its flexibility.
Properties
Difficulty
expert
Flexibility
elastomer
Layer Adhesion
good
Enclosure
no
Heated Bed
no
Dry Storage
no
Pros
- Extremely flexible, rubber-like, good abrasion resistance, wearable applications
Cons
- Hard to print on Bowden setups, slow speeds required, difficult to retract
Best For
- Gaskets
- seals
- grips
- phone cases
- wearables
- watch bands
- vibration dampers
- soft-touch overlays
- cosplay flexible parts
Laser Compatibility
LASER INTERACTION
Safety: AVOID — TPE combustion products are poorly characterized and potentially hazardous.
Fumes: Thermoplastic elastomers vary widely. Styrene-based TPE (SBS, SEBS) release styrene on burning. Other formulations release unknown volatiles.
Warning: Due to variability in TPE formulations and unknown combustion products, avoid laser processing TPE parts.
Brands
NinjaFlexPolymakereSUNSain Smart