How to print with Ultimaker TPU 95A

Ultimaker TPU 95A (thermoplastic polyurethane) is a semi-flexible material that can be used in a wide variety of engineering applications where performance is more important than aesthetic qualities. Although most flexible filaments are usually difficult to print, Ultimaker TPU 95A is optimised for easier and faster printing without negatively affecting layer bonding.

Note: The information provided here applies to Ultimaker TPU 95A, similar quality cannot be guaranteed with third-party filaments.

Compatibility

Ultimaker TPU 95A is supported on the Ultimaker S5, Ultimaker S3, Ultimaker 3, and Ultimaker 2+ (Connect). On these printers, it is compatible with the print core / nozzle sizes as shown in the below overview. You will need an AA print core to print TPU 95A on the Ultimaker S5, Ultimaker S3 and Ultimaker 3.

PrinterCompatible print cores / nozzlesUltimaker S5 (Pro Bundle)AA 0.4, AA 0.8Ultimaker S3AA 0.4, AA 0.8Ultimaker 3 (Extended)AA 0.4, AA 0.8Ultimaker 2+ Connect0.25, 0.4, 0.6Ultimaker 2+ (Extended)0.25, 0.4, 0.6

Note: Ultimaker TPU 95A is not supported on the Ultimaker 2 Go, Ultimaker 2 (Extended), Ultimaker Original+, and Ultimaker Original

Ultimaker TPU 95A has optimised settings for the Ultimaker Pro Bundle, Air Manager and Material Station. This ensures a good end of filament and end of print experience in the Material Station and an optimal build environment with the Air Manager. Please make sure to use the latest version of Ultimaker Cura and ensure the firmware has the latest update.

Because TPU 95A is prone to oozing, we don’t officially support printing TPU 95A in combination with other materials. However, on the Ultimaker S5, Ultimaker S3 and Ultimaker 3, TPU 95A can be printed experimentally in combination with PVA, Breakaway, ABS, Nylon, PC, or another color of TPU 95A. Be aware that dual-extrusion combinations with TPU 95A may result and stringing and blobs on the surface of the print. Results are dependent on the model type that is used.

Recommended settings and configuration

Note: Always use the latest version of Ultimaker Cura and make sure that your 3D printer is updated with the latest firmware version to include the correct material profile for Ultimaker TPU 95A.

Temperatures

For printing TPU 95A a nozzle temperature of 220 - 235 °C is recommended. Furthermore, the TPU 95A profiles are optimised to print on a cold build plate on the Ultimaker S5 and Ultimaker 3, and on a build plate of 70 °C on the Ultimaker 2+.

Note:  The correct temperatures are automatically used based on the printer, nozzle size, and profile you select in Ultimaker Cura.

Tip:  To make use of a cold build plate on a dual extrusion printer, it is important to disable the extruder that is not loaded with TPU, otherwise the highest build plate temperature will be chosen. This can be done in Ultimaker Cura using the "Enabled" checkbox.

Adhesion

In most instances, extra adhesion is not necessary for a successful print, but we always advise applying a thin layer of glue (included in the accessory box of your Ultimaker) to the glass plate for the best adhesion.

To improve adhesion when printing more complex prints with Ultimaker TPU95A, it is recommended to apply a thin layer of Magigoo Flex to the glass plate.