<p id="isPasted">Most 3D printing technologies work in a broadly similar way. They form a precise 2D shape — by extruding, <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/knowing-how-long-to-cure-resin-prints" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">curing</a>, or sintering material, for example — then add successive 2D shapes on top of the original one. The end result is a 3D object, with each layer tightly fused together.</p><p id="isPasted">The process of laminated object manufacturing (LOM) is different to most 3D printing processes, though most engineers consider it a form of 3D printing. Uniquely, laminated object manufacturing uses a laser cutter to cut away sections of material in order to give the part its final shape, making it both additive (like 3D printing) and subtractive (like machining). It also resembles traditional printing, because it can use reams of ordinary office paper as feedstock.</p><p id="isPasted">LOM is a low-cost rapid prototyping process unlike any other. And although its uses are somewhat limited, it remains an intriguing manufacturing technology for prototyping and modeling.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>What is LOM?</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Laminated object manufacturing is a rapid prototyping process that bonds and cuts sheet material with a computer-controlled laser.</p><p id="isPasted">First developed and marketed by California-based Helisys in 1991, LOM emerged as a commercial manufacturing solution the same year Stratasys introduced fused deposition modeling (FDM). [1] Helisys became Cubic Technologies in the year 2000, but is no longer in business. Mcor Technologies, founded in 2005, was another major LOM hardware company that improved the process by adding full-color capabilities. Its assets were acquired in 2019 by Irish company CleanGreen3D, which continues to develop LOM systems. [2]</p><p id="isPasted">LOM is conceptually very different to a process like FDM. It involves bonding layers of material with an adhesive substance — creating a laminate that is much stronger than its individual layers — and laser cutting precise shapes into each layer.</p><p id="isPasted">Though more rudimentary than today’s cutting-edge additive manufacturing processes, LOM offers important benefits like cheap feedstock, colorization, and use in normal working environments such as offices.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>How does Laminated Object Manufacturing work?</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Laminated object manufacturing comprises two main steps. The first step is the lamination of sheet material; the second step is the cutting of that material with a computer-controlled laser (or cutting tool).</p><p id="isPasted">The lamination process involves layering sheets of material one on top of the next, applying pressure and heat while using an adhesive to bind each layer together. Material is typically fed onto the build platform using rollers, with adhesive applied through a nozzle. After a layer has been rolled onto the build platform, a computer-controlled laser or cutting tool slices a 2D pattern (a cross-section of the 3D part) into it. This process is repeated layer by layer. Once the final layer has been sliced, excess material can be pulled or chiseled away, leaving behind only the precisely shaped 3D part(s).</p><p><span class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="true"><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GUvnz0borAI?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-10="true" id="360474519" title="Laminated Object Manufacturing"></iframe></span><br></p><p id="isPasted">LOM can create 3D shapes because each 2D pattern sliced onto the material represents a single cross-section of the 3D shape being built. For example, a cone shape can be created by slicing a large circle into the first layer, then slicing circles of ever-decreasing size into each subsequent layer, culminating in a single point on the final layer.</p><p id="isPasted">Removal of the excess material can be simplified by “cross-hatching” areas outside of the model. By doing so, small cubes of the excess material can be pulled away, which is easier than removing large sections.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>Suitable lamination materials</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Though principally known as a paper 3D printing technology, laminated object manufacturing can process a few types of material — depending on the particular machine.</p><h3><strong id="isPasted">Paper</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">Ordinary copy paper is the most popular feedstock for LOM, and the ability to use such a low-cost material is also one of the main advantages of the technology. [3]</p><p id="isPasted">Although paper is not suitable for demanding mechanical applications, it becomes surprisingly rigid when laminated, exhibiting wood-like material properties. Incorporating hard-setting resin or other materials into the adhesive binder can further increase the solidity of the paper parts.</p><p id="isPasted">Another advantage of paper is that some LOM machines (such as the CG-1 from CleanGreen3D) can use inkjet technology to color paper at the edges where it will be cut. This enables the low-cost <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/how-to-make-a-3d-model-for-printing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">production of full-color 3D models</a>.</p><h3><strong id="isPasted">Metal</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">Some LOM hardware can process sheet metal in thin gauges. This results in a stronger laminated part, though stronger adhesive and a higher degree of heat may be required, and costs are higher than they are with paper.</p><p id="isPasted">A LOM variant called ultrasonic consolidation (UC) or ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM) deals exclusively with metals. Popularized by metal AM company Fabrisonic, the UC process creates ultrasonic vibrations to fuse the metal sheets, typically using a CNC mill rather than a laser to cut shapes in each layer. [4]</p><h3><strong id="isPasted">Plastic</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">Polymer sheets are another possibility for LOM printers. However, use of polymer sheeting instead of paper reduces the environmental friendliness of the technology.</p><h3><strong id="isPasted">Composites</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">Researchers and companies have successfully used LOM systems to print polymer-based composites reinforced with materials like carbon fibers and ceramics.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>Applications of Laminated Object Manufacturing</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Laminated object manufacturing is not a like-for-like replacement for other 3D printing techniques, but it is highly suited to a handful of applications.</p><p id="isPasted">In the area of <strong>rapid prototyping</strong>, LOM represents an affordable route to prototypes of various shapes and sizes. Though not as dimensionally accurate as other additive processes, LOM can be used to fabricate visual prototypes for business proposals, demonstrations, color matching, and other purposes. LOM systems may be appealing for companies that want to carry out in-house prototyping within an office environment.</p><p id="isPasted">The ability to colorize paper LOM parts makes the technology suitable for <strong>full-color models</strong> such as marketing props, toys, and “3D printed selfies.” Color 3D printing, which is useful for both decorative and functional objects, has historically been dominated by processes like PolyJet 3D printing from Stratasys. Some color models may have to be printed on a larger-than-usual scale due to the low level of dimensional accuracy offered by LOM.</p><p id="isPasted">Paper LOM 3D printing is an excellent means of making <strong>architectural models</strong>, which have traditionally often been made by hand from balsa wood. Laminated paper offers similar material characteristics to wood, but digital fabrication using LOM is much faster and more accurate than manual model making.</p><p id="isPasted">Manufacturers carrying out sand casting or investment casting can use LOM to make sacrificial <strong>patterns</strong>. [5] An engineer can design a 3D object using CAD software, print it in paper using LOM hardware, then build a sand mold around it. The paper pattern can then be burnt out, creating a cavity within the mold, and the casting material can be poured in.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>Pros and Cons of Laminated Object Manufacturing</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Laminated object manufacturing offers some highly desirable benefits, including affordability, a large printing envelope, and usability in offices. It also has its drawbacks, such as low accuracy and certain geometrical limitations.</p><table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><strong>Pros</strong></td><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><strong>Cons</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Paper feedstock more affordable than typical 3D printing materials</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Less dimensionally accurate than most 3D printing processes</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Machines can be operated in non-industrial environments</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Complex internal geometries difficult or impossible to achieve, since material must be manually removed</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Potential for colorization</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Few companies developing hardware; possibility of obsolescence</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Can fabricate large objects with open build area</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Hardware more expensive than FDM</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Can fabricate overhangs, since preceding layers of material act as a support</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Paper parts can absorb unwanted moisture unless carefully treated with sealant</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Can create composite laminates by alternately layering one material then another</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Few users worldwide, making it difficult to find online tips and solutions from other users</td></tr></tbody></table><h2><strong id="isPasted">Conclusion</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Laminated object manufacturing occupies its own space in the 3D printing landscape. The process provides advantages that are difficult to find elsewhere, and its ability to print 3D objects from paper makes it one of the most environmentally friendly 3D printing options.</p><p id="isPasted">Companies that need a low-cost, low-maintenance rapid prototyping solution might find LOM to be a perfect fit. The process is certainly hard to beat when it comes to making quick visual models. On the other hand, companies investing in their first 3D printer might consider LOM a riskier proposition than a process like FDM, since the overall number of hardware developers and users is low.</p><p id="isPasted">Looking forward, paper 3D printing may well remain a niche concern, but LOM-adjacent additive manufacturing technologies like ultrasonic consolidation could become powerful tools in the modern factory.</p><hr><h2><strong id="isPasted">References</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">[1] Wohlers T, Gornet T. Viewpoint: History of Additive Fabrication (Part 1). Time-Compression Technologies. (March/April 2008).</p><p>[2] About Us • CleanGreen3D [Internet]. CleanGreen3D. 2021 [cited 2021Oct25]. Available from: https://cleangreen3d.com/about-us/&nbsp;</p><p>[3] LOM (Laminated Object Manufacturing): 3D printing with layers of paper [Internet]. Sculpteo. [cited 2021Oct25]. Available from: https://www.sculpteo.com/en/glossary/lom-definition/</p><p>[4] Technology [Internet]. Fabrisonic. 2018 [cited 2021Oct25]. Available from: https://fabrisonic.com/technology/&nbsp;</p><p>[5] Chang K-H. Rapid Prototyping. In: Chang K-H, editor. e-Design. Cambridge, Massachusetts: Academic Press; 2015. p. 743–86.</p>

Laminated object manufacturing (LOM) is a unique rapid prototyping process that combines additive and subtractive elements. This article explores its characteristics, benefits, and applications.


Laminated Object Manufacturing: Creating Strength With Layers

<p id="isPasted">3D printing flexible parts can be a challenge. While technologies like injection molding can easily process liquid silicone rubber and various thermosets, 3D printing finds it more difficult to do so. Most 3D printed parts are therefore rigid.</p><p>That being said, there are several good options for 3D printing flexible parts. Stereolithography (SLA) 3D printers can print elastomeric resins, while advanced 3D printing technologies like HP’s Multi Jet Fusion can print specialized flexible materials to a very high standard. Silicone 3D printing has also shown promise in recent years — though it is still in its infancy.</p><p>But perhaps the best way to 3D print flexible parts is with thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Offering rubber-like material properties, TPU can be used with common 3D printing processes like fused deposition modeling (FDM), enabling virtually anyone to “stretch” the rules of 3D printing.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>What is TPU material?</strong></h2><p>Thermoplastic polyurethane is a type of polyurethane plastic belonging to the thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) family. It is elastic like rubber but also strong like plastic.</p><p>On a chemical level, TPU is a block copolymer made up of alternating sequences of hard segments (isocyanates) and soft segments (reacted polyol). The manufacturer determines the ratio between them; the more soft segments, the greater the material’s flexibility. [1] Due to this variability, the shore hardness of TPU can range from 60A (similar to mild silicones) to 80D (equivalent to nylons or rigid PVC). [2]</p><p>In terms of practical use, TPU offers desirable material properties like flexibility, good tensile strength, and resistance to tears and abrasions. It has emerged as one of the best materials for 3D printing flexible parts, with many applications in consumer products and industrial parts. And unlike other TPE materials, it has good thermal stability and is fairly easy to print using an FDM 3D printer.</p><p>TPU is available in different forms to suit different manufacturing technologies. In 3D printing, manufacturers have developed it as both a filament (for FDM) and a powder (for SLS).</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>TPU material properties</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">TPU offers some material properties typically found in rubbers and others typically found in plastics. Its principal advantage is its merging of the powerful properties of rubber with the workability of plastics: it is much easier to 3D print than comparable elastomeric materials.</p><p id="isPasted">The main material properties of TPU include:</p><h3><strong id="isPasted">Elasticity</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">TPU is a flexible elastomer that can behave like rubber. Though it lacks the performance of true rubber, it can bend and compress. These properties also contribute to desirable attributes such as shock resistance and vibration dampening.</p><p>The elasticity of TPU can be controlled by modifying its composition. Some TPU materials are hard, while some are much more pliable.</p><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>High elongation and tensile strength</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">In comparison to other thermoplastics in the TPE family, TPU offers high tensile strength, elongation, and tear resistance. This makes it particularly valuable in demanding industrial applications — as a material for gaskets and hoses, for example.</p><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Low-temperature performance</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">Unlike some flexible materials, TPU retains its elasticity even at low temperatures. This makes it useful for a range of temperature-specific applications, from vehicle components to winter sports products like ski boots.</p><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Abrasion resistance</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">TPU is resistant to surface damage, hence its suitability for certain consumer goods. Its abrasion resistance can be further improved when it is reinforced with glass fibers or blended with polymers like PVC.</p><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Chemical resistance</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">In addition to its resistance to abrasions, TPU is a good repeller of chemicals, especially oil and grease. Polyester TPUs are best for resisting oils, while polyether TPUs are typically used in moist environments (where the material’s hygroscopic properties must be minimized).</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>Pros and cons of TPU</strong></h2><table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><strong>Pros</strong></td><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><strong>Cons</strong></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Flexible, soft, and stretchy</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Harder to print than rigid materials</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Shock-resistant, impact-resistant, and vibration-dampening</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Must be printed at low speed (FDM)</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Abrasion-resistant</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Susceptible to stringing and clogging (FDM)</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Chemical-resistant</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Difficult to post-process (due to its abrasion resistance and chemical resistance)</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Exhibits low warpage and shrinkage</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Hygroscopic: absorbs surrounding moisture</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Available in different hardness levels</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><br></td></tr><tr><td style="width: 50.0000%;">Available in different colors</td><td style="width: 50.0000%;"><br></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>TPU applications</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">The material properties of TPU — some of which are rarely found in 3D printing materials — make it suitable for a wide range of practical uses.</p><p id="isPasted">In the <strong>industrial</strong> sector, the durability and chemical resistance of TPU contribute to its use in products like gaskets, seals, and tubing (softer TPU), as well as items like caster wheels (harder). 3D printing giant Stratasys recommends its FDM TPU 92A material for products like air ducts and vibration dampeners. [3]</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 300px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjM0NzE0MDQ0NzIxLWluZHVzdHJpYWxfc3RlZWxfQ2FzdGVyc19UUFUgKDEpLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Industrial-steel-casters"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">Industrial steel casters made of TPU material</span></p></span></span></div><p id="isPasted">TPU is also a valuable 3D printing material in the <strong>automotive</strong> industry. Manufacturers use it for printed flexible parts like air intake hoses, side moldings, and seating sections, while its color adaptability allows manufacturers to make cosmetically suitable parts for different car models.</p><p id="isPasted">Although TPU is not as medically safe as silicone, the <strong>medical</strong> sector uses thermoplastic polyurethanes in hospital beds, gel shoe orthotics, and wearable monitor devices. The material can also be used as cable insulation for medical instrument cables.</p><p id="isPasted">Many <strong>consumer products</strong> utilize TPU. The durability and soft texture of printed TPU is particularly attractive for product designers, and the material can therefore be found in items like TPU footwear and raincoats, as well as protective casings for smartphones and other electronic products. Manufacturers can also produce soft-grip handles for products like power tools or toothbrushes using TPU.</p><p id="isPasted">The <strong>sporting goods</strong> industry is another beneficiary of TPU. The low-temperature performance and abrasion resistance of the material makes it ideal for winter sports products such as ski boots and in-line skating equipment.</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>TPU 3D printing technologies</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">The main additive manufacturing technologies used to 3D print TPU are fused deposition modeling and <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/selective-laser-sintering" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">selective laser sintering</a>. These technologies differ significantly: FDM is an extrusion process that processes spools of filament; SLS is a powder bed process that sinters particles of powder.</p><p id="isPasted">FDM is more widely used than SLS in the fabrication of TPU 3D printed parts (due to its overall market dominance), but both technologies have their respective advantages.</p><p id="isPasted">Note, however, that FDM and SLS are not the only 3D printing technologies used to print flexible materials. SLA and PolyJet 3D printers, for example, can print other types of flexible 3D printing material; SLA pioneer Formlabs recommends its proprietary Elastic Resin as a suitable alternative to 50–60A TPU.</p><p id="isPasted">Additionally, TPU and other elastomers can be processed with non-additive technologies like injection molding and CNC machining.</p><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Fused deposition modeling</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">FDM is the most popular 3D printing process, largely thanks to its use in rapid prototyping and the consumer space. To print TPU with an FDM 3D printer, one can purchase TPU filament, popular varieties of which include NinjaTek NinjaFlex, Polymaker PolyFlex, and Stratasys FDM TPU 92A.</p><p>One of the major advantages of FDM TPU 3D printing is accessibility. FDM printers are affordable — far more so than SLS machines — which allows a range of non-industrial companies to fabricate TPU components.</p><div class="fr-img-space-wrap"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib fr-draggable" contenteditable="false" draggable="false" style="width: 300px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjM0NzE0MjU3NDAzLW11bHRpY29sb3JlZF9maWxhbWVudHMuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib" alt="Multicolored-filaments"><span class="fr-inner" contenteditable="true">Multicolored Filaments for 3D Printing</span></p></span></span></div><p id="isPasted">A drawback of the technology is its print quality. FDM offers lower dimensional accuracy than SLS, and printed parts can show visible layer lines on the surface. For this reason, FDM is often used for TPU prototypes or non-cosmetic parts rather than end-use products.</p><p id="isPasted">Users of FDM technology should note that the printing of TPU (and other flexible filaments) requires special attention. To successfully print the material, the following guidelines should be observed:</p><ul id="isPasted"><li><strong>Use direct drive extruders</strong>: To prevent TPU coiling up within the extruder, users should print with a direct drive extruder as opposed to a Bowden extruder.</li><li><strong>Mount the filament spool above the extruder</strong>: During FDM printing, filament is gradually unwound from the spool as it is pulled by the extruder. But since TPU is elastic, pulling it can cause it to stretch rather than unwind the spool. By mounting the spool above the extruder, gravity reduces the required pulling force.</li><li><strong>Moderate print temperature</strong>: TPU filament prints best at 224–250 °C, according to material developers like NinjaTek. [4]</li><li><strong>Slow print speed</strong>: TPU does not print well at high speeds, because it can easily compress and cause jams, leading to print failure. A feed rate of no more than 20 mm/s works best.</li><li><strong>Disable or minimize retraction</strong>: Retraction is a useful feature of FDM 3D printers designed to <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-printer-stringing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">prevent stringing</a> and unwanted material blobs. However, TPU is sensitive to fast extruder movements, and retraction — during which the nozzle pulls back excess material — can negatively affect print quality.</li><li><strong>Lower layer heights</strong>: Lower <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/3d-printer-nozzle-size" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">layer heights</a> permit slower feed rates, which lead to better TPU prints. Printing software company Simplify3D recommends layer heights in the range of 0.1–0.2 mm. [5]</li></ul><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Selective laser sintering</strong></h3><p id="isPasted">SLS is a powder bed additive manufacturing process widely used at professional and industrial levels; unlike FDM, there is no consumer market for it. <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/printing-tpu">Printing TPU</a> parts with an SLS system requires TPU powders, such as DuraForm TPU Elastomer from 3D Systems or Sinterit’s FlexaSoft.</p><p>Although less accessible and affordable than FDM, SLS offers advantages such as improved dimensional accuracy, better mechanical performance, the ability to print complex overhanging sections, powder recycling options, and freedom from support structures (also eliminating the labor-intensive post-processing step of support removal).</p><p>The high cost of SLS hardware means that companies may be more likely to order on-demand SLS TPU parts from a 3D printing service bureau like Shapeways or Sculpteo. These companies can determine the required settings for a print themselves. However, as with flexible FDM filaments, SLS powders require special considerations. Service bureau Shapeways recommends the following design guidelines for parts printed with EOS TPU 1301:</p><ul id="isPasted"><li>Minimum wall thickness of 0.7 mm</li><li>Minimum supported wire diameter of 1.0 mm</li><li>Minimum unsupported wire diameter of 2.0 mm</li><li>Minimum 1.0 mm height/width for embossed details</li><li>Minimum 1.5 mm height/width for engraved details</li><li>Use of escape holes to facilitate powder removal: minimum 4.0 mm diameter (single hole) or 3.0 mm (multiple holes)</li><li>Minimum clearance of 1.0 mm between individual parts on the print bed</li><li>Minimum sprue thickness of 1.5 mm; at least two per part [6]</li></ul><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>TPE vs TPU</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">We have looked at the properties, benefits, and applications of TPU, but what is the difference between TPU and TPE, another go-to flexible 3D printing material?</p><p>TPE, which stands for thermoplastic elastomer, is a family of flexible materials that includes thermoplastic co-polyester (TCP), thermoplastic polyamide (TPA), and — confusingly — TPU. The technical difference between TPE and TPU is therefore one of specificity: TPE is a group of several materials, while TPU is a specific material within that group.</p><p>So if TPU is simply a form of TPE, why is it that many material developers offer a direct choice between TPU and TPE 3D printing material? Unclear though it may be, this is a matter of common usage: in 3D printing, TPE tends to refer to softer, more flexible materials within the TPE spectrum, while TPU is the harder, more durable option.</p><p>TPU is a more recent addition to the 3D printing materials market, and it is more commonly used for high-performance parts due to its superior durability. TPU is also easier to print on an FDM 3D printer than soft TPE, which is more prone to clogging and stringing. Perhaps for this reason, Stratasys manufactures TPE in SLS powder form and TPU in FDM filament form. [7]</p><h2 id="isPasted"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">Thermoplastic polyurethane is a versatile material suitable for a range of flexible 3D printing applications. Although its softness poses some difficulties for 3D printing technology, its benefits — durability, impact resistance, and variable elasticity — more than make up for it.</p><p>Users of FDM 3D printers should carry out several test prints to familiarize themselves with the behavior of TPU, after which they will be capable of printing durable, shock-resistant parts with ease. Meanwhile, companies that use service bureaus instead of their own 3D printers can dive in and order TPU parts (SLS or FDM) like any other.</p><p><br></p><hr><h2><strong id="isPasted">References</strong></h2><p id="isPasted">[1] What is TPU? [Internet]. Lubrizol. [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://www.lubrizol.com/Engineered-Polymers/About/What-is-TPU&nbsp;</p><p>[2] Thermoplastic polyurethanes bridge the gap between rubber and plastics [Internet]. American Chemistry Council. 2002 [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://prod.americanchemistry.com/industry-groups/center-for-the-polyurethanes-industry-cpi/resources2/library/thermoplastic-polyurethanes-bridge-the-gap-between-rubber-and-plastics&nbsp;</p><p>[3] FDM TPU 92A: Flexible elastomer TPU 3D printing material [Internet]. Stratasys. [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://www.stratasys.com/materials/search/fdm-tpu-92a&nbsp;</p><p>[4] 3D printing with TPU [Internet]. NinjaTek. 2021 [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://ninjatek.com/learn/3d-printing-materials/tpu</p><p>[5] Flexible [Internet]. Simplify3D. 2019 [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://www.simplify3d.com/support/materials-guide/flexible</p><p>[6] TPU plastic 3D printing material information [Internet]. Shapeways. 2021 [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://www.shapeways.com/materials/tpu&nbsp;</p><p>[7] FDM TPU 92A: Flexible elastomer TPU 3D printing material [Internet]. Stratasys. [cited 2021Oct19]. Available from: https://www.stratasys.com/materials/search/fdm-tpu-92a</p>

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is one of the most practical and affordable 3D printing materials for making flexible parts. This article looks at the basics of 3D printable TPU, including its material properties, common applications, and printing technologies.

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A comparison of the two most popular filaments

PLA vs ABS: Which filament should one use?

<p>The State of 3D Printing 2020 is out! As you may know, each year, Sculpteo launches its annual survey to collect information and data about how 3D printing is used all over the world. Professionals from every sector possible answered this survey. This year we are happy to present our biggest study ever made, with once again, a lot of interesting information and insights regarding how additive manufacturing is used.&nbsp;</p><p>What will you find in this report? You will discover how 3D printing is being used by professionals, what are the main trends in the 3D printing industry, and the evolution of the market.&nbsp;</p><p>You can download our complete <a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2020/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2020</a> report for free!</p><h2><strong>The State of 3D Printing 2020: Discover our biggest study</strong></h2><p>Indeed, more than 1600 individuals answered this survey, which makes it our biggest survey in six years. The increasing number of respondents is actually allowing us to create an in-depth analysis of the additive manufacturing industry. We would like to thank all the 3D printing users who took the time to answer this survey, offering us the opportunity to create this survey with solid data.</p><p>This survey is important for us, at Sculpteo, but also for all the 3D printing industry. Indeed, this report is also important for any 3D printing companies, developing services, materials, or machines, for example. It is a new way for them to understand users’ needs. It also highlights the trends of the additive manufacturing industry and helps to see what are the main evolutions one year to another.</p><p>We hope that you will all enjoy the reading of the State of 3D Printing 2020 edition, that you will learn more about additive manufacturing and find all the information you need to improve your business strategy.</p><h2><strong>What will you find in this study?</strong></h2><h3><strong>How is 3D printing used by professionals?</strong></h3><p>The State of 3D Printing is a great overview of the additive manufacturing industry. You will learn more about 3D printing users on a professional level. Which industry making the most of this technology, what kind of companies are using additive manufacturing, and what are the roles of 3D printing users in these companies?</p><p>You will also find out how this technology is used, what are the most used technologies and materials. Additive manufacturing is shaping new business models and new strategies, this might give you some interesting insights on how to build your own strategy and how to implement 3D printing in the best way.</p><p><br></p><p><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1592231883275-State+of+3D+Printing+-+uses.jpg" style="width: 714px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p><br></p><h3><strong>How is 3D printing helping you grow your business?</strong></h3><p>You’ll get a strong analysis about the speed of innovation, complex designs, prototyping, production, tooling, and mechanical parts, and you will see where 3D printing users and businesses are finding the most interesting benefits while using this game-changing technology.</p><p><strong>How and why 3D printing users are investing in additive manufacturing?</strong></p><p>The State of 3D Printing 2020 highlights some interesting facts about how professionals and businesses are investing in 3D printing. Indeed, they are investing more and more in this technology. Aren’t you curious to discover why? Let’s see how 3D printing is becoming a real asset for companies by changing and improving their business strategy!</p><p><br></p><p><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1592231940306-State+of+3D+Printing+-+Growth.jpg" style="width: 718px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p><br></p><h3><strong>What are the limitations of 3D printing?</strong></h3><p>We will also go further a see what are the limitations of this technology, what are the aspects where 3D printing needs to improve to appeal more industries are more sectors. This year, we took a look into the future of the industry and the factors affecting its growth and adoption within businesses. Where does additive manufacturing need to improve to accelerate its adoption?&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>Six years of State of 3D Printing</strong></h3><p>This is the 6th edition of the State of 3D Printing. We’ve learned a lot of things about the use of additive manufacturing over the past years, but we also saw new trends emerging, and evolutions of 3D printing users’ habits. This report is also the perfect occasion to make a little review of what happened in the additive manufacturing world these past six years.&nbsp;</p><p>Are you ready to discover our report and get inspired? <a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2020/" target="_blank">Download your State of 3D Printing 2020</a> for free.</p><p>Don’t forget to check out our previous editions of The State of 3D Printing:</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2019/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2019</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2018/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2018</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2017/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2017</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2016/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2016</a></li><li><a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/ebooks/state-of-3d-printing-report-2015/" target="_blank">State of 3D Printing 2015</a></li></ul><p>If you have any questions about 3D printing, or about this study, don’t hesitate to <a href="https://www.sculpteo.com/en/contact/" target="_blank">contact us</a>.</p>

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