Blog circa Bigrep Launches Industrialgrade TPU 98A 3D Printing Filament

Imagine designing a component for harsh industrial environments—one that must withstand high temperatures, resist corrosion, and demonstrate exceptional impact resistance. Traditional 3D printing materials often fall short of these demanding requirements. Is there a material that combines rubber-like flexibility with engineering plastic-level strength?

The answer is BigRep TPU 98A industrial-grade flexible filament. This material sets new standards for 3D printing performance, offering an ideal solution for creative engineering designs.

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) belongs to the thermoplastic elastomer family, combining rubber-like elasticity with plastic-like strength. With a Shore hardness of 98A, BigRep TPU 98A is significantly harder than typical flexible materials, enabling it to withstand greater pressure and impact. Beyond its mechanical properties, it offers excellent temperature resistance and chemical stability, making it ideal for demanding industrial applications.

BigRep TPU 98A stands out through its exceptional combination of properties across three key dimensions:

• Exceptional Impact Resistance: In Charpy notched impact tests, TPU 98A demonstrates "no break" performance, absorbing significant impact energy without fracturing—crucial for applications like protective casings and shock absorbers.
• High Tear Resistance: With tear strength reaching 175 kN/m, the material maintains structural integrity even when subjected to sharp objects, ideal for seals and hoses.
• Remarkable Elongation: A 450% elongation at break allows the material to stretch to 4.5 times its original length before fracturing, providing outstanding fatigue resistance for components undergoing repeated bending.

• High-Temperature Resistance: Withstanding temperatures up to 100°C (Vicat softening point: 105°C) and continuous use at 50°C, TPU 98A maintains its properties in heated environments, suitable for engine components and high-temperature piping.

• Chemical Stability: The material resists degradation from oils, greases, and other industrial chemicals, making it perfect for seals and corrosion-resistant components in harsh environments.

• 3D Printed Tires: The material has been used to create airless tires for electric motorcycles, featuring a honeycomb structure that combines stability with flexibility.
• Industrial Seals: Its chemical resistance and tear strength make it perfect for durable, leak-proof seals.
• Protective Components: The material's impact absorption properties suit it for protective casings and shock-absorbing pads.

• Nozzle Temperature: 210-240°C
• Bed Temperature: 50-60°C
• Drying Recommended: 80°C for 4-6 hours before printing

BigRep TPU 98A represents a significant advancement in industrial-grade 3D printing materials, combining flexibility with durability for demanding applications. Its mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance make it a versatile solution for engineers and designers working in challenging environments.