Sometimes the best way to learn a new thing is to use it in a new project.
This little project was a short and successful foray into the world of printing TPU flexible on a stock* Ender 3 Pro.
*This in reference to a Bowden type extruder. In the interests of openness and honesty the printer has been upgraded with a metal extruder, Capricorn tube & yellow bed springs.
Due to the odd shape of the walls in our upper floor, the roller blinds over the window let in a lot of light. This project was to create a simple magnetic clip to retain a blind against a wall to prevent light leaking around the side.
The flexible TPU filament is perfect for this application and the total print time was circa 15mins.
the settings that were used:
- Nozzle temp = 230 oC
- Bed temp = OFF / 0 oC (keep the work area cool)
- Print speed = 20 mm/s
- Part cooling = low for first couple of layers, then high.
- Retraction = OFF (yes, you will get stringing, but a stringy print is better than a failed print)
- Your settings may vary depending on many factors.
Tips and Notes:
- Any retraction movements will cause the extruder gear to create teeth marks in the filament. These marks lead to greater amounts of friction within the Bowden tube and this has a higher chance of jamming.
- The material is soft, so ease off the pressure on the extruder idler.
- Some people note that the bed should be 30 oC, however, I think this warms the filament and makes it softer. That could be superstition.
- A legit Capricorn tube from Creality will help – the inner bore is greater precision with a smoother surface.
Best of luck!
