3D People expands its range of services: New TPU01 material for 3D printing

UK-based 3D People, known for its on-demand additive manufacturing services, has added Ultrasint TPU01 to its material portfolio. This elastomeric material has been developed specifically for HP’s MultiJet Fusion (MJF) process and offers outstanding flexibility and quality to meet the demands of end-use applications.

According to Felix Manley, Co-Founder of 3D People: “Flexibility is the key to the TPU01 material, and in more than one way. The material itself is the most advanced elastomeric material, developed specifically for the MultiJet Fusion (MJF) AM system from HP, and as a result it produces the highest quality, flexible parts. Introducing this material also provides more flexibility for our customers, a significant number of whom have been asking for it. Now they can get their PA12 Nylon and TPU parts from the same partner, with quality assured.”

3D People has extensive experience in the use of MJF technology. All of the company’s technicians have completed HP’s intensive “Train to Maintain” program, which contributes to optimized machine performance and a consistently high quality of the parts produced. TPU01 is particularly suitable for applications where flexibility and durability are required.

Sasha Bruml, Co-founder of 3D People explains: “It is well known, that one of the headline benefits of AM is the ability to produce complex geometries — such as lattices — efficiently and cost-effectively. Combine that capability with this material and we are able to offer a distinct advantage for our customers who are looking to fine-tune the hardness, flexibility, and shock absorption of their applications. We are seeing some highly customisable solutions that outperform traditional elastomeric materials as a result. It’s exciting.”

Another advantage of TPU01 is the possibility of smooth surface processing through vapor smoothing. While other elastomeric materials often have difficulties with surface finishing, TPU01 is particularly suitable for this process. This not only improves the aesthetic properties, but also increases water impermeability and reduces the risk of cracking. This brings the performance properties closer to those of molded polyurethane parts.

The MJF process also offers cost advantages over SLS technology. As a result, TPU01 parts can be produced at comparable prices to PA12 parts, making series production more efficient and economical for customers. To meet the increased demand, 3D People has introduced dedicated production planning for TPU01, ensuring fast delivery times without compromising quality.

In addition, 3D People has developed detailed design guidelines to help customers get the most out of TPU01. These guidelines help to refine lattice structures and improve durability and flexibility, resulting in better overall performance of 3D printed parts.