SUNLU TPU 3D Printer Filament: Flexible Performance at an Unbeatable Price

The SUNLU TPU 3D Printer Filament is a flexible thermoplastic polyurethane option that stands out for its high-speed printing capabilities and impressive dimensional accuracy. Priced at £16.99, it’s currently 18.2% below the average price of £20.77, making it an attractive option for both hobbyists and professionals alike. With a solid rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 1,682 reviews, you can expect a reliable product that delivers on quality.

When you unbox the SUNLU TPU filament, the first thing you notice is its vibrant green colour and sturdy packaging. The spool is well-constructed, ensuring that the filament doesn’t tangle easily during use. TPU filaments are known for their flexibility, and the SUNLU variant, with a Shore hardness of 95A, strikes an ideal balance between softness and rigidity. This makes it suitable for various applications, including keyrings, phone cases, and other items that require a bit of give.

One of the key features of the SUNLU TPU filament is its ability to print at speeds up to three times faster than standard TPU filaments, thanks to its specially formulated composition. Recommended settings suggest a nozzle temperature of 210-230°C and a bed temperature of 50-60°C, with a printing speed of 80-120mm/s, allowing for quicker projects without sacrificing quality. The filament’s dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.03mm contributes to its versatility across different FDM 3D printers, making it widely compatible.

Performance-wise, the filament lives up to the hype. Users have reported excellent layer adhesion, which is crucial for maintaining structural integrity in flexible prints. Additionally, the wear and oil resistance properties of the SUNLU TPU make it a durable choice, especially for functional parts.

Value for money is a strong point here. At £16.99, you’re paying less than what many competitors offer for similar specifications. For instance, OVERTURE’s TPU filament is priced at £17.99 with slightly better dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02mm, but lacks the high-speed printing capability of the SUNLU model. Another SUNLU variant in black retails for £18.99, making the green option an enticing deal.

However, it’s important to note that TPU filaments can be finicky. While the SUNLU filament is marketed as easy to print, some users experienced issues with stringing and oozing, particularly at higher speeds. This is a common trait among flexible filaments, so expect a bit of fine-tuning with your slicer settings.

In summary, the SUNLU TPU 3D Printer Filament offers an impressive combination of flexibility, speed, and affordability. It’s ideal for users looking to create functional parts or prototypes that require a bit of give. However, those unfamiliar with TPU or expecting a plug-and-play experience may need to prepare for some adjustments in their settings.