All of our materials explained clearly

TPU - What is it?

Thermoplastic Polyurethane, commonly known as TPU, is a unique type of plastic that combines the best features of rubber and plastic. TPU is a thermoplastic elastomer, meaning that it has elastic properties and can be molded into various shapes and sizes. It is a versatile material that finds application in a wide range of industries, including automotive, medical, electronics, and consumer products.

One of the most notable features of TPU is its elasticity, which is an essential property for materials used in making products such as phone cases, watch bands, and shoe soles. TPU can be stretched up to 5 times its original length without breaking, and it returns to its original shape after the force is removed. This property makes TPU an ideal material for products that need to be durable, flexible, and long-lasting.

TPU is also resistant to oils, greases, and abrasions, making it suitable for use in the automotive industry. Car manufacturers use TPU in making interior parts such as door handles, gear shift knobs, and dashboard panels. The material is also used in making airbag covers, gaskets, and seals, as it can withstand high temperatures and pressure.

In the medical industry, TPU is used in making catheters, tubing, and other medical devices due to its biocompatibility and resistance to various chemicals. The material is also resistant to bacteria and fungi, making it an excellent choice for products that need to maintain high levels of hygiene.

TPU is also commonly used in the manufacturing of 3D printing filaments. The material is easy to print and has excellent layer adhesion, making it an excellent choice for printing flexible and durable objects.

In conclusion, TPU is a versatile material with a wide range of applications due to its unique properties. Its elasticity, durability, and resistance to oils, greases, and chemicals make it an excellent choice for use in various industries, from consumer products to automotive and medical devices. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that TPU will become even more widely used in new applications, and its versatility will continue to make it a popular material in manufacturing.

rPETG is a material that has gained popularity in recent years due to its sustainability and durability.

It is a type of plastic that is made from recycled PET, which is a common plastic used in water bottles, food packaging, and other consumer goods.

One of the main benefits of rPETG is that it is an environmentally friendly option. By using recycled materials, it reduces the amount of waste in landfills and helps to conserve natural resources. It also has a lower carbon footprint compared to other plastics, as the production process uses less energy and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition to being sustainable, rPETG is also a very strong and durable material. It has excellent impact resistance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications such as packaging, signage, and even automotive parts. It is also resistant to chemicals, UV light, and moisture, making it a good choice for outdoor applications.

rPETG is also very easy to process, which makes it a popular choice for manufacturers. It can be easily injection molded, extruded, and thermoformed, allowing for a wide range of shapes and sizes to be produced.

However, it is important to note that not all rPETG is created equal. The quality of the recycled material can vary, which can impact the overall strength and durability of the final product. It is important to source rPETG from a reputable supplier to ensure that it meets the required quality standards.

Overall, rPETG is a sustainable and durable material that has a wide range of applications. As more companies look for environmentally friendly options, it is likely that rPETG will continue to gain popularity as a material of choice.

rPLA: What You Need to Know

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in environmentally friendly materials for 3D printing. One such material that has gained attention is rPLA, a type of PLA filament made from recycled plastic. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what rPLA is and what makes it a popular choice for eco-conscious makers and manufacturers.

What is rPLA?

rPLA stands for recycled polylactic acid, a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is a popular filament material for 3D printing due to its ease of use and ability to produce high-quality prints. However, rPLA takes the sustainability factor one step further by incorporating recycled plastic into the mix.

rPLA is typically made from a blend of post-consumer recycled plastic, which is collected and sorted to remove contaminants before being processed into new filament. The exact ratio of recycled plastic to virgin PLA can vary depending on the manufacturer and specific product, but in general, rPLA is made up of around 30-50% recycled content.

Benefits of rPLA

There are several benefits to using rPLA over traditional PLA or other materials:

Environmentally friendly: The use of recycled plastic in rPLA reduces the amount of waste that would otherwise end up in landfills or the ocean. Plus, PLA is biodegradable, meaning it will break down over time and won't contribute to the plastic pollution problem.

Easy to print: rPLA has similar printing properties to traditional PLA, making it easy to use for those familiar with PLA. It has a low melting temperature, making it compatible with a wide range of 3D printers.

High-quality prints: rPLA produces high-quality prints with good detail and surface finish, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Cost-effective: While rPLA may be slightly more expensive than traditional PLA, it is still an affordable option compared to some other eco-friendly materials like biodegradable PET.

Applications for rPLA

rPLA can be used for a wide range of 3D printing applications, including:

Prototyping: rPLA's ease of use and ability to produce high-quality prints make it a great choice for prototyping and product development.

Artistic projects: The ability to produce high-quality prints with good surface finish makes rPLA a popular choice for artistic and decorative projects.

Education: rPLA's low melting temperature and ease of use make it a popular choice for educational settings and for teaching the basics of 3D printing.

In conclusion, rPLA is a great option for eco-conscious makers and manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental footprint while still producing high-quality prints. Its ease of use, affordability, and range of applications make it a popular choice in the 3D printing community.