PEI 9085 vs TPU
Compare PEI 9085 and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
PEI 9085
AUltem 9085
Very strong, stable, and safe superpolymer; low thermal expansion enables good dimensional accuracy
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
PEI 9085
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier S
Family
PEI
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
350-400°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
120-160°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
required
not needed
Cooling
Minimal
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
high
Strengths Comparison
PEI 9085 Strengths
- Very strong, stable, and safe superpolymer; low thermal expansion enables good dimensional accuracy
- Once setup is met, prints relatively friendly
TPU Strengths
- Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
- Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
- Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)
Considerations
PEI 9085 Caveats
- Setup requirements too extreme for S tier
- Cannot print on PEI-coated plate repeatedly (bonding/plate damage risk)
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PEI 9085 or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to PEI 9085 (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: PEI 9085 is best for Very strong, stable, and safe superpolymer; low thermal expansion enables good dimensional accuracy, while TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between PEI 9085 and TPU?
PEI 9085 prints at 350-400°C nozzle / 120-160°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do PEI 9085 and TPU need an enclosure?
PEI 9085: required. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PEI 9085 or TPU?
TPU is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.