POM vs TPU
Compare POM and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
POM
FAcetal / Delrin / Polyoxymethylene
Very low friction, stiff, easy to machine (in CNC contexts)
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
POM
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier F
Tier S
Family
POM
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
220-260°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
90-120°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
required
not needed
Cooling
Low cooling
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
low
high
Strengths Comparison
POM Strengths
- Very low friction, stiff, easy to machine (in CNC contexts)
- Low friction, wear parts, gears, bushings
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
POM Caveats
- Near-zero bed adhesion; requires mechanical anchoring to bed surface
- Layer splitting; needs heated enclosure and very slow printing
- Heat decomposition can release formaldehyde (high hazard)
- Often outclassed by nylon for printable low-friction parts
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 POM or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to POM (Tier F). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: POM is best for Very low friction, stiff, easy to machine (in CNC contexts), while TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between POM and TPU?
POM prints at 220-260°C nozzle / 90-120°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do POM and TPU need an enclosure?
POM: required. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: POM or TPU?
TPU is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.