Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber vs TPU
Compare Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber and TPU filaments side-by-side so you can pick the right one for your 3D printing project.
Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber vs TPU: Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber is known for massively stiffer/tougher/more heat & abrasion resistant than nylon, while TPU is known for excellent layer adhesion. Choose Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber for massively stiffer/tougher/more heat & abrasion resistant than nylon, or TPU for excellent layer adhesion.
Key differences at a glance
Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber
-Massively stiffer/tougher/more heat & abrasion resistant than nylon
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Excellent layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; highly durable
Detailed Comparison
Green marks the generally easier or more forgiving option in that row, based on tier, enclosure needs, and moisture sensitivity. It is not always the better choice for a specific job, so weigh it against what your project actually needs.
Strengths Comparison
Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber Strengths
- Massively stiffer/tougher/more heat & abrasion resistant than nylon
- Warping reduced enough to be fairly easy to print (with correct setup)
- Viable alternative to machined aluminum for some parts
TPU Strengths
- Excellent layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; highly durable
- Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
- Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)
Considerations
Prusament PA11 Carbon Fiber Caveats
- Higher print temps; hardware wear if not equipped
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly