{"id":22120,"date":"2023-12-11T12:24:43","date_gmt":"2023-12-11T12:24:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/articles\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\/"},"modified":"2025-09-23T14:46:46","modified_gmt":"2025-09-23T12:46:46","slug":"3d-printing-flexible-materials","status":"publish","type":"articles","link":"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/articles\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Flexible Materials in 3D Printing"},"content":{"rendered":"<div role=\"navigation\" aria-label=\"Table of Contents\" class=\"simpletoc wp-block-simpletoc-toc\"><h2 class=\"simpletoc-title\">Table of Contents<\/h2>\n<ul class=\"simpletoc-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#shore-hardness-indicators-of-different-3d-printing-materials\">Shore Hardness Indicators of Different 3D Printing Materials<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#flexible-3d-printing-materials-available-at-xometry\">Flexible 3D Printing Materials Available at Xometry<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#h-thermoplastic-polyurethane-tpu\">Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)<\/a>\n\n\n<\/li>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n<\/li>\n\n<\/li>\n\n<\/li>\n\n<li><a href=\"#silicone-rubber-flexible-materials\">Silicone Rubber Flexible Materials<\/a>\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#flexible-clip-resins\">Flexible CLIP Resins<\/a>\n\n\n<\/li>\n\n<\/li>\n\n<li><a href=\"#h-flexible-materials-cost-comparison\">Flexible Materials Cost Comparison<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n<p>3D printing offers great possibilities and many varieties when it comes to printing flexible and rubber-like material. From production parts for industrial applications to innovative and cool projects for hobbyists, this is something to check out.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let us take a look at the options of flexible materials for 3D printing technologies available at Xometry.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"shore-hardness-indicators-of-different-3d-printing-materials\"><strong>Shore Hardness Indicators of Different 3D Printing Materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>When it comes to flexible materials, shore hardness is one of the main properties to look out for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The shore hardness scales were created to provide a common reference point when comparing different materials. It is measured using a durometer gauge. There are different shore hardness scales for measuring the hardness of different materials for 3D printing:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shore OO<\/strong> scale measures extremely soft materials like gels (e.g. gel insoles)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shore A<\/strong> scale measures a wide range of material types, from very soft and flexible to semi-rigid polymers with almost no flexibility at all&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shore D<\/strong> scale measures very hard rubbers, semi-rigid and rigid polymers (e.g. PVC pipe)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"4096\" height=\"2304\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-22751\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness.png 4096w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness-2048x1152.png 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 4096px) 100vw, 4096px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness.png\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"Shore hardness comparison of different flexible 3D printing options\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/EN-shore-hardness.png\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Shore hardness comparison of different flexible 3D printing options<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As you can see from the image, there is an overlap on the different scales. For example, a material with a Shore hardness of 95A is also a Shore 50D.<\/p>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"flexible-3d-printing-materials-available-at-xometry\"><strong>Flexible 3D Printing Materials Available at Xometry<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Different 3D printing technologies require different polymers, resins or other flexible materials to print. Let us see what print material each technology requires and its properties in detail.<\/p>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/topic\/mjf-or-carbon-dls-for-flexible-tpu-parts\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/community-icon-1.svg\" alt=\"\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/topic\/mjf-or-carbon-dls-for-flexible-tpu-parts\/\" class=\"aside-link\">MJF or carbon DLS for flexible TPU parts?<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-thermoplastic-polyurethane-tpu\"><strong>Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>TPU materials belong to the Thermoplastic Elastomers category. TPEs are a versatile and popular material for 3D printing applications, offering users a range of benefits, including flexibility, durability, and ease of processing.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flexible-tpu.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18590\" style=\"max-width:453px;height:auto\"\/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flexible-tpu.gif\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flexible-tpu.gif\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"tpu-polyurethane\"><strong>TPU Polyurethane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>Commonly known as Ultrasint\u2122 TPU 01 is a multi-purpose material for application exclusively in Multi Jet Fusion (MJF). This flexible material is a thermoplastic urethane, with flexibility, high tear strength and offers good details. Thermoplastic polyurethane for 3D printing offers unique possibilities that are otherwise tough to achieve with other 3D printing materials like ABS, PLA or Nylon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Combining the properties of both plastic and rubber, TPU can produce parts with good flexibility and shock absorption, with a high level of detail. The material exhibits stiff rubber-like qualities \u2013 much like a skateboard wheel \u2013 allowing for a range of end-use applications. In addition, the material is easy to print and has good UV and hydrolysis resistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Key features<\/strong>: Semi-flexible \u2022 Resistance to chemicals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Applications<\/strong>: Automotive instrument panels, medical devices, power tools\u2026<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/TPU-Polyurethane.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download data sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"820\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing-1024x820.webp\" alt=\"Thermoplastic polyurethane part manufactured with MJF 3D printing\" class=\"wp-image-18602\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing-1024x820.webp 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing-300x240.webp 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing-768x615.webp 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing.webp 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing.webp\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"Thermoplastic polyurethane part manufactured with MJF 3D printing\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Thermoplastic-polyurethane-part-manufactured-with-MJF-3D-printing.webp\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Thermoplastic polyurethane part manufactured with MJF 3D printing<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/topic\/tpu-with-mjf-3d-printer\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/community-icon-1.svg\" alt=\"\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/topic\/tpu-with-mjf-3d-printer\/\" class=\"aside-link\">TPU with MJF 3D printer<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"flex-tpu\"><strong>Flex TPU<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>If you require a rubbery and flexible material, Flex TPU for Selective laser sintering (SLS) is the perfect option. With good resilience after deformation and high Ultraviolet (UV) stability, this elastomeric SLS TPU offers many advantages.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By creating an interesting structural design, parts can be 3D printed for various industrial applications, from automotive to footwear industries. The material gives a smooth white surface and also offers good hydrolysis resistance, great shock absorption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Key features<\/strong>: Great elasticity \u00b7 High strength \u00b7 Resistant to chemicals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Applications<\/strong>: Automotive, footwear end-us products like running shoes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Flex-TPU.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download data sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flex-tpu.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18669\"\/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flex-tpu.gif\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flex-tpu.gif\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>TPU flexible materials can be also used with FDM printing, but usually, such 3D prints are of lower quality than when printed using powder-based technologies like SLS or MJF, moreover, they almost don\u2019t differ in price.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"properties-of-tpu\"><strong>Properties of TPU<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>There are a few exclusive key properties of TPU materials which benefit the industries.<\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"abrasionscratch-resistance\"><strong>Abrasion\/Scratch resistance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>High abrasion and scratch resistance means durability and high aesthetic value. A TPU material gives excellent results compared to other thermoplastic elastomers when abrasion and scratch resistance are critical for an application like automotive interior parts, sports and technical parts.<\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"uv-resistance\"><strong>UV Resistance<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>Apart from maintaining good mechanical properties, these flexible materials also show extraordinary stability to ultraviolet radiation and thus superior colour stability. For both light &amp; dark colour parts, industries can rely on TPU\u2019s high scratch resistance &amp; UV performance as TPUs ensure colour fastness to the aesthetic parts.<\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"high-flexibility\"><strong>High flexibility<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<p>TPU materials offer high flexibility, shock absorption and rebound and are excellent choices for making footwear, sports equipment and orthopaedic models. This property is very helpful when it comes to automotive interiors and air filter covers.<\/p>\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"other-advantages\"><strong>Other Advantages<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Good elasticity over a wide temperature range<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Excellent low-temperature and impact strength<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Robust weather and high-energy radiation resistance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Great elasticity across the entire hardness range<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resilience to oils, greases and numerous solvents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"silicone-rubber-flexible-materials\"><strong>Silicone Rubber Flexible Materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Silicone rubber is a type of elastomer that is known for its flexibility and durability. These properties make it a suitable material for use in 3D printing, particularly in applications where the printed object needs to be flexible and able to withstand high temperatures and harsh environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the advantages of using silicone rubber in 3D printing is that it has a wide range of Shore hardness values, so it can be tailored to have the specific level of flexibility and high durability required for a particular application. It also has good thermal resistance and a high level of chemical resistance, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Silicone rubber is also suitable for creating flexible and stretchable objects, such as seals and gaskets, as well as for prototyping and small-scale production of flexible parts with very good print quality.<\/p>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/topic\/sla-printing-is-manufacturing-a-large-soft-robot-possible\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/community-icon-1.svg\" alt=\"\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/topic\/sla-printing-is-manufacturing-a-large-soft-robot-possible\/\" class=\"aside-link\">SLA Printing: Is manufacturing a large soft robot possible?<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"true-silicone\"><strong>True Silicone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>True Silicone has a high resolution, an excellent surface finish, and is resistant to acids, bases and non-polar solvents. It has high wear resistance, elasticity and high reproducibility after deformation or loading. It\u2019s biocompatible and certified in accordance with ISO 10993. This material is suitable for small-sized parts printed in stereolithography (SLA).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Key features<\/strong>: High wear resistance \u2022 Elasticity \u2022 High resolution<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Applications<\/strong>: Prosthetics, wearables, sealing elements, gaskets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/True-Silicone.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download data sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/true-silicone-2.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18681\"\/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/true-silicone-2.gif\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/true-silicone-2.gif\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"338\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/true-silicone.gif\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-18693\"\/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/true-silicone.gif\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/true-silicone.gif\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"flexible-clip-resins\"><strong>Flexible CLIP Resins<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>CLIP resins are a class of high-quality resins used with Carbon DLS additive manufacturing technology. At Xometry, we offer three types of flexible CLIP resins.<\/p>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"epu-40-elastomeric-polyurethane\"><strong>EPU 40 (Elastomeric Polyurethane)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>EPU 40 is a high-performance polyurethane elastomer that is a good choice for applications where high elasticity and tear resistance are needed. Elastomeric Polyurethane CLIP Resin, due to its high performance allows excellent elastic behaviour under cyclic tensile and compressive loads. You can stretch it and bend it, it takes back its original printed shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>EPU 40 is comparable to commercial TPUs with a Shore hardness of 70A. EPU resin is rubbery, resistant, flexible and stretchable, with a layer thickness of 100 \u00b5m or 0.1 mm which are almost invisible. Parts are then very close to injection moulded models, which makes it very interesting for prototyping.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Key Features<\/strong>: Highly elastic, tear resistant, chemical and bio compatibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Applications<\/strong>: Gaskets and seals, shock absorbers, vibration isolators<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/EPU-40.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download data sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"250\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-EPU-40.webp\" alt=\"3D printed part with EPU 40\" class=\"wp-image-18614\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-EPU-40.webp 800w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-EPU-40-300x94.webp 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-EPU-40-768x240.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-EPU-40.webp\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"3D printed part with EPU 40 (Source: Carbon3D)\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-EPU-40.webp\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">3D printed part with EPU 40 (Source: Carbon3D)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fpu-50-flexible-polyurethane\"><strong>FPU 50 (Flexible Polyurethane)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>FPU 50 is an impact, abrasion and fatigue resistant semi-rigid material that is a good choice for parts that must withstand repetitive stresses. This material can be ideal for tough enclosures, hinging mechanisms, and friction fits.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>FPU is comparable to PP (Polypropylene) for its excellent fatigue and heat resistance. Features as thin as 0.25 mm can be 3D printed and it is not rubbery and elastic like EPU 40, but it has an elongation at break of 200%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Key Features<\/strong>: Tough and fatigue resistant, high tensile strength, high impact and yield strength<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Applications<\/strong>: Snap fits, strain reliefs, mounts and brackets to encapsulate small electric circuits<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/FPU-50.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download data sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"852\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50-1024x852.webp\" alt=\"3D printed part with FPU 50\" class=\"wp-image-18626\" style=\"max-width:615px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50-1024x852.webp 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50-300x250.webp 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50-768x639.webp 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50.webp\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"3D printed part with FPU 50 (Source: Carbon3D)\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-FPU-50.webp\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">3D printed part with FPU 50 (Source: Carbon3D)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"sil-30-silicone\"><strong>SIL 30 (Silicone)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n<p>SIL, a silicon-urethane material is comparable to commercial TPEs with a Shore A hardness of 35. CLIP technology enables 3D printing with novel classes of polymers, including complex chemistries such as polyurethane and cyanate ester-based resins. The result is a diverse and growing selection of materials reflecting common engineering requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Key features<\/strong>: Soft touch, biocompatible, tear resistant<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Applications<\/strong>: Wearable (Wrist bands, headphone pads), medical equipment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/Sil-30.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download data sheet<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><div class=\"wp-block-image__wrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"852\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30-1024x852.webp\" alt=\"3D printed part with SIL 30\" class=\"wp-image-18638\" style=\"max-width:676px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30-1024x852.webp 1024w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30-300x250.webp 300w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30-768x639.webp 768w, https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><a class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30.webp\" data-fancybox=\"gallery-22120\" data-caption=\"3D printed part with SIL 30 (Source: Carbon3D)\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"><img src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/3D-printed-part-with-SIL-30.webp\" class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"><svg class=\"wp-block-image__fancy-box-button-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" viewBox=\"0 0 18 18\" fill=\"none\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\r\n               <path d=\"M0 2V6H2V2H6V0H2C0.895 0 0 0.895 0 2ZM2 12H0V16C0 17.105 0.895 18 2 18H6V16H2V12ZM16 16H12V18H16C17.105 18 18 17.105 18 16V12H16V16ZM16 0H12V2H16V6H18V2C18 0.895 17.105 0 16 0Z\" fill=\"#092C47\"\/>\r\n             <\/svg><\/a><\/div><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">3D printed part with SIL 30 (Source: Carbon3D)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>All of these CLIP resins are suitable for long-term (&gt;30 days) skin contact. Similarly, all can be used for short-term (&lt;24 hours) mucosal contact except EPU 40, which is suitable for skin contact only. Hence, they find their way into printing safe materials in the medical industry as well.<\/p>\n\n\n    <aside class=\"article-content-aside\">\r\n        <div class=\"aside-title\">3D Printing Materials for the Medical Industry<\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/articles\/3d-printing-medical-industry\/\" class=\"aside-image sidebar__aside-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Medical-3D-printing.jpeg\" alt=\"Medical 3D printing\"><\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/articles\/3d-printing-medical-industry\/\" class=\"aside-link\">3D Printing Materials for the Medical Industry<\/a>    <\/aside>\r\n    \n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-flexible-materials-cost-comparison\"><strong>Flexible Materials Cost Comparison<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s have a comparison of the different flexible materials in Xometry\u2019s Instant Quoting Engine:<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"custom-table-block \" id=\"table-id-705\" >\r\n\t<div class=\"search-input-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<svg width=\"16\" height=\"16\" viewBox=\"0 0 16 16\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\r\n\t\t\t<path d=\"M15.7812 13.833L12.6659 10.7177C12.5252 10.5771 12.3346 10.499 12.1347 10.499H11.6253C12.4877 9.39596 13.0002 8.00859 13.0002 6.49937C13.0002 2.90909 10.0911 0 6.50083 0C2.91056 0 0.00146484 2.90909 0.00146484 6.49937C0.00146484 10.0896 2.91056 12.9987 6.50083 12.9987C8.01006 12.9987 9.39742 12.4863 10.5004 11.6239V12.1332C10.5004 12.3332 10.5786 12.5238 10.7192 12.6644L13.8345 15.7797C14.1282 16.0734 14.6032 16.0734 14.8938 15.7797L15.778 14.8954C16.0718 14.6017 16.0718 14.1267 15.7812 13.833ZM6.50083 10.499C4.29167 10.499 2.50122 8.71165 2.50122 6.49937C2.50122 4.29021 4.28855 2.49976 6.50083 2.49976C8.70999 2.49976 10.5004 4.28708 10.5004 6.49937C10.5004 8.70852 8.71311 10.499 6.50083 10.499Z\" fill=\"#476175\"\/>\r\n\t\t<\/svg>\r\n\t\t<input type=\"search\" class=\"table-search-input\" id=\"table-search-705\" placeholder=\"Table search\">\r\n\t<\/div>\t\r\n\t<div class=\"table-wrapper\">\r\n\t\t<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 192px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 48px;\">\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%; height: 48px;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"0><strong data-rich-text-format-boundary=\"true\">Flexible materials<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%; height: 48px;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"1><strong>3D printing technology<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%; height: 48px;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"2><strong>Shore hardness<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%; height: 48px;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"3><strong>Tensile strength<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%; height: 48px;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"4><strong>Elongation at break<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"5><strong data-rich-text-format-boundary=\"true\">TPU Polyurethane<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"6>MJF<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"7>95 Shore A<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"8>8.6 MPa<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"9>580%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"00><strong>Flex TPU<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"11>SLS<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"22>85 &#8211; 90 Shore A<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"33>7 MPa<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"44>250%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"55><strong>True Silicone<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"66>SLA<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"77>50 Shore A<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"88>7.25 N\/mm\u00b2<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"99>530%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"00><strong>EPU 40<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"11>Carbon DLS<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"22>70 Shore A<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"33>19 MPa<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"44>400%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"55><strong>FPU 50<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"66>Carbon DLS<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"77>71 Shore D<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"88>25 MPa<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"99>200%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"00><strong>SIL 30<\/strong><\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"11>Carbon DLS<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"22>35 Shore A<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"33>3.5 MPa<\/td>\n<td class=\"block-editor-rich-text__editable wp-block-table__cell-content rich-text\" style=\"width: 19.9742%;\" role=\"textbox\" contenteditable=\"true\" aria-multiline=\"true\" aria-label=\"Open full image\"44>350%<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\t<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<style>\r\n\t.custom-table-block table{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper{\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 24px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.search-input-wrapper svg{\r\n\t\tposition: absolute;\r\n\t\ttop:50%;\r\n\t\tleft:12px;\r\n\t\ttransform: translateY(-50%);\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input{\r\n\t\tpadding: 0 0 0 40px;\r\n\t\tborder:1px solid #C1CAD1;\r\n\t\theight: 44px;\r\n\t\twidth: 201px;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.table-search-input::placeholder{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\twhite-space:nowrap;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead{\r\n\t\tmargin-bottom: 14px;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody tr:nth-child(odd){\r\n\t\tbackground-color: #F6F9FF;\r\n\t}\r\n\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody, .custom-table-block thead, .custom-table-block tr, .custom-table-block td, .custom-table-block th{\r\n\t\theight: initial!important;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 400;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tpadding: 7px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th{\r\n\t\tfont-family: Open Sans;\r\n\t\tfont-size: 16px;\r\n\t\tfont-weight: 700;\r\n\t\tline-height: 24px;\r\n\t\tletter-spacing: 0em;\r\n\t\ttext-align: left;\r\n\t\tcolor:#092C47;\r\n\t\tposition: relative;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block thead th:after{\r\n\t\tcontent:\"\";\r\n\t\tdisplay: inline-block;\r\n\t\tbackground-image: url(\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg width='12' height='8' viewBox='0 0 12 8' fill='none' xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%3E%3Cpath d='M10.585 0.585938L6 5.17094L1.415 0.585938L0 2.00094L6 8.00094L12 2.00094L10.585 0.585938Z' fill='%23476175'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E%0A\");\r\n\t\tmargin-left: 8px;\r\n\t\tbackground-position: center center;\r\n\t\tbackground-size: 12px 7.5px;\r\n\t\tbackground-repeat: no-repeat;\r\n\t\twidth: 24px;\r\n\t\theight: 12px;\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block{\r\n\t\tmargin: 20px 0;\t\r\n\t}\r\n\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\twidth: 100%;\r\n\t\toverflow-x: auto;\r\n\t}\r\n\t@media(max-width: 768px){\r\n\t\t\/* .custom-table-block tbody td{\r\n\t\t\twhite-space: nowrap;\r\n\t\t} *\/\r\n\t\t.custom-table-block .table-wrapper{\r\n\t\t\tmax-width: calc(100vw - 16px);\r\n\t\t}\r\n\t}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"conclusion\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<p>There are three main types of flexible materials for 3D printing available on the mass market with different print quality: TPU materials, CLIP resins and silicone rubbers. If you\u2019re looking for more affordable parts, TPU materials are the perfect fit, while you can go for more expensive CLIP resins if you require advanced material properties like high strength or tear resistance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Xometry offers 3D printing services with flexible materials for rapid prototyping and various industrial applications. Upload your CAD files and check out the price options.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":50,"featured_media":18654,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","categories":[],"c-tag-articles":[],"global-tag":[12,83],"class_list":["post-22120","articles","type-articles","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","global-tag-3d-printing","global-tag-materials"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.7 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Best Flexible Materials in 3D Printing | Xometry Pro<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"This article overviews the best flexible materials for 3D printing (TPU, True Silicone and CLIP resins) for technologies available at Xometry.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/articles\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Best Flexible Materials in 3D Printing | Xometry Pro\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"This article overviews the best flexible materials for 3D printing (TPU, True Silicone and CLIP resins) for technologies available at Xometry.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/en\/articles\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Xometry Pro\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-09-23T12:46:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/xometry.pro\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/flexible-tpu-material.webp\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1300\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"725\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/webp\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"17 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/\",\"name\":\"The Best Flexible Materials in 3D Printing | Xometry Pro\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/flexible-tpu-material.webp\",\"datePublished\":\"2023-12-11T12:24:43+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-09-23T12:46:46+00:00\",\"description\":\"This article overviews the best flexible materials for 3D printing (TPU, True Silicone and CLIP resins) for technologies available at Xometry.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/flexible-tpu-material.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2023\\\/12\\\/flexible-tpu-material.webp\",\"width\":1300,\"height\":725},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/3d-printing-flexible-materials\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Articles\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/articles\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Materials\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/global-tag\\\/materials\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":4,\"name\":\"The Best Flexible Materials in 3D Printing\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/xometry.pro\\\/en\\\/\",\"name\":\"Xometry Pro\",\"description\":\"Knowledge &amp; 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