Flexible and compliant prototype components
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
AIHFABS MATERIAL GUIDE
Specialty 3D Printing Polymers
Review specialty polymer grades for flexibility and application-specific prototype requirements.
Some catalog polymers fall outside the resin, nylon and filament families. Start with the exact grade and manufacturing route, then review flexibility, geometry and the working environment. A family name alone is not a complete material specification.
START WITH THE APPLICATION
Where this material family fits
Use the application to shortlist a grade, then confirm the exact requirements against the part design and operating conditions.
Application-specific polymer fixtures
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
Fit and handling evaluation samples
Define the required fit, finish and working environment. Include the intended test or acceptance criteria with your model.
DESIGN & MANUFACTURING
What to review before selecting a grade
- Identify the exact grade, process and required material behavior before comparing alternatives.
- Describe repeated bending, contact loads and any temperature or chemical exposure. Evaluate a representative sample.
- Specify critical fits, finishing and the inspection conditions for acceptance.
COMPARE THE AVAILABLE GRADES
Explore individual materials
SLS
TPU White
The printed part of TPU White has exceptional flexibility, high tear strength and abrasion resistance and is ideal for insoles, seals, protective gear, vibration-dampening components, and industrial gaskets.
View material details →
MJF
TPU Gray
The printed part of TPU Gray has exceptional flexibility, high tear strength and abrasion resistance and is ideal for medical tubing, custom-fit splints, gaskets, protective gear, and industrial components like bearings and seals.
View material details →
SLS
Polypropylene Glass-filled
The printed part of Polypropylene (PP) Glass-filled has excellent chemical resistance, low density and flexibility with high fatigue strength and is ideal for functional prototypes, living hinges, automotive components, medical devices, and consumer packaging.
View material details →MATERIAL QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a specialty polymer?
Describe the intended function and the behavior you need, such as repeated flex or a particular contact condition. Confirm the exact offered grade and process in the quotation.
Can flexible parts use the same drawing tolerances as rigid parts?
Review how the part will be supported and measured. Define functional dimensions and inspection conditions appropriate to the material.
What should I include for prototype testing?
Include mating components, loading conditions and the number of test cycles. Record the grade and delivered condition with the test result.
FROM THE AIHFABS BLOG
Recommended reading for material selection
Sla Design Guide For Printable Parts And Reliable Assembly
Design SLA parts for printing and assembly. Review walls, small features, tolerances, supports, hollow parts, and CAD files before requesting a quote.
Read article →SLA vs Other Manufacturing Processes: How to Choose
Compare SLA with DLP, LCD, FDM, SLS, MJF, SLM, and CNC machining. Shortlist processes by material, geometry, finish, cost, and your part's intended use.
Read article →How to Choose a 3D Printing Process for Cosmetic Prototype Parts
Learn how to choose the right 3D printing process for cosmetic prototype parts. Compare SLA, DLP, FDM, SLS, and MJF for surface quality, detail, fit, and finishing.
Read article →Compare other material families
Choose a material around your part
Upload CAD for a quote, or share the complete requirements for a material and manufacturing review.
