Is FDM TPU 92A One of the Strongest 3D Printer Filaments?

Stratasys has introduced FDM TPU 92A, a high‑performance elastomer that delivers exceptional stretch, compression, and tear resistance. Designed for manufacturers who demand long part elongation, superior toughness, and complete design freedom, this filament pushes the boundaries of what 3‑D printing can achieve.

Updated on 2/5/2019: Watch our new torture‑test video and read the full blog post for deeper insights.

According to the material’s data sheet, FDM TPU 92A meets the rigorous requirements for resilient, rubber‑like parts. Download the Data Sheet

While technical specs are informative, observing the filament in real‑world scenarios reveals its true capabilities. Our team conducted several quick failure tests—not scientific but illustrative—to gauge tensile strength, tear strength, and stretch limits. The results confirm that FDM TPU 92A is among the strongest filaments available.

Test 1: Can the Filament Pull a Car?

We tested whether a single chainlink made from the elastomer could haul a Honda Civic in neutral across a parking lot. The chainlink succeeded, showcasing the material’s impressive load capacity.

Test 2: Lifting Heavy Loads

We also evaluated whether the chainlink could lift 45‑lb water bottles off the ground. Though friction from the forklift forks and strap hooks aided the lift, the filament stretched remarkably without breaking. Future tests will minimize friction to isolate the material’s true strength.

Test 3: Withstanding Vehicle Pressure

In a short video, a Toyota Tundra (gross vehicle weight 6,900 lbs) drove over a 0.008‑inch thick 3‑D‑printed hose made from FDM TPU 92A. The hose returned to its original shape—an impressive demonstration of resilience.

Key Takeaways

FDM TPU 92A delivers unmatched durability and resilience. A single piece of the material successfully pulled a car and lifted five‑gallon water bottles, proving its robustness for a wide range of applications. It stands out as one of the strongest filaments we’ve tested.

Want to learn more about FDM TPU 92A elastomer? Contact us today!