TPC: density, print temperature and when to choose it
TPC (thermoplastic copolyester elastomer) is the stiffest of the common flexible materials: it's noticeably less elastic than TPU and TPE, but holds a given geometry under load better and withstands higher operating temperatures without deforming. It's chosen where a part needs to be not rubber-soft but "semi-flexible," with a predictable response to bending.
Key properties
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | ≈1.22 g/cm³ |
| Nozzle temperature | 220–245°C |
| Bed temperature | 40–60°C |
| Part cooling | medium |
| Shrinkage | moderate |
| Enclosure required | no |
TPC prints slower than rigid plastics, but noticeably more confidently than TPE — its stiffer filament buckles less often in the feed mechanism; still, a speed of 30–45 mm/s and steady flow remain critical for a clean result.
When to use it
- Semi-flexible functional parts that need to spring back into shape rather than sag: hinges, latches, cushioning inserts.
- Parts operating in elevated-temperature conditions where TPU and TPE lose their shape.
- Industrial prototypes needing predictable stiffness "between" a rigid plastic and soft rubber.
When to pick something else
- You need maximum softness and stretch — TPC is too stiff for that; take TPU or a softer TPE.
- The part is in ongoing contact with oils and fuel — for chemical resistance, TPA is a better fit.
- Budget is limited and shape/temperature requirements are modest — TPE is cheaper for the same flexible niche.
Pros and cons
Pros: holds geometry under load better than TPU and TPE, higher heat resistance, feeds more confidently in the extruder thanks to a stiffer filament.
Cons: less elastic — not suited where pronounced softness and stretch are needed, more expensive than TPE, fewer color and brand choices on the market compared to TPU.
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TPC prints faster and more reliably than other elastomers, which slightly lowers its contribution to part cost compared to TPE and TPA at a comparable part volume. The main price factor is the material itself: it's more expensive than base plastics and sold by fewer manufacturers, so budget a higher price per kilogram at purchase and check the specific color's availability for your batch.