What glue to use for TPU ? To glue TPU, you must choose a glue capable of offering good adhesion while maintaining a certain flexibility after drying.
TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane, is a flexible material widely used in 3D printing, in protections, joints, technical parts, accessories and elements subject to movement or deformation.
For this type of application, SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 is particularly interesting: its cyanoacrylate formula remains slightly flexible after polymerization, which allows it to better support movements than a completely rigid glue.
Why is TPU special to stick ?
The main advantage of TPU is also what makes its bonding more delicate : its flexibility.
A TPU part can :
- bend;
- become deformed;
- absorb vibrations;
- regain its shape;
- undergo repeated movements.
If the glue used becomes extremely rigid after drying, the junction can become the weak point of the assembly.
For this reason, the choice of an adhesive must take into account not only adhesion, but also the necessary flexibility after gluing.
SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 : a solution for flexible materials
SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 is a transparent cyanoacrylate glue designed to retain a certain elasticity once polymerized.
It is particularly suitable for applications subject to movements, vibrations or small deformations.
It can therefore be interesting for :
- some parts printed in TPU;
- flexible elements;
- small repairs;
- model making;
- parts subject to vibrations;
- assemblies requiring rapid setting.
👉 Discover SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21
As there are different formulations and hardnesses of TPU, it is still advisable to carry out a small preliminary test before final bonding.
How to glue TPU correctly ?
1. Clean the surface
The area must be clean, dry and free of dust, grease and fingerprints.
On a 3D printed part, also remove any residue from printing.
2. Perform light sanding if necessary
When the surface is particularly smooth, very light sanding can increase the bonding area.
However, the TPU must not be deformed or damaged.
3. Apply very little glue
With a cyanoacrylate, putting more product does not mean obtaining a more resistant bond.
Apply a small amount of SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 on one of the surfaces.
4. Assemble immediately
Position the two elements correctly and keep them under pressure during setting.
Avoid moving the pieces during this phase.
5. Allow the bonding to stabilize
Even when Super Glue sets quickly, avoid immediately twisting or bending the part.
What glue for 3D printing in TPU?
For a 3D printed part in TPU, you must especially look the function of the room.
A decorative or lightly used part will not have the same needs as an element that is regularly bent or subjected to vibrations.
For a small repair, a clean junction or a precise assembly, a SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 can be particularly interesting thanks to its combination between:
rapid setting + precision + flexibility after drying.
For a part that must constantly undergo very significant deformation, it is always preferable to test the bonding under real conditions of use.
TPU over TPU or TPU over another material?
The second material is also important.
TPU on TPU
The flexibility of the bonding is essential so that the junction can accompany the movements of the two parts.
TPU over hard plastic
The glue must support the difference in behavior between a flexible part and a rigid part.
TPU on metal
The preparation of the metal becomes particularly important: cleaning and degreasing are essential before bonding.
In any case, you should not simply ask yourself:
“Does the glue stick?” »
You also need to ask yourself:
“Will the collage support the movements of the piece? »
Mistakes to avoid with TPU
To obtain a more reliable bond, avoid in particular:
- a greasy or dusty surface;
- excessive amount of glue;
- a glue that is much too rigid for a very flexible part;
- to move the elements during the setting;
- to immediately request bonding;
- to consider all TPUs as strictly identical.
TPU comes in different compositions and hardnesses. A preliminary test therefore remains a good practice, particularly for a technical application.
Our customers’ opinions on SUPER GLUE COLLE21 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
User satisfaction is also an important element in choosing a bonding solution.
SUPERGLUE COLLE21⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ has more than 500 Google reviews, coming from individuals, modelers, craftsmen and professionals who use the products Colle21 for many applications.
This feedback also allows us to continue to develop a range that meets different expectations: precision, speed, transparency, viscosity, flexibility and ease of use.
If you like our service or our products, do not hesitate to leave us a reviews.
Your opinion is very important to us and helps us to improve and make our products and know-how known.
SUPER GLUE COLLE21: manufacturer of cyano glues and partner of professionals
Since 2012, SUPER GLUE COLLE21 develops and distributes a complete range of cyanoacrylate glues and professional adhesive solutions, intended for both individuals and professionals.
With more than 140 references, our range meets many applications: different viscosities of cyanoacrylates, flexible glues, gels, activators, primers and specialized bonding solutions.
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Professionals can benefit from a dedicated catalog, of preferential rates and conditions, of a personalized support as well as the possibility of creating custom labels or in co-branding with their brand or brand.
We support many professions and sectors: bodywork, dental prosthesis, nail prosthesis, model making, DIY, repair, 3D printing, aquascaping, fishing, radio control, industry, decoration and specialized businesses.
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FAQ – What glue to use for TPU?
What is the best glue for TPU?
For small repairs requiring speed and flexibility, a flexible cyanoacrylate glue like SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 can be particularly interesting.
Can you use Super Glue on TPU?
Yes, some cyanoacrylate glues can be used on TPU. It is best to choose a flexible formulation and pretest, as TPU formulations can vary.
What glue should I use for 3D printed TPU?
For a small part printed in TPU, one SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 can allow rapid bonding while maintaining more flexibility than a very rigid cyanoacrylate.
Should the TPU be sanded before gluing?
Light sanding can improve adhesion on certain very smooth surfaces, but it must be done delicately so as not to damage the part.
Should the TPU be degreased?
Yes. A clean, dry and grease-free surface promotes better contact between the material and the glue.
Can you glue TPU to metal?
Yes, depending on the application. Preparation of both materials is essential, including cleaning and degreasing the metal.
Conclusion: which glue to choose for TPU?
To know what glue to use for TPU, we must remember one essential characteristic:
TPU is flexible, so the bonding must be able to withstand its movements.
For a small repair, 3D printing or assembly requiring rapid setting, SUPER GLUE Colle21 FLEX 21 constitutes a particularly interesting solution thanks to its flexible cyanoacrylate formulation.
The method remains simple:
clean → prepare → apply a little glue → assemble → hold → let set.
And above all, when the part must undergo significant deformation, always carry out a preliminary test to verify that the bonding really corresponds to your use.
Also find the products SUPER GLUE Colle21 on the SUPER GLUE official store Colle21 on Amazon.
Let's stick together with SUPER GLUE Colle21 ! 🚀