ColorFabb SteelFill vs TPU
Compare ColorFabb SteelFill and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
ColorFabb SteelFill
-Versatile 3D printing filament
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
ColorFabb SteelFill
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier null
Tier S
Family
Specialty
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
210°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
60°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
low
high
Strengths Comparison
ColorFabb SteelFill Strengths
TPU Strengths
- Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
- Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
- Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)
Considerations
ColorFabb SteelFill Caveats
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ColorFabb SteelFill or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to ColorFabb SteelFill (Tier null). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: ColorFabb SteelFill is best for various applications, while TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between ColorFabb SteelFill and TPU?
ColorFabb SteelFill prints at 210°C nozzle / 60°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do ColorFabb SteelFill and TPU need an enclosure?
ColorFabb SteelFill: not needed. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: ColorFabb SteelFill or TPU?
Both ColorFabb SteelFill and TPU are beginner-friendly options.