Top Bed Adhesion Tricks for PETG and TPU 3D Prints

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Introduction

Getting your 3D prints to stick well to the print bed can be a challenge, especially when working with flexible or slightly tricky filaments like PETG and TPU. If you're a hobby RC pilot, maker, or DIY tinkerer in the UK, you know how frustrating it can be to have your print lift or warp mid-print. This guide will share some simple yet effective tips to improve bed adhesion for these materials.

Understanding PETG and TPU

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) are popular for their strength and flexibility. PETG offers good durability and chemical resistance, while TPU is prized for its rubber-like flexibility. However, both can be prone to bed adhesion issues if the setup is not quite right.

General Bed Preparation Tips

Before diving into specific tricks, make sure your print bed is clean. Dust, grease, or leftover residue can prevent proper sticking.

  • Wipe the bed with isopropyl alcohol or warm soapy water.
  • Check that your bed is level and the nozzle height is properly set.
  • Use a glass or PEI-coated bed surface for best results.

Bed Adhesion Tricks for PETG

PETG tends to stick very well to some surfaces but can also bond too strongly to glass, risking damage when removing the print. Here’s how to get the balance right:

  • Print Surface: Use a PEI sheet or a glass bed with a thin layer of glue stick. The glue stick acts as a barrier and improves adhesion without over-bonding.
  • Bed Temperature: Set your bed to around 70-80°C. This helps the filament stick without warping.
  • First Layer Settings: Slow down your first layer speed to about 20-25 mm/s and increase the first layer height slightly for better contact.
  • Clean Between Prints: After printing PETG, clean the bed thoroughly to remove any residue that might affect the next print.

Bed Adhesion Tricks for TPU

TPU’s flexibility can cause it to peel up easily, so the adhesion strategy focuses on giving it a strong, yet forgiving surface to cling to.

  • Print Surface: Blue painter’s tape is a favourite for TPU, providing a slightly rough texture to grip.
  • Bed Temperature: Set between 40-60°C depending on your TPU brand. A warm bed helps prevent warping but avoid overheating as TPU can get too soft.
  • Use a Brim or Raft: Adding a brim or raft increases the surface area and stabilises the print edges during the early layers.
  • First Layer Settings: Slow the first layer to 15-20 mm/s and increase extrusion width slightly to improve bed contact.
  • Flexible Bed Surfaces: If you have a spring steel magnetic bed with a flexible PEI sheet, TPU removal becomes easier without sacrificing adhesion.

Additional Tips for Both Materials

  • Always calibrate your Z-offset carefully to avoid squashing the first layer or leaving it too loose.
  • Consider using a skirt or brim to help prime the nozzle and stabilise the print.
  • If adhesion problems persist, try experimenting with different print surfaces like BuildTak, Kapton tape, or speciality adhesives designed for flexible filaments.

Conclusion

With the right preparation and settings, PETG and TPU can stick reliably to your print bed, reducing failed prints and frustration. Whether you're building custom RC parts or tinkering on your latest project, these adhesion tricks will help you get better results. Happy printing!

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