TPU on the A1-Mini

[NicPlays3D]

I have a couple BL printers - H2D and an A1-Mini.

I want to print TPU and have zero interest in jumping through the hoops necessary to print it on the H2D. So that leaves the A1-Mini.

The more I looked online, the more potential issues I found - open bed, temp control, feed issues, etc.

I spent quite a bit of time working out just how to efficiently feed the TPU 95A into the head of my Mini. I scoured the internet for some proven methods and didn’t really come across anything that blew my mind.

I printed the typical stand to hold the spool and such. I use the small Sunlu spools. Even in the spool adaptors, they spun way too freely and caused the filament to catch at times. And there was no way to deal with the moisture/temp variable.

So I picked up another AMS-HT and utilize it as an “external” source. I printed a cool little fitment thing that allows me to attach the tube to the original feed tube on the Mini. There are no open gaps in the tube from the HT to the hot end. Sealed pathway. Because it bypasses the hub, I can actively dry the filament while the TPU is being fed through the tubes to the print head. I tested it and the prints came out flawless.

If anyone else out there has been uncomfortable with TPU on these open bed slingers, maybe give this a shot.

I’ll attach a pic or three here.

It works surprisingly well for TPU95 (Sunlu). I’ve run several models through and they are incredibly clean. No hairs.

The AMS-HT on the left is the main unit for most all printing and feeds through the hub. I only print single color on the Mini. Any multicolor printing is done on the H2D.

The AMS-HT on the right is only for TPU and bypasses the hub.

[lion7718]

I use AMS Lite Passthru

I have a fitting on the PTFE that I use to switch the tube when I use it.

It works great, haven’t had any issues.

My make is on the page listing.

[MalcTheOracle]

I have four P1S printers and one A1 mini.

I have setup one of the P1S printers to print externally as the other three are too close to each other to hang an external spool.

However, I tend to use my open frame, bed-slinging A1 mini for most of my TPU 95A work.

The reason, it is really easy.

I hang the spool of the external adapter, and manually load it into the external adapter, bypassing the A1 mini AMS hub I use to hook up an AMS (not lite).

The TPU is not enclosed while printing. I have two different driers, a four bay and a single bay. I do not use them, because for me at least, they are unnecessary. I do the same for PEBA.

I have never had a failure printing TPU on the A1 mini or the P1S printers.

They just work. The only issue I ever had was when using a hardened steel nozzle, a topic currently being discussed elsewhere on the forum.

On a related note, I have ordered and am waiting for delivery of the new TPU loader. This is so I do t have to stand up while manually loading p. The loading process requires saying “not seen” 4 to 6 times before confirming it has loaded (the question and process is shown far too soon in my opinion).

The A1 mini is open frame, not a problem.
The TPU is in the open air, not a problem.

Unless you have real humidity issues ^ the TPU is fine outside during a print. Just bag it, box it and stow it properly when not in use.

^ I am hoping the water drops are a printed pattern on the blue surface under the printer.

[NicPlays3D]

hahaha, yes. The water droplets are actually two oversized mousepads that act as a mounting cushion for all of the devices. It helps deaden the activity happening above the workbench. I have a large supply of these cushiony mousepads with all kinds of Caribbean graphics. Water bubbles won the job that day as the blue went well with the Yellow and Blue theme for the printer mods.

[jeffsf]

Siraya Tech TPU 85A runs smoothly with a TPU Tamer running out of a dry box.

TPU Tamer

This type of filament feeder is perhaps what inspired Bambu to create their TPU Feed Assist Module Assembly & Usage Guide | Bambu Lab Wiki

Proper filament drying and keeping it dry is critical.