Flexible 3D printing materials are used to create parts that can bend, stretch, absorb impact, and recover their shape after deformation. Among them, PEBA filament is an interesting option for applications that require flexibility and elastic recovery.
But what is PEBA filament? How does PEBA 90A compare with TPU, and what can you make with it?
In this guide, we’ll introduce PEBA as a 3D printing material, explore the key properties of iSANMATE PEBA 90A, and share practical applications and recommended printing settings.
What Is PEBA Filament?
PEBA stands for Polyether Block Amide, a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) that combines flexible polyether segments with stronger polyamide segments.
The polyether segments contribute to flexibility and elasticity, while the polyamide segments help provide mechanical strength and structural stability. This combination makes PEBA suitable for applications that require repeated deformation and elastic recovery.
What Does PEBA 90A Mean?
The number 90A refers to the material’s Shore A hardness rating. PEBA 90A is relatively firm compared with softer flexible filaments, while still retaining the ability to stretch and flex.
However, hardness alone does not determine tensile strength, elongation, or rebound performance. These properties should be considered separately when choosing a filament for a specific application.
Key Properties of PEBA 90A Filament
PEBA 90A combines flexibility with several properties that make it worth considering for functional 3D printed parts.
- High elastic rebound: PEBA can recover its shape after deformation. In iSANMATE’s internal testing, PEBA 90A achieved a measured rebound rate of 78%. Results depend on specimen design and test conditions.
- High elongation: With an elongation at break of 561.36% in the tested XY specimens, the material can stretch considerably before breaking.
- Flexible yet relatively firm: Its Shore A 90 hardness offers a balance between flexibility and firmness.
- Suitable for flexible structures: Its elastic characteristics make it a candidate for parts that need to bend, compress, or deform during use.
Actual printed-part performance depends on model geometry, print orientation, infill, and printing conditions.
iSANMATE PEBA 90A: Mechanical Test Data
The following results are from tensile testing of standard specimens printed with iSANMATE PEBA 90A filament.
| Property | Result |
| Tensile Strength (XY) | 9.91 MPa |
| Elongation at Break (XY) | 561.36% |
| Tensile Modulus (XY) | 18.48 MPa |
Results are based on standard XY-direction printed specimens. Actual printed-part performance may vary depending on print orientation, geometry, infill, and processing conditions.
What Can You Make with PEBA 90A?
PEBA 90A can be used to explore a range of flexible and elastic 3D printed designs. Its combination of flexibility and rebound makes it particularly interesting for products that experience bending, compression, or repeated deformation.
Potential applications include:
- Sports and protective accessories: Flexible protective components and cushioning structures.
- Footwear components: Lightweight cushioning structures and experimental lattice midsoles.
- Sports and recreational products: Elastic components such as hollow basketball models and other rebound-focused designs.
- Functional flexible parts: RC shock-absorbing components, flexible connectors, and pet toys.
The final performance of any application depends on its design and testing. For products involving safety, impact protection, or repeated loads, evaluate the finished part under the intended conditions before use.
PEBA 90A vs TPU 90A: Which Flexible Filament Should You Choose?
PEBA and TPU are both thermoplastic elastomers used in flexible applications, but their properties vary by material grade.
| Comparison | PEBA 90A | TPU 90A |
| Material Family | Polyether Block Amide | Thermoplastic Polyurethane |
| Hardness | Shore A 90 | Shore A 90 |
| What to Evaluate | Rebound, elongation, flexibility | Abrasion resistance, flexibility, durability |
| Best Choice Depends On | Application and test requirements | Application and test requirements |
This is a general material-family comparison, not a direct performance test between iSANMATE PEBA 90A and a specific TPU 90A product. The right choice depends on the application’s requirements, including rebound, flexibility, abrasion resistance, durability, and printing conditions.
How to 3D Print PEBA 90A Filament
PEBA 90A can be printed on compatible FDM 3D printers. As with other flexible filaments, stable feeding and moisture control are important for consistent results.
Recommended Printing Settings
| Parameter | Recommended Setting |
| Nozzle Temperature | 230°C |
| Bed Temperature | 35–65°C |
| Printing Speed | 40–80 mm/s |
| Drying | 80°C | 8–12 hours |
| Nozzle Size | 0.4 mm (Recommended) | 0.6 / 0.8 mm |
| Retraction | 0–0.4 mm (Direct Drive) | 1.4mm (Bowden) |
These are recommended starting settings for iSANMATE PEBA 90A. Actual results may vary depending on the printer, extruder design, and model geometry.
Tips for Better Printing Results
📍 Dry the filament before printing.
PEBA can absorb moisture, which may affect extrusion quality and surface finish. Dry iSANMATE PEBA 90A at 80°C for 8–12 hours before printing. After drying, keep the filament in a dry environment or use a filament dryer during printing when needed.
📍 Start with a controlled printing speed.
Start at around 40 mm/s and check extrusion consistency and print quality. For everyday printing, a speed of 40–60 mm/s is a practical starting range. You can gradually increase the speed toward 80 mm/s if your printer maintains stable filament feeding and extrusion.
📍 Pay attention to the filament feeding path.
Direct-drive extruders are generally easier to configure for flexible filaments because they provide a shorter, more controlled feeding path. Bowden systems may also work, but can require additional adjustment to retraction and filament feeding.
📍 Adjust settings according to the model
Thin walls, detailed structures, and different infill patterns can affect printing results. When troubleshooting, change one setting at a time so you can identify what improves the print.
Frequently Asked Questions
🔎 Is PEBA the same as TPU?
No. PEBA (Polyether Block Amide) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) are different families of thermoplastic elastomers. Both can be used for flexible 3D printed parts, but their properties vary by grade.
🔎 What is PEBA 90A filament used for?
PEBA 90A can be explored for flexible footwear components, insoles, hollow balls, protective accessories, handlebar grips, and other functional parts that require flexibility and elastic recovery.
🔎 Can PEBA 90A be printed with a Bowden extruder?
It may be possible, but flexible filament feeding can be more challenging in Bowden systems. Direct-drive extruders are generally easier to configure. Bowden users may need to adjust retraction and feeding settings for stable results.
Conclusion
PEBA filament offers an interesting combination of flexibility, elongation, and elastic recovery for 3D printing applications. With its 90A hardness, iSANMATE PEBA 90A can be explored for footwear designs, sports products, protective accessories, and flexible functional parts.
For consistent printing, start with the recommended settings, begin at around 40 mm/s, and make adjustments based on your printer and model.
Interested in trying PEBA 90A for your next project? Explore our iSANMATE PEBA 90A Product Pages for detailed specifications and technical data. If you have a specific application in mind, Contact iSANMATE to discuss your application requirements.
