I was interested in printing traction tires with my Ender 3 and using TPU. My test engine was a Lionel JLC Y6B using Polymaker TPU 95A. I went through a few different trials with different size tires as shown below. I did find printing one a time did a better job of making the tire as opposed to trying build many at once. I did not use a scale for testing pull, but rather I have a short, curved 4% grade that is a must to make it up on my layout. In the end my, last set of tires listed below worked the best and would make it up the grade with the train in pull and minimal slipping at a slower speed, but still not as good as normal traction tires. If I had smaller grades, I would probably be using my printed ones. Has any one else worked at this and found a better filament for this? I suppose I could use the softer 90 A durometer offered, but the tires still seems to have no tackiness to it like a traditional traction tire.
Attempt 1 -- 30 mm OD, 28 mm ID, 3.2mm Width
Made it up the grade, seated properly but too thick, caught on brake shoes
Attempt 2 -- 29.2mm OD, 28 mm ID, 3.0mm Width
Wouldnt make up the grade. seated properly, but wouldn't grab well. I think the rail slipped between the grooved rim and tire.
Attempt 3 -- 29 mm OD, 27.5mm ID, 3.2mm Width
Worked the best, made up grade
