3D printing filaments come in many different types, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Understanding the different types of filament and their uses can help you choose the right filament for your 3D printing project.
PLA (Polylactic Acid) Filament
PLA filament is one of the most popular types of 3D printing filament. It is made from renewable resources such as corn starch and sugarcane, and is biodegradable. It is easy to use, has low warping, and produces high-quality prints. PLA filament is commonly used for printing models, toys, and other non-functional items.
Pros:
Easy to print with, especially for beginners
Low warping and shrinkage
Biodegradable and eco-friendly
Available in a wide range of colors
Cons:
Not as strong as other filaments
Limited heat resistance
Can become brittle over time
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Filament
ABS filament is a popular filament for 3D printing. It is strong, durable, and has good heat resistance, making it suitable for printing functional parts such as automotive components and electronic enclosures. ABS filament requires a heated bed and a heated enclosure to prevent warping.
Pros:
Strong and durable
Good heat resistance
Suitable for printing functional parts
Cons:
Prone to warping and cracking if not printed with an enclosed printer and heated bed
Can produce unpleasant fumes during printing
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) Filament
PETG filament is a strong and durable filament that is easy to use. It has good impact resistance, making it suitable for printing functional parts. PETG filament has a low shrinkage rate and good bed adhesion, making it less prone to warping compared to other filaments.
Pros:
Strong and durable
Good impact resistance
Easy to use
Less prone to warping compared to other filaments
Cons:
Can be more expensive compared to other filaments
Not as widely available as other filaments
Nylon Filament
Nylon filament is a strong and flexible filament that is suitable for printing durable and functional parts. It has good resistance to impact and abrasion, and is able to withstand high temperatures. Nylon filament requires a heated bed and an enclosed printer to prevent warping.
Pros:
Strong and flexible
Good resistance to impact and abrasion
Suitable for printing functional parts
Cons:
Requires a heated bed and enclosed printer to prevent warping
Can be difficult to print with due to its high melting point and tendency to absorb moisture
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) Filament
TPU filament is a flexible filament that is commonly used for printing phone cases, shoe soles, and other flexible items. It has good resistance to impact and abrasion, and is able to withstand low temperatures. TPU filament is difficult to print with and requires a slow print speed to prevent warping.
Pros:
Flexible and stretchy
Good resistance to impact and abrasion
Suitable for printing phone cases, shoe soles, and other flexible items
Cons:
Difficult to print with and requires a slow print speed
Can be prone to warping and stringing
PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) Filament
PVA filament is a water-soluble filament that is commonly used for printing support structures for 3D printed objects. It dissolves in water and can be used to
