Filament

Return to 3D Printing

PLA

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most common 3D printing material because it is easy to use and is made from renewable resources and thus, biodegradable. Some companies have PLA+ or Silk variants that mix additives into the base PLA to increase strength, smoothness, texture etc. This will often modify print temperature or other setting, so make note on what is listed on the package.

Typical Temp Range: 205±15 °C

Heated Bed: Not Required

Ventilation: Not Required

Pros: most cost effective, easiest materiel to work with

Cons: not super strong, can warp in high heat, degrades with UV exposure over time

ABS

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is another commonly used 3D printer material. Best used for making durable parts that need to withstand higher temperatures.

Typical Temp Range: 230±10 °C

Heated Bed: 90±10 °C

Ventilation: Likely, fumes aren't toxic but do smell

Pros: strong heat/UV resistant prints, can be post process with acetone for a glossy finish

Cons: prone to warping so may require an enclosure, stinky fumes

PET (PETG)

PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) is almost a combination of the ease of use of PLA with the durability of ABS.

Typical Temp Range: 245±10 °C

Heated Bed: Not required

Ventilation: Not required

Pros: stronger then PLA, barley warps, no odor, more transparent then other materials,

Cons: harder to clean during post-processing, can get stuck to print bed, very hygroscopic so requires a dry box for storage or drying before use

TPU

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is an elastic, oil/grease resistant, and abrasion-resistant material with a shore hardness of 95A. This materials is great for grips, cases, and other item that require more flexibility

Typical Temp Range: 220±10 °C (can depend on brand)

Heated Bed: 40±10 °C

Ventilation: Not required

Pros: elastic/soft material, low warp-age/shrinkage,

Cons: difficult to print, prone to clogging particularly with systems using a bowden extruder, difficult to post-process especially support removal, hygroscopic so requires a dry box for storage or drying before use

ASA

Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) was developed as an alternative to ABS. With a number of additional features, like improved weather resistance and resistance to yellowing from UVs, making it an excellent choice for parts or prints meant for outdoor use.

Typical Temp Range: 250±10 °C

Heated Bed: 90±10 °C

Ventilation: Likely, fumes aren't toxic but do smell (less then ABS)

Pros: strong heat/UV resistant prints, post processed with acetone,

Cons: prone to warping so may require an enclosure, stinky fumes, hygroscopic so requires a dry box for storage or drying before use