The types of 3D printer filament

3D printing has exploded in popularity in recent years. There are now many types of filaments available for use in 3D printers, each with their own properties and ideal use cases. Here is an overview of the most common 3D printer filaments:

PLA

PLA (polylactic acid) is one of the most commonly used desktop 3D printing filaments. It is made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is easy to print with and great for beginners since it has a relatively low printing temperature and minimal warping. It also biodegrades, making it an eco-friendly option. However, PLA is not as strong as other filaments and can be more brittle and prone to cracking compared to materials like ABS. It works best for models, prototypes, and hobby projects that do not require high durability.

PLA+

PLA+ is a modified version of PLA that contains additives to make it more durable and heat-resistant while still being easy to print with and producing low warp. However, it is slightly more difficult to print than regular PLA and not as heat-resistant as ABS. PLA+ works well for functional prototypes, tools, and models requiring more strength than standard PLA.

PETG

PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified) is a durable, flexible filament known for its strength, smooth surface finish, and minimal warping. However, PETG can be stringier than PLA and more difficult to get the optimal print settings dialed in. PETG is a great option for durable parts and models, cases, and containers that require some flexibility and impact resistance.

ABS

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) has great strength and impact resistance properties, can handle higher temperatures than PLA and PETG, and produces smooth surface finishes. However, ABS is prone to warping and shrinkage during printing and gives off unpleasant fumes. It also tends to be more difficult to print with compared to PLA. ABS is ideal for functional prototypes, automotive parts, toys, and other applications requiring good heat resistance.

TPU

TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) filaments are extremely flexible and elastic due to their rubber-like properties. However, they can be difficult to print with and require specific slicer settings. TPU also tends to be more expensive than other materials. But it excels at applications like flexible parts, joints, gaskets, and cases where high elasticity is required.

ASA

ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) filament is an UV-resistant alternative to ABS. It has great strength and temperature resistance like ABS but with lower warping. However, it can produce fumes during printing and generally is more difficult to print with than PLA and PETG. ASA is best for outdoor usage, automotive parts, and prototypes needing good heat and UV resistance.

PC

PC (polycarbonate) is an extremely strong engineering-grade plastic with excellent strength and temperature resistance. It can produce optically clear prints. However, PC is challenging to print with, sensitive to ambient moisture, and more expensive than other materials. PC excels when high-performance functional parts, medical devices, and drone components with superior strength are needed.

Nylon

Nylon filaments produce prints with excellent layer adhesion and strength. Carbon fiber-infused nylon can be very flexible. However, nylon tends to absorb moisture easily which can cause prints to warp. It also requires more optimized printer settings to print successfully. Nylon works great for high-strength functional parts like tool handles, bearings, and other components needing durability and impact resistance.

Conclusion

There are many 3D printing filaments to choose from, each with their own characteristics. Knowing the properties of each material will allow you to select the right filament for your specific 3D printing application. The most popular general use filaments are PLA and PETG. More advanced engineering materials like nylon and PC are used when high strength and heat/chemical resistance are needed.