The cheapest material to 3D print with is PLA (polylactic acid), a type of biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is widely used for 3D printing because of its low cost, ease of use, and environmental friendliness. In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of PLA, as well as some alternatives that may suit your needs better.
PLA has many benefits that make it a popular choice for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals alike. Some of the advantages of PLA are:
Low cost: PLA is one of the most affordable materials for 3D printing, with an average price of $20-$30 per kilogram. This makes it ideal for prototyping, testing, or experimenting with 3D printing without breaking the bank.
Ease of use: PLA is easy to print with, as it does not require a heated bed, has good adhesion to most surfaces, and has a low shrinkage rate. PLA also has a low melting point, which means it can be printed at lower temperatures and speeds, reducing the risk of clogging or jamming the nozzle.
Environmental friendliness: PLA is biodegradable and compostable, which means it can be disposed of in an eco-friendly way. PLA is also made from renewable resources, which reduces the carbon footprint and the dependence on fossil fuels. PLA is also non-toxic and odorless, which makes it safe to use indoors and around children and pets.
PLA is not perfect, however, and it has some drawbacks that may limit its applications or performance. Some of the disadvantages of PLA are:
Low durability: PLA is not very strong or flexible, which means it can break or crack easily under stress or impact. PLA is also not resistant to high temperatures, moisture, or UV rays, which can cause it to degrade, warp, or discolor over time. PLA is not suitable for outdoor use or for parts that need to withstand mechanical or environmental stress.
Low compatibility: PLA is not compatible with many other materials, such as ABS, PETG, or nylon, which means it cannot be mixed or blended with them to create composite materials with enhanced properties. PLA also has a low glass transition temperature, which means it can deform or melt when exposed to heat sources such as a hair dryer or a hot car.
Low variety: PLA is available in a limited range of colors, finishes, and textures, which may restrict the aesthetic or functional possibilities of your 3D prints. PLA is also not very versatile, as it cannot be post-processed with techniques such as sanding, polishing, or painting, without affecting its quality or appearance.
Alternatives to PLA
If PLA does not meet your requirements or expectations, you may want to consider some other materials that may offer better performance, quality, or variety. Some of the alternatives to PLA are:
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene): ABS is a type of thermoplastic that is strong, durable, and resistant to heat, impact, and chemicals. ABS is widely used for 3D printing because of its high quality and versatility. ABS can be post-processed with techniques such as sanding, polishing, or painting, to create smooth and glossy finishes. ABS can also be mixed or blended with other materials, such as metal, wood, or carbon fiber, to create composite materials with enhanced properties. However, ABS is more expensive, difficult, and hazardous to print with than PLA, as it requires a heated bed, a well-ventilated space, and a high-temperature nozzle. ABS also has a high shrinkage rate, which can cause warping or cracking of the 3D prints.
PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol): PETG is a type of thermoplastic that is strong, flexible, and resistant to heat, moisture, and chemicals. PETG is widely used for 3D printing because of its high durability and transparency. PETG can be used to create clear or translucent 3D prints, such as bottles, containers, or lenses. PETG can also be post-processed with techniques such as sanding, polishing, or painting, to create smooth and glossy finishes. However, PETG is more expensive and tricky to print with than PLA, as it requires a higher temperature and speed, and a careful calibration of the extrusion and retraction settings. PETG also has a tendency to string or ooze, which can affect the quality or appearance of the 3D prints.
Nylon (polyamide): Nylon is a type of synthetic polymer that is strong, flexible, and resistant to abrasion, wear, and tear. Nylon is widely used for 3D printing because of its high strength and flexibility. Nylon can be used to create durable and flexible 3D prints, such as gears, hinges, or joints. Nylon can also be post-processed with techniques such as dyeing, coating, or smoothing, to create different colors, finishes, or textures. However, nylon is more expensive and challenging to print with than PLA, as it requires a heated bed, a dry environment, and a high-temperature nozzle. Nylon also has a high shrinkage rate, which can cause warping or curling of the 3D prints.
PLA is the cheapest material to 3D print with, but it is not the best material for every project or purpose. PLA has many advantages, such as low cost, ease of use, and environmental friendliness, but it also has many disadvantages, such as low durability, low compatibility, and low variety. Depending on your needs, preferences, and budget, you may want to explore other materials that may offer better performance, quality, or variety, such as ABS, PETG, or nylon. The choice of material is an important factor that can affect the outcome and satisfaction of your 3D printing experience.
