Yes, you can turn failed 3D prints into filament by using a process called filament extrusion. Filament extrusion is a way of recycling plastic waste from 3D printing and transforming it into new filament that can be used again. This can help you save money, reduce environmental impact, and create custom filaments.
Filament extrusion is a process of melting plastic and forcing it through a nozzle to create a thin strand of filament. The filament is then cooled and wound onto a spool. Filament extrusion can be done with different types of plastic, such as PLA, ABS, PETG, and more.
Filament extrusion can be done with a commercial filament extruder, a DIY filament extruder, or even a regular 3D printer. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the cost, quality, and convenience.
How to Turn Failed 3D Prints into Filament?
To turn failed 3D prints into filament, you need to follow these steps:
Collect and sort your failed prints. You need to gather all the plastic waste from your 3D printing projects, such as failed prints, support structures, rafts, and brims. You also need to sort them by material type and color, as mixing different plastics can cause problems with melting, extruding, and printing. For example, you should separate PLA from ABS, and black from white.
Shred or cut your failed prints. You need to reduce the size of your failed prints so that they can fit into the extruder. You can use a shredder, a cutter, or a hammer to break them into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier they will melt and extrude. However, you should avoid making them too fine, as they can clog the nozzle or cause inconsistent filament diameter.
Dry your failed prints. You need to remove any moisture from your failed prints, as moisture can affect the quality and strength of the filament. You can use an oven, a dehydrator, or a desiccant to dry your failed prints. The drying time and temperature depend on the type and amount of plastic you have, but generally, you should aim for around 80°C for 4 hours.
Extrude your failed prints. You need to feed your failed prints into the extruder and set the appropriate temperature and speed for the material. The extruder will melt the plastic and push it through a nozzle, creating a continuous filament. You need to monitor the filament diameter and adjust the settings accordingly. You can use a caliper, a laser, or a sensor to measure the filament diameter and ensure it is consistent and within the tolerance of your 3D printer.
Spool and store your filament. You need to wind your filament onto a spool and store it in a dry and cool place. You can use a winder, a drill, or a manual method to spool your filament. You should also label your spool with the material type, color, and diameter. You should also use a vacuum bag, a ziplock bag, or a container with a desiccant to store your filament and prevent it from absorbing moisture.
What are the Benefits of Turning Failed 3D Prints into Filament?
Turning failed 3D prints into filament has several benefits, such as:
Saving money. You can reuse your plastic waste and avoid buying new filament. Depending on the type and quality of the filament you make, you can save up to 80% of the cost of buying new filament.
Reducing waste. You can reduce the amount of plastic waste that goes to landfills or incinerators. Plastic waste can take hundreds of years to decompose and can harm the environment and wildlife. By recycling your failed prints, you can contribute to a circular economy and a greener future.
Creating custom filaments. You can create your own filaments with different colors, blends, and additives. You can mix different plastics, pigments, and fillers to create unique filaments that suit your needs and preferences. For example, you can make glow-in-the-dark, wood-filled, or metal-filled filaments.
What are the Challenges of Turning Failed 3D Prints into Filament?
Turning failed 3D prints into filament also has some challenges, such as:
Investing in equipment. You need to buy or build an extruder, a shredder, a dryer, a winder, and other tools to turn your failed prints into filament. Depending on the quality and complexity of the equipment, this can cost from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
Spending time and effort. You need to spend time and effort to collect, sort, shred, dry, extrude, spool, and store your failed prints. This can take from a few hours to a few days, depending on the amount and type of plastic you have.
Compromising quality. You may not get the same quality and performance of the filament as the original one. Recycling plastic can degrade its properties, such as strength, flexibility, and durability. You may also encounter issues with filament diameter, consistency, and compatibility with your 3D printer.
Turning failed 3D prints into filament is a feasible and beneficial way of recycling plastic waste from 3D printing. It can help you save money, reduce waste, and create custom filaments. However, it also requires some equipment, time, and effort, and may not guarantee the same quality and performance of the filament as the original one. Therefore, you should weigh the pros and cons of turning failed 3D prints into filament and decide whether it is worth it for you.
