PLA 3D printing is cheap compared to other types of 3D printing materials, but the cost depends on various factors such as the quality, quantity, and complexity of the prints. PLA, or polylactic acid, is a biodegradable and eco-friendly thermoplastic that is widely used for 3D printing. PLA is easy to print with, has a low melting point, and does not require a heated bed or enclosure. PLA also comes in a variety of colors and finishes, such as matte, glossy, transparent, or metallic. However, PLA is not the cheapest 3D printing material available, and there are some drawbacks and limitations to using PLA for 3D printing.
The cost of PLA 3D printing can vary depending on several factors, such as:
The quality of the PLA filament. The quality of the PLA filament can affect the print quality, durability, and appearance of the 3D printed objects. Higher quality PLA filaments are more consistent in diameter, have less moisture content, and have better mechanical and thermal properties. However, higher quality PLA filaments also tend to be more expensive than lower quality ones. The price of PLA filaments can range from $10 to $50 per kilogram, depending on the brand, quality, and features of the filament.
The quantity of the PLA filament. The quantity of the PLA filament can affect the cost of 3D printing per object, as well as the overall cost of 3D printing. Buying PLA filaments in bulk can reduce the cost per kilogram, as well as the shipping and handling fees. However, buying too much PLA filament can also result in waste, as PLA can degrade over time if not stored properly. PLA filaments should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, preferably in a sealed bag with a desiccant. PLA filaments can last for up to a year if stored correctly, but can lose their quality and performance if exposed to heat, humidity, or sunlight.
The complexity of the 3D print. The complexity of the 3D print can affect the cost of 3D printing in terms of the time, material, and energy required to complete the print. More complex 3D prints can take longer to print, use more filament, and consume more electricity than simpler 3D prints. The complexity of the 3D print can depend on factors such as the size, shape, resolution, infill, support, and layer height of the print. For example, a large, intricate, high-resolution 3D print with a high infill percentage and a lot of support material can cost more than a small, simple, low-resolution 3D print with a low infill percentage and no support material.
PLA 3D printing has some advantages and disadvantages compared to other types of 3D printing materials, such as:
Advantages of PLA 3D printing:
PLA is cheap compared to other types of 3D printing materials, such as ABS, PETG, or nylon.
PLA is easy to print with, as it does not require a heated bed or enclosure, and has good adhesion and low warping.
PLA is biodegradable and eco-friendly, as it is made from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane.
PLA is versatile and customizable, as it comes in a variety of colors and finishes, and can be modified with additives, such as wood, metal, or glow-in-the-dark particles.
Disadvantages of PLA 3D printing:
PLA is not very durable or flexible, as it has low impact resistance, tensile strength, and elongation at break.
PLA is not very heat-resistant or UV-resistant, as it can deform, discolor, or degrade when exposed to high temperatures or sunlight.
PLA is not very compatible with other types of 3D printing materials, as it has a low glass transition temperature and a high coefficient of friction.
PLA is not very suitable for functional or outdoor applications, as it can break, warp, or melt under stress, pressure, or weather conditions.
Conclusion
PLA 3D printing is cheap compared to other types of 3D printing materials, but the cost depends on various factors such as the quality, quantity, and complexity of the prints. PLA 3D printing also has some advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before choosing PLA as the 3D printing material. PLA 3D printing is ideal for beginners, hobbyists, and prototypers who want to create low-cost, eco-friendly, and aesthetically pleasing 3D prints. However, PLA 3D printing is not recommended for professionals, engineers, and makers who need to create durable, flexible, and heat-resistant 3D prints for functional or outdoor applications.
