If you are new to 3D printing, the best filament to start with is PLA (polylactic acid), a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. PLA is easy to print with, has good dimensional accuracy, and comes in a variety of colors and finishes. PLA is also relatively inexpensive and widely available, making it a popular choice for beginners and hobbyists.
However, PLA is not the only filament option for 3D printing. There are many other types of filaments, each with their own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your project requirements and preferences. In this article, we will explore some of the most common filaments for 3D printing, and help you decide which one is best for you.
ABS is another thermoplastic that is widely used for 3D printing, especially for functional parts and prototypes. ABS is strong, durable, and resistant to heat and impact. ABS can also be sanded, glued, and painted, making it suitable for post-processing and finishing.
However, ABS is not without its drawbacks. ABS requires a heated bed and a high extrusion temperature to print with, which can cause warping and cracking if the cooling is not uniform. ABS also emits a strong and unpleasant odor when heated, which can be harmful to your health and the environment. Therefore, ABS should only be printed in a well-ventilated area with proper safety precautions.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
PETG is a modified version of PET, the plastic used for water bottles and food containers. PETG is a semi-flexible and transparent filament that combines the best features of PLA and ABS. PETG is easy to print with, has good layer adhesion and strength, and is resistant to water, chemicals, and UV rays. PETG is also recyclable and food-safe, making it a eco-friendly and versatile filament.
However, PETG is not perfect either. PETG is prone to stringing and oozing, which can affect the print quality and aesthetics. PETG also has a high shrinkage rate, which can cause warping and curling if the bed is not properly leveled and heated. PETG also tends to stick to the nozzle and the bed, which can make it difficult to remove and clean.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
TPU is a flexible and elastic filament that can bend and stretch without breaking. TPU is ideal for printing parts that need to withstand vibration, shock, or abrasion, such as phone cases, gaskets, or tires. TPU is also resistant to oil, grease, and solvents, making it suitable for industrial applications.
However, TPU is not easy to print with. TPU is very soft and flexible, which can cause jamming and clogging in the extruder and the nozzle. TPU also requires a slow print speed and a high retraction to prevent stringing and blobbing. TPU also has a low melting point, which can cause it to deform or melt if exposed to high temperatures.
Nylon (Polyamide)
Nylon is a synthetic polymer that is known for its strength, durability, and flexibility. Nylon is one of the strongest and most abrasion-resistant filaments for 3D printing, making it ideal for mechanical parts and gears. Nylon can also be dyed, smoothed, and reinforced with other materials, such as carbon fiber or glass fiber, to enhance its properties.
However, Nylon is not a beginner-friendly filament. Nylon is very hygroscopic, which means it absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect its printability and quality. Nylon should be stored in a dry and sealed container, and dried before printing. Nylon also requires a high extrusion temperature and a heated bed, which can cause warping and shrinkage if the cooling is not consistent. Nylon also has poor adhesion to most surfaces, which can cause it to detach from the bed or curl up.
As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all filament for 3D printing. Each filament has its own pros and cons, and the best filament for you depends on your project goals, budget, and experience level. However, if you are just starting out with 3D printing, PLA is a safe and reliable choice that will give you satisfying results without too much hassle. As you gain more confidence and skill, you can experiment with other filaments and discover new possibilities for your 3D printing projects.
