3D PRINTER FILAMENT TYPES AND USES – COMPLETE GUIDE 2022

What is a 3D Printer Filament?

Printed three-dimensional objects are made up of filament 3D, a 3D printer material. Spools of filament make it simple to feed filament into your 3D printer. To produce your 3D model, your printer uses filaments made of heated plastic. Moreover, released onto your printer’s print bed in strands resembling spaghetti. Additionally, below are 3D Printer Filament types of ABS and PLA and Filamento Flexible examples.

3D Printer Filaments to Print

What is the formation of 3D printer filament?

Compound is the term used to describe the process of making filament for printing. First, a plastic base is produced in the form of pellets. These substances can be combined with additives to change their properties. After drying, the mixture is taken to the desired width (usually 1.75 or 2.85 mm) and rolled into a coil. Once injured, the filament is ready for 3D-printing.

Types of 3D Printer Filament:

There are two primary types of filaments for 3D printers.

a). 75mm filament

b). 85mm filament

Details of types is as following.

1. 1.75mm Filament: Types of ABS and PLA

The most common filament size for printing is 1.75mm. It is the smallest diameter filament that can be printed.

2. 2.85mm Filament: Types of ABS and PLA

Also known as 3mm filament, 2.85mm filament seems to be losing favor. With creators gravitating toward 1.75mm filament. Furthermore, numerous printers, like BCN3D Sigma printers and Ultimaker’s range of 3D printers, such as the Ultimaker 3, S3, and S5, use 2.85mm filament.

What is the best filament for a 3D printer? Types of ABS and PLA

One of the most critical choices is the filament you use along with the printer. Using the best filament for 3D printers ensures a smooth and lasting print. To some extent, yes. ABS or PLA are your best bets if you’re new to 3D printing. With PLA being one of the most user-friendly filaments overall. PETG is a good balance between ABS and PLA. As discussed in greater detail in the sections below on each 3D printer filament type.

 If you wish to print something wild and wacky glow-in-the-dark. Moreover, straightforward, or conductive sculptures. There are PLA blends that satisfy these specifications. PLA is commonly recognized as the most flexible filament. Moreover, variants such as pure PLA, conductive PLA, and others are routinely used for specialized tasks.

 TPU, TPE, and other flexible filaments are available for printing loose parts. These are discussed in further detail in the section on filaments flexible inside this filament guide. PC, Nylon, carbon fiber-filled, or even PEEK filaments may be more appropriate. For specialists who want the most robust 3D printer ones. Albeit these stronger ones are more expensive.

Cheap vs. Expensive Filaments: Types of ABS and PLA

PLA and ABS filaments are the cheapest 3D printer materials. Starting at around $20 per kilogram. PETG is significantly more expensive than PLA. Costing around $25 per kilogram, but is more durable. While the price of the toughest materials like nylon rises. Yarns that are more expensive to print such as PEEK can cost hundreds of dollars per kilogram. This is due to its strength, flexibility to heat and industrial use.

Types of Filaments to Print: Types of ABS and PLA

1. PLA: Types of ABS and PLA

       PLA is a RepRap material; co-creator Vik Oliver discovered the material’s 3D-printing potential while researching a suitable filament for early RepRap machines. PLA filament, also known as polylactic acid filament, is a popular filament for 3D-printing often compared to ABS filament. Moreover, PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic made from starch, sugar cane, bamboo, and potatoes. PLA filament is a recyclable thermoplastic material.

   Compared with other forms of plastic, this printable filament is more environmentally friendly. Due to its low toxicity, PLA is gaining popularity as a replacement for ABS. Moreover, it is one of the three main 3D printing filaments used in 3D-printing. Unlike ABS filament, PLA filament does not generate harmful fumes when printing, making it safer to use in residential and educational environments. Since this filament is non-toxic and non-hazardous, it is ideal for children interested in 3D-printing.

Characteristics:

• Temperature for 3D printing: 190-220C
• Heated bed: 40-60C optional
• Chamber is Heat: Not necessary
• The temperature at which glass transitions: 60-65C

Applications:

      PLA filament has the potential to degrade in the body to non-addictive lactic acid, and it is used in hospital suturing and medical implants as a result of this property. Screws, pins, rods, and mesh are surgically implanted in the body. Within six to two years, the substance will gradually disappear in the body.

In addition to the risks mentioned above. Food packaging, wrappers for candies and other sweets, throwaway tableware, clothing, hygiene products, and diapers are just a few of the many applications for this filament that can be found.

Pros:

•     This filament is suitable for beginners.
•     The filament that is the most straightforward to work with
•     When contrast to ABS, it is less prone to warping.
•     The filament is available in various hues; among these are translucent and glow-in-the-dark versions.

When heated, filament emits a delicious aroma that reminds one of waffles or   candy, among other things.

Cons:

•     The printer nozzle is susceptible to jamming or clogging.
•     It binds water molecules, causing them to become brittle and difficult to print at times.
•     A greater extrusion temperature is required for PLA that has been saturated with water.

2. ABS: Types of ABS and PLA

      ABS is one of the two most often used 3D printer filaments and was one of the first to be used industrially. Moreover, ABS is also one of the most durable filaments to print is available. ABS is well-known for having excellent mechanical qualities, as well as for being both challenging and impact resistant, as well as for being generally long-lasting.

This filament’s strength and moderate flexibility make it an excellent filament to print. It is also inexpensive. Furthermore, it is easily extruded, making it a breeze to print in large quantities. It is available in spools of 2 pounds, 5 lbs., and 10 lbs. in diameters of 3.0mm and 1.75mm. If you require an ABS engineering-grade filament, several options are available on the market.

Characteristics:

• Temperature for 3D printing: 220-225C
• Heated bed: Recommended 95-110C
• Chamber to heat: strongly recommended
• The temperature at which glass transitions: About 105C

Applications:

ABS is the optimal filament for mechanical components, automotive components, electronic components, and toys. ABS is the most durable filament for 3D printers. Apart from pipes, ABS filament is used in various applications. Including automobile parts, electronic assemblies, and safety headgear such as bike helmets. Also, musical instruments, household appliances, and LEGO bricks.

Pros:

•     ABS filament is Flexible
•     It is simple to print.
•     This filament is Impact-resistant
•     Tough and high-quality materials
•     Lightweight, with a subtle elasticity.
•     The thermoplastic that is the least expensive on the market
•     The most popular material in the 3D printing community.

Cons:

• Plastic that is derived from petroleum and is not biodegradable
• Mild fumes are produced, which may annoy users or others near the machine.
• To attain its melting point (210°C – 250°C), ABS filament must be heated to a high temperature.
• When it comes to ABS and 3D printers, it’s essential to ensure they’re installed in a well-ventilated location.

3. PETG Filament: Types of ABS and PLA

       Plasticizer-modified (PETG) filament is a version of widely used PET filament that has been “glycol-modified,” therefore earning the term PETG. It is a very hard substance that is incredibly reliable and does not emit any odor when printed. PETG filament is more durable and impact-resistant than PET filament, prone to becoming hazy and brittle when exposed to high temperatures. PETG filament is also less expensive. The inclusion of glycol excludes these disadvantages, resulting in a PETG filament with low shrinking, no warping, and a hard but not brittle texture.

  Additionally, the excellent layer adhesion of PETG has significant disadvantages. Due to its high adhesion, it is an unsuitable material for printing supports, bridges, and other structural parts. This eliminates PETG as a feasible choice unless you have a 3D printer. With two extruders. Moreover, the ability to print with a more durable support filament such as PVA or PLA.

Moreover, you should monitor for threading. Also, make any necessary modifications to your 3D slicer settings if excessive oozing occurs.

Characteristics:

• Temperature for 3D printing: 230-250C
• Bed to heat: Recommended at 75-90C
• The temperature at which glass transitions: About 80C

Applications:

PETG filament is the ideal material for printing products. That will be subject to sudden or prolonged stress. Such as protected equipment (such as cell phone cases) and mechanical parts. PETG filament is food safe. And can be used to make cups, plates, water or food containers and other items.

Pros:

•     Keeping food safe
•     Resistant to corrosion, versatile, and recycled
•     The filament is neither fragile nor prone to warping.
•     The material is more superior to PET in terms of impact resistance.
•     This product is non-shrinking and can be printed directly on the material without the use of adhesives.
•     The substance is impervious to water and moisture in the air and does not decay when exposed to water.

Cons:

•     It isn’t easy to print
•     Bridge-building features that are inferior
•     The filament is necessary to fine-tune the bed’s temperature and the nozzle.
•     Because of the stringing, PETG filament can develop thin hairs on the surface.

3. Flexible Filament: TPE, TPU: Types of ABS and PLA

TPE filament is the name given to 3D printer filament. Because the filament is made of thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Which increases its elasticity. Due to the strong and elastic properties of the TPE filament. It has the look and feel of rubber. It rebuilds itself several times to its original state. v. In addition, it is able to survive in extreme environments, which ABS and PLA cannot.

TPU Filament: Made of Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). A polymer with many beneficial properties. Including flexibility, openness, and resistance to grease, oil and abrasion. Due to its inherent flexibility, TPU filament is ideal for medical applications. The filaments are made with thermoplastic elastomers. Which are used to make the filament. However, it is advisable to keep them away from acids. Chemicals and fuels as they can affect their properties.

Characteristics:

• Temperature for 3D printing: 220-260C depending on filament flexible
• Heated bed: Recommended at 40-60C

Applications:

Because of the excellent flexibility of TPU and TPE filaments. They are used in a wide range of applications in the automotive and home appliance industries. In addition, TPE and TPU are ideal materials for a wide variety of products. Such as toys, novelties, clothing, phone chargers, and visual products.

Pros: Filamento Flexible

•     Tough, flexible, and resistant
•     Durable, with minimal shrinkage when cooled.
•     It is not necessary to have a heated bed.
•     Dimensional consistency, flexible feeding characteristics
•     High-quality objects have easily adhered to the construction platform, and linkages between layers are easily formed.

Cons: Filamento Flexible

•     It is pretty tough to 3D print with this filament.
•     It is required to fine-tune the temperature and flow rate of the nozzle.
•     The natural tendency of the extruder is to squeeze filament out in all directions except the nozzle.

4. Nylon Filament: Types of ABS and PLA

Nylon is a form of polyamide and nylon filament is known for its high toughness. Heat and impact resistance, and resistance to scratching and abrasion. In addition, the nylon filament is known for its extreme flexibility. As a result, nylon filament is used in a wide variety of manufacturing projects. And industrial 3D printing environments. For rapid prototyping and other purposes. In addition, PA12 nylon powder is used in SLS three-dimensional printers and MJF method. Compared to traditional filaments. Like PLA nylon is more expensive, with quality filaments starting at about $50 a pound.

 In addition to Nylon, which is a blend of carbon fiber and nylon. Which is a blend of glass fibers and nylon. There are several other forms of nylon filaments. Both blends give nylon more strength. Although it is significantly more expensive than regular nylon. In fact, nylon is considered more durable than ABS. Due to its superior impact resistance. Due to the elasticity of the material. It also does not give off any unpleasant odors during the 3D printing process, unlike ABS. It is mainly used for its exceptional strength, impact resistance and filament flexibility.

Characteristics: Filamento Flexible

• Temperature for 3D printing: 220-260C
• Heated bed: 75-90C may be 100C sometimes
• Nylon heated chamber: yes

Applications: Filamento Flexible

Nylon is a versatile material used in a wide variety of applications. Due to its superior strength. Moreover, durability and flexibility as well. A machine, mechanical, structural, dynamic load. Moreover, gears and bearings, containers, tools and consumables. Made from engineering grade nylon are all possible uses for this material.

Pros: Filamento Flexible

•     Nylon filament is resistant to water and chemical exposure.
•     Plastic that is less brittle than PLA or ABS
•     Thermoplastics are 100 percent recyclable.
•     Remelt and usage without losing bonding characteristics are possible.
•    This filament has high levels of strength, the superior rune of durability, and adaptability

Cons: Filamento Flexible

•     At least 240 degrees Celsius, the melting temperature is exceptionally high.
•     Filament like PEEK and PTFE are used in the hot-ends.
•     Will decompose and release hazardous gases when exposed to high temperatures.

5. Wood Filament: Filamento Flexible

Recent advances in 3D printing technology have made it possible. To produce perfectly rendered wood carvings. With even the cheapest filament 3D printers. These wood filaments usually contain 70% PLA and 30% p. Wood elements such as bamboo and other woods.

 These filaments give your models a true woody shine. Allowing you to create precise and precise wood replicas that look almost real. Only careful research will reveal the difference. You can also customize the cold wood veneer and certain wood types. Such as pine or birch when printing. High temperatures color the wood darker. While lower temperatures do the opposite. However, avoid pressing too high. Wood is flammable.

Characteristics: Filamento Flexible

• Extruder temperature: 180-220C
• Heat bed temperature: 40-60C optional
• Heat Chamber: No

Applications: Filamento Flexible

Wood filament is often used in the manufacture of accessories. Moreover, products that resemble wood. In addition, it can print cardboard boxes, hardwood figurines, as well as tables, chairs and cups.

Pros: Filamento Flexible

•     Constructed entirely of natural wood thread
•     Create a variety of brown wood-look surfaces in a variety of colors.
•     The brown color becomes darker.
•     By cutting, grinding, and painting, you enhance and post-process your creation.
•     Increasing the temperature of the printing process enhances the tree’s developing ring effect.

Cons: Filamento Flexible

•   In comparison to PLA, it is softer and weaker.
•     Reduced tensile strength and filament flexibility
•     The filament is brittle and susceptible to breaking.

Conclusion: Filamento Flexible

This section will discuss some of the most common filaments to print. As filament manufacturers strive to create new and exciting products. We as consumers benefit from the availability of diversity. The more comfortable we are with 3D printing, the more eager we are to experiment with even experimental materials.

 There are many filaments available in the market. Moreover, they are available in a variety of colors and prices. Because each filament has unique characteristics. That make it more suitable for a particular use than the others. 

  Besides PLA, ABS and TPE filaments, wood, nylon, TPU and PETG filaments are available. The variety of filaments available makes it easier to create the desired qualities for the model.

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