Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right 3D Printing Filament
Introduction
3D printing is quickly becoming one of the most popular methods for creating unique and functional items. To get the most out of your 3D printer, you need the right filament. The right filament will depend on what type of 3D printing you are doing and the accuracy you need. In this article, we will discuss the different types of 3D printing filament and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Types of Filament
The most popular type of filament is ABS, or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. ABS is a strong, durable plastic that is heat resistant and is suitable for a wide range of 3D printing jobs. It is also relatively inexpensive compared to other filaments.
PLA, or polylactic acid, is also a popular choice. PLA is a biodegradable plastic that is easier to print with than ABS and is safer to use because it emits fewer fumes. It is not as durable as ABS but it is still strong and can be used for a variety of projects.
Another type of filament is PET, or polyethylene terephthalate. PET is a strong, flexible plastic that is heat resistant and is often used in food containers. It is more expensive than ABS and PLA but is easier to work with and can be used to create complex designs.
Finally, there is nylon filament, which is a strong, flexible plastic that is resistant to abrasion and heat. It is more expensive than ABS and PLA but is ideal for projects that require strength and flexibility.
Considerations for Choosing a Filament
When choosing a filament for your 3D printing project, there are several factors to consider. First, you need to decide what type of 3D printing you will be doing. This will help you determine which type of filament is best suited for your project.
Second, consider the accuracy of the filament you are using. The accuracy of the filament will determine the quality of the 3D printed object. If you need a high level of accuracy, you may want to opt for a more expensive filament.
Third, consider the cost of the filament. ABS and PLA are generally cheaper than PET and nylon, so they are usually the more cost-effective choice. However, if you need a material with a higher level of accuracy or strength, then you may want to opt for a more expensive filament.
Finally, consider the environmental impact of the filament you are using. PLA is biodegradable and is a better choice for the environment than ABS or PET. Nylon is also a fairly environmentally friendly choice.
Conclusion
Choosing the right filament for your 3D printing project is an important decision. The type of filament you choose will depend on the type of 3D printing you are doing, the accuracy you need, and the cost of the filament. ABS, PLA, PET, and nylon are all popular choices for 3D printing and each has its own unique properties and advantages. Consider the environmental impact of the filament you are using and make sure to choose the filament that best meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the 3 types of filaments in 3D printing?
The three commonly used filament types in 3D printing are PLA, PETG, and ABS. These filaments offer different characteristics and properties, making them suitable for various applications in the 3D printing process.
2. How cheap is 3D printer filament?
The price of 3D printer filament varies depending on the material and quality. For everyday materials like PLA or PETG, prices range from $20 to $50 per kilogram. Specialized engineering or support filaments can cost between $60 and $120 per kilogram. Entry-level SLA resins are priced at around $50 per liter, while professional options can range from $150 to $400.
3. Is PLA better than PETG for print quality?
Both PLA and PETG have their own advantages and disadvantages. PLA is easy to use, biodegradable, and prints well at lower temperatures. However, it is not as strong or heat-resistant as PETG. PETG is a durable filament that can be printed at higher temperatures, but it requires more care to prevent warping and curling.
4. Is PLA safe for food?
PLA is generally considered food-safe as a pure material, as it does not contain toxic chemicals. However, it's important to note that dyes or additives found in some PLA filaments may not be food-safe. When using PLA for food-related applications, ensure that the filament used is specifically labeled as food-safe.
5. How long does PLA last?
Under normal room temperature conditions, PLA can last for a long time, ranging from 12 to 18 years. The lifespan of 3D printed objects made from PLA can vary depending on storage conditions and the environment. Generally, PLA objects can last from a month to several years.
6. Is owning a 3D printer expensive?
The cost of owning a 3D printer can vary depending on the type and level of functionality. Low-cost 3D printers can be found in the range of $100 to $400, while hobbyist-grade printers can cost up to $1,000. Enthusiast and professional-grade 3D printers can range from $1,000 to $10,000.
7. Will PETG melt in the sun?
PETG is a filament suitable for outdoor use and offers high resistance to deformation. It remains solid even in the presence of wind and sunlight. The UV rays from the sun do not significantly change or fade the color of 3D printed parts made from PETG.
8. What are the downsides to PETG?
PETG is more sensitive to print speed compared to PLA. High print speeds can result in newly extruded PETG not sticking well to the layer below or the previous strands. PLA, with its lower viscosity, tends to be stickier, allowing for higher build speeds. Therefore, PETG may have slower model build speeds compared to PLA.
Editor's Notes
During our 3d printing filament research, we found 26 3d printing filament products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 244,826 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 3d printing filament list. We found that most customers choose 3d printing filament with an average price of $27.25.
The 3d printing filament are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 3d printing filament, including Creality, OVERTURE, SUNLU, GIANTARM, ANYCUBIC. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.