How To Choose The Best 3D Printer Filament

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Selecting 3D printer filament to create prototypes or models of your product or idea. 3D printing is a quick and easy way to get a physical representation of your design. And the prototype model can be used to test your creation’s fit, function, and appearance.

3d printed human skull

There are a few different types of 3D printer filaments that you can use, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. So let us talk about the popular ones.

PLA is a good choice for beginners because it is easy to print with and relatively inexpensive. ABS is a stronger and more durable material, but it can be more difficult to print with.

If you are new to 3D printing, I recommend starting with PLA. Once you have mastered the basics of 3D printing, you can then experiment with other types of filaments, such as ABS.

Here are some of the benefits of using 3D printing to create prototypes or models of your product or idea:

  • Quick and easy: 3D printing is a quick and easy way to create a physical representation of your design. This can be helpful for testing the fit, function, and appearance of your product.
  • Low cost: 3D printing is a relatively low-cost way to create prototypes or models. This makes it a good option for small businesses or individuals who are on a budget.
  • Versatility: 3D printing can be used to create a wide variety of objects, from simple shapes to complex designs. This makes it a versatile tool for prototyping and modeling.
  • Accuracy: 3D printing can be used to create objects with a high degree of accuracy. This is important for products that need to fit together precisely, such as gears or connectors.

Suppose you are considering using 3D printing to create prototypes or models of your product or idea. 

In that case, I encourage you to do some research and learn more about the process. 3D printing is a powerful tool that can help you bring your ideas to life.

3d printed digital sundial

The differences between PLA and ABS filament:

PLA

  • Non-toxic and biodegradable: PLA is made from corn starch or sugar cane, so it is non-toxic and biodegradable. This makes it a good choice for people who are concerned about the environmental impact of their 3D printing.
  • Easy to print with: PLA is one of the easiest filaments to print with. It is not as finicky as ABS, and it is less likely to warp or clog the nozzle. This makes it a good choice for beginners.
  • Less expensive than ABS: PLA is typically less expensive than ABS. This makes it a good choice for people who are on a budget.
  • Produces smooth, shiny prints: PLA prints with a smooth, shiny finish. This makes it a good choice for prints that will be displayed or used in applications where a high-quality finish is important.

PLA Multicolor Filament, get a color-changing 3d printed model.

ABS

  • Stronger than PLA: ABS is stronger than PLA. This makes it a good choice for prints that will be used in applications where strength is important, such as toys or tools.
  • More heat resistant than PLA: ABS is more heat resistant than PLA. This makes it a good choice for prints that will be exposed to heat, such as prototypes or parts that will be used in a car or a machine.
  • Warps less easily than PLA: ABS is less likely to warp than PLA. This makes it a good choice for prints that are large or complex.
  • Can be sanded and painted to produce a high-quality finish: ABS can be sanded and painted to produce a high-quality finish. This makes it a good choice for prints that will be painted. Or that will need a smooth finish.

3D printed action figures

Which one to use?

The best filament for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a filament that is easy to print with, non-toxic, and biodegradable, then PLA is a good choice. If you need a filament that is stronger, more heat resistant, and can be sanded and painted, then ABS is a better option.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which filament is right for you is to experiment with both and see which one you prefer.

Some additional details about the differences between PLA and ABS filament

PLA

  • Polylactic acid (PLA) is a thermoplastic material made from renewable resources, such as cornstarch or sugarcane. It is a non-toxic, biodegradable, and easy-to-print material. PLA is a good choice for beginners and for printing objects that do not need to be strong or heat-resistant.

Flashforge colorchanging PLA filament

ABS

  • Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is a thermoplastic material made from petroleum-based products. It is a strong, heat-resistant material that can be sanded and painted. ABS is a good choice for printing objects that need to be strong or durable.

Examples of using 3D Printer PLA filament:

  • Prototyping: PLA is a good choice for prototyping because it is easy to print with and relatively inexpensive.
  • Educational: PLA is a good choice for educational projects because it is non-toxic and biodegradable.
  • Art: PLA is a good choice for art projects because it is easy to print with and can be used to create a variety of finishes.

Get a color-changing 3D printed model with shiny silk surface

Here use 3D Printer ABS filament:

  • Functional objects: ABS is a good choice for printing functional objects because it is strong and durable.
  • End-use products: ABS is a good choice for printing end-use products because it can be sanded and painted to produce a high-quality finish.
  • Engineering: ABS is a good choice for engineering projects because it is strong and heat-resistant.

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If you want to create a prototype or model of your product or idea, 3D printing is a great option. 

Thanks,

Bullwinkle

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Bullwinkle

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