3D Printer Filament

Each year, new technological innovations are introduced in several industries, especially information and communications. The printing industry also has had its own fair share over the years. Technology is changing constantly at a fast pace and it will not slow down soon. There has been evolution in the printing industry from typewriters to printers to black and white printer then color printers. Today we have the 3D printers. 3D printing involves using the additive processes to make three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. The additive process is a process involving the laying of successive layers of material down until the total object is created.

In printing in 3D, the objects virtual design has to be modelled using a computer Aided Design (CAD) program using a 3D modeling program. Using a 3D scanner can also be used to print a similar copy of the scanned object.

We know several part makes up a printer to enable it print. Also every 3D printer requires certain components to function. 3D printer filament is one of such component. To enhance a high quality final project, the filament must be top grade.

PLA

The first type of 3D printer filament ideal for printing is the Poly-lactic Acid (PLA). It is one of the most commonly used 3D printing materials. Many 3D printers use PLA as the default printing material. PLA is eco-friendly. It is made of renewable starches (usually corn starch) and it requires less energy to process as compared to petroleum based plastics like Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). PLA is preferred over other plastics because it does not emit a lot of Ultra-Fine Particles, and the smell it produces is a bit pleasant. Objects printed with PLA are more rigid than other plastics like ABS which is less brittle. One advantage of PLA is objects printed with the plastic have a finish which is slightly glossy.

ABS

ABS is a type of 3D printer filament material which means Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. A typical example of ABS plastic is Lego. This material is frequently used for 3D printing. The printer prints at high temperature, this prevent jamming or clogging and makes it comes out nicely. Once it’s ejected it’s difficult to deal with because it shrinks as it cools. The shrinkage can cause deformation. It is always preferable for the base of the 3D printer to be heated bed.

ABS is made from oil and because of this it releases a toxic-like smell during printing. It is recyclable even though it’s not made of natural components like PLA.

ABS is more suited for 3D model designs because it stretches before it breaks, it is durable and strong. It is resistant to heat when cooled and slightly flexible. When exposed to sun it can get yellowed, so it is more suitable for indoor applications. To give it a more polished look, ABS can be softened using petroleum solvents. It can also be painted and sanded. In comparison to PLA it has more paint and post-process options.

Nylon

Nylon prints are also available. It prints at high temperatures and heated bed usage at 75ºC is recommended. Most nylon do not stick to aluminum or glass print bed, getting its first layer to stick to the print bed is challenging. Because Nylon filament absorb water it must be stored in a dry place. It can absorb more than 10% of its weight in water in 24 hours or less. Nevertheless when you need your 3D prints to be very strong, Nylon is a very good option. Nylon has great self-bonding properties, it is flexible, strong and it is durable and reliable for 3D printing.

3D printed objects made from Nylon has glossy appearance and it is durable due to its elastic properties.