The world of 3D printing is fascinating and versatile, but it has its drawbacks. For example, choosing the wrong materials can affect the outcomes of all your projects, ranging from D&D models to drone parts. Use this guide on what to consider when choosing the correct printer filament for your next project to avoid costly mistakes.
Size
The size, particularly the diameter, is one of the most critical determining criteria in filament selection. To avoid jamming, the filament size you choose must be compatible with your printer’s nozzle. Most available filaments have a diameter of 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm. Make sure you’re selecting the correct size from your printer’s manual. When comparing filament vendors, pay attention to tolerance and roundness criteria, which are significant size characteristics that assist in determining the filament’s quality.
Brand
Once you’ve figured out what size and material type you’re looking for, you have to choose the right manufacturer. That’s a crowded field, so the choice can seem daunting. Most 3D crafters use the Ultimaker, MakerBot, and FormFutura filaments for their durability, heat resistance, and flexibility.
Material
The filament material you use is the most important consideration to make when choosing the correct printer filament. The material you chose must be compatible with your printer, just like the size. The following are some of the most prevalent filament materials.
ABS: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a low-cost, long-lasting thermoplastic that is lightweight and slightly flexible. High printing temperatures and a heated bed are necessary for this material. It also emits noxious odors, so ventilation is a must.
PLA: PLA (Polylactic acid) is a biodegradable thermoplastic manufactured from renewable resources such as sugarcane and maize starch. PLA is a wonderful option for those who want to utilize a filament that is environmentally friendly. PLA is also known for its beneficial flexibility properties and the fact that you can sand it smooth.
Nylon: Nylon is a more durable filament than ABS or PLA. It’s a versatile, lightweight, and budget-friendly alternative.
While it can be hard to pick the right filament, we guarantee that if you follow our considerations, you will be printing in no time at all!
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