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What Is 3D Printer Filament? A Comprehensive Guide
What are 3D Printer Filaments? How do they work? What are they made from? which should I buy?
3D printers can be a minefield, from printers, filaments, extruders, and hot plates, getting your head around the lexicon can be complicated. Find out here exactly what filaments are and how they are used, we'll also break down some of our favourite filaments!
Table of Contents
- What is 3D Printer Filament?
- Different Types of 3D Printer Filaments Available in the Market
- How Does 3D Printer Filament Work?
- What are the benefits?
- Choosing the Right Filament for Your Project
- Conclusion
3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing and product development, making it possible to produce complex designs quickly and easily. At the heart of this technology is 3D printer filament, the material that makes 3D printing possible. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what 3D printer filament is, how it works, the different types available, and how to choose the right filament for your project.
What is 3D Printer Filament?
3D printer filament is a plastic material that is used to create 3D prints. The filament is fed into the 3D printer, where it is melted and extruded onto a print bed to create a 3D object. Filament is sold in spools and comes in a variety of colours, types, and sizes. The most common types of 3D printer filaments are PLA (polylactic acid) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), although there are many other types of filaments available as well.
Different Types of 3D Printer Filaments Available in the Market
There are many different types of 3D printer filaments available in the market, each with their own unique properties. Some of the most popular types of filaments include:
-
PLA (polylactic acid):
a biodegradable and environmentally friendly plastic that is easy to print and comes in a wide range of colours -
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene):
a strong and durable plastic that is resistant to high temperatures and comes in a range of colours -
PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol):
a transparent and flexible plastic that is easy to print and ideal for creating objects that require transparency -
Nylon:
a strong and flexible material that is ideal for creating objects that require strength and durability, such as gears and structural parts -
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane):
a flexible and rubber-like material that is ideal for creating objects that require flexibility and elasticity, such as phone cases and shoe soles
How Does 3D Printer Filament Work?
The process of using 3D printer filament to create 3D prints is fairly simple. The filament is loaded into the 3D printer and fed through the extruder, which melts the filament and extrudes it onto a print bed. The printer's computer reads a 3D file and moves the extruder head in a specific pattern to create the desired shape. Once the print is complete, the print bed is lowered, and the finished object can be removed.
What are the benefits?
Each type of 3D printer filament has its own unique properties, which can affect the quality and strength of the final print. For example, ABS filament is a strong and durable material, but it can be difficult to print and has a strong smell when heated. On the other hand, PLA filament is easy to print and comes in a variety of colours, but it is not as strong as other materials and can be brittle.
In addition to the type of filament, there are other factors to consider when choosing a filament for a specific project. The size of the filament is important, as it needs to fit the printer's extruder. The temperature at which the filament needs to be printed is also an important factor to consider, as some materials require higher temperatures to melt and extrude properly. The quality of the filament can also affect the final print, as lower quality filaments may contain impurities that can cause defects or inconsistencies in the final print.
The type of filament you use may also be dependant on the features of your printer, remember some filament like PET-G and TPU require a closed heat regulated environment, so an open case 3D printer just won't cut it.
Choosing the Right Filament for Your Project
When selecting a filament for a specific project, it's essential to consider the properties of the material and the requirements of the project. For example, if you are printing a part that needs to be strong and durable, a nylon or ABS filament may be the best choice. If you are printing a part that needs to be transparent or flexible, a PETG or TPU filament may be the best choice.
In addition to the properties of the filament, it's critical to consider the colour and finish of the filament. Some filaments come in a range of colours, while others have a matte or glossy finish. Choosing the right colour and finish can enhance the visual appeal of the final print.
Conclusion
3D printer filament is the key to creating complex and intricate 3D prints. Understanding the properties of different types of filament and deciding the right filament for a specific project is essential to producing high-quality prints. By considering the properties of the filament, the requirements of the project, and the desired finish of the final print, you can select the right filament and create prints that are strong, durable, and visually appealing.
Additional Rescources:
3D Printer Filament FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of 3D printer filaments are available?
What is the difference between PLA and ABS filaments?
PLA is a biodegradable plastic that is easy to print and environmentally friendly. ABS, on the other hand, is stronger and more durable, but can be more difficult to print and produces unpleasant fumes.
Can 3D printer filaments be recycled?
Yes, many types of 3D printer filaments can be recycled, although the process can vary depending on the material. For example, PLA can be recycled by melting it down and extruding it into new filaments, while ABS can be recycled by dissolving it in a chemical solvent.
What is the optimal temperature for printing 3D printer filaments?
The optimal temperature for printing 3D printer filaments varies depending on the type of filament. For example, PLA is typically printed at temperatures between 180°C and 220°C, while ABS is typically printed at temperatures between 230°C and 250°C.
Can 3D printer filaments be stored for a long time?
YYes, 3D printer filaments can be stored for a long time if they are kept in a cool, dry place away from moisture and sunlight. Some filaments, such as PLA, can be particularly sensitive to moisture, which can cause them to become brittle and difficult to print. It's a good idea to store filaments in airtight containers or bags with desiccant packets to absorb moisture.
What is the difference between 1.75mm and 3mm filament?
The difference between 1.75mm and 3mm filament is their diameter. 1.75mm filament is thinner and typically used for smaller, more detailed prints, while 3mm filament is thicker and used for larger, more structural prints.
How much filament do I need for a 3D print?
The amount of filament you need for a 3D print depends on the size and complexity of the object, as well as the type of filament you are using. You can typically estimate the amount of filament you will need by using a 3D printing slicer software, which will calculate the amount of filament based on the object's dimensions and infill percentage.
How do I troubleshoot filament feeding issues?
Filament feeding issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a clogged nozzle, improper bed leveling, or incorrect temperature settings. To troubleshoot the issue, try cleaning the nozzle, leveling the bed, adjusting the temperature settings, or checking the filament for knots or tangles. You can contact us for help trouble shooting or see our trouble shooting guide.
Which 3D Printer Filament Should I Buy?
Buying the correct filament can seem daunting, there are so many brands and vairants available. Sometimes it feels easiest to jsut buy the cheapest one. However a good quality PLA can make all the difference to your prints, paying a few pounds more can mean the difference bettween a poor and high quality print. Here are some of our favourite types:
1. Creality HP-Ultra PLA
A high quality PLA, designed to give you ultra smooth silky layers, will get the best out of every print!
2. Creality CR-PLA
A mid range PLA, that will give you excellent prints, at a great price, great for protoyping and prints that dont require a superb finish.