How To Choose 3d Printer Filaments: 5 Things To Consider
3D printing is an exciting field due to a variety of reasons.
There are many possibilities which can be difficult to decide on the best 3D printing material. If you look at the various filaments available, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which is right for you. Each filament has its unique properties, applications, and characteristics to consider... Where do you begin?
This blog article will offer suggestions on how to select 3d printing miniatures depending on the various properties. This post will give an outline of. To learn more about the technical properties of the filaments we use look through our technical datasheets.
The most important factor
There is no need to choose the most expensive material. These materials can be more expensive and difficult to print. But, they do not necessarily add value to your printed piece. You shouldn't be afraid to use more basic materials, particularly when they're more in line with the final purpose of your project.
How to Select 3D Filaments for Printing
Filaments for Beginners
If you are a beginner in 3D printing, some materials are easier for you to use as you learn about the process. PLA and PETG are the most popular materials for beginners.
PLA is usually the most popular material in 3D printing, specifically for beginners. PLA is cheap and simple to print in a standard configuration. PLA isn’t just for beginners. PLA is used by many manufacturers and designers for prototyping and tooling.
PET-G is another excellent filament for beginners. PET-G is easy to print and has similar properties to ABS. ABS is a higher-level material. PET-G prints with BCN3D's Cura standard configuration for great results.
Advanced and Professional Users
PP, ABS, PA, ABS, PP and TPU are considered to be mid-level filaments because they can print more complex designs. You can use a standard profile for these materials, but you might need to modify the settings in Cura or the software you use to print.
Professional users might use materials like PPGF30 and PAHT CF15, which comprise carbon fiber and glass fiber in the form of carbon fiber and glass fiber. They are considered to be more professional materials because they are also more difficult to print, and also because you need a special hot-end to print the filaments.
Materials for Prototyping and Tooling
A common use of 3D printing is the creation of prototypes and tools that help aid in manufacturing. PLA and PETG are the most popular materials. However, if your tool or prototype has to stand up to extreme temperatures, chemical or physical pressure, you may want to consider using TPU or ABS.
For tooling, you should consider materials with more strength and durability. One option is a carbon fiber-based material such as PAHTCF15 which is more resistant to wear and tear.
Commercial Use
If you are making a product that will need to be commercially ready in the near future, you'll likely select a mid-grade or professional product, such as PA, PAHT CF15 or TPU.
TPU's main characteristic is its flexibility and durable. TPU is a great option for products that require flexibility and durability.
If you're looking for a more professional appearance carbon fiber material is an ideal choice since it looks sleek while also extremely durable.
Applications with high-stress
Along with the above factors the print you are designing may need to be weighed against other high-stress properties, like weather chemical, heat or capabilities.
PP is ideal for outdoor use as it can withstand harsh environments.
The PA, PP Cf15, and PP GF30 are good alternatives if you need filaments that are resistant to corrosive substances, with both PP and PPGF30 being the strongest options for this type of use.
ABS PET-G, PET-G, and PAHT CF15 are the ideal materials for printing which require the extreme heat.
If your print is exposed to water, think about using PP, PA, or PAHT CF15 since they are water-resistant materials.
Conclusion
As you'd expect you can imagine, we've barely begun to scratch the surface when it comes to the considerations for 3D printing materials. The final choice of the 3D printing product you choose will be based on a number of factors. Learn more about 3D printing, as well as try out and test different materials.