{"id":171167,"date":"2023-08-22T09:19:03","date_gmt":"2023-08-22T07:19:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.islabit.com\/en\/?p=171167"},"modified":"2023-08-22T09:19:06","modified_gmt":"2023-08-22T07:19:06","slug":"how-to-buy-the-right-filament-for-your-3d-printer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.islabit.com\/en\/171167\/how-to-buy-the-right-filament-for-your-3d-printer.html","title":{"rendered":"How to buy the right filament for your 3D printer"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

In order to make filament spools for a 3D printer there are different types<\/strong>. Each one offers certain properties and characteristics, but they also include specific usage conditions. Before you purchase filament is important to know the melting temperature and the temperature range that your 3D printer\u2019s nozzle can attain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to functionality, 3D printers are pretty straightforward<\/strong>. You have to load a 3D design and initiate the printing. The filament is then drawn into the extruder, heated, and then extruded through the nozzle. To create the object according to the input file the printer moves continuously. The most common mistake is not taking into account the nozzle and filament temperatures. Each nozzle has a maximum operating temperature, and filament has a range of temperatures at which it melts. If the melting temperature of the material is higher than the extruder\u2019s nozzle temperature, there\u2019s a problem.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Different<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The temperatures and how to choose the right filament for a 3D printer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before you purchase a filament<\/strong>, you have to know the melting temperature and the nozzle\u2019s extruder temperature. In case the material\u2019s temperature exceeds your 3D printer\u2019s capability, the results will be disastrous. It can lead to a blockage that requires replacing the entire extruder or a defective print.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In order to avoid this issue, we explore the melting temperatures of several filaments. It\u2019s important to always check the specifications before buying. The melting temperature of the material should always be listed. If the filament vendor does not provide the temperature ranges, you should look for another vender. It\u2019s a crucial parameter when buying a 3D printer filament<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PLA (Polylactic Acid)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is currently the most popular due to its ease of use, non-toxic nature<\/strong>, and biodegradability. It\u2019s derived from corn starch. The melting temperature ranges from 180\u00b0C to 230\u00b0C. It\u2019s thanks to these temperatures that the compatibility is higher with almost all market-available extruders.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another very popular and extensively used in industries like mobile phones<\/strong> and automobiles. It\u2019s known for its flexibility and good impact resistance. It\u2019s a material that withstands temperatures between -20\u00b0C and up to 80\u00b0C after processing.  Although it\u2019s useful, it also has certain drawbacs. ABS is toxic so you should use It in a well-ventilated area or, ideally, in a closed 3D printer. The filament requires melting temperatures between 210\u00b0C and 250\u00b0C. You should also note that it tends to deform when cooling and it can potentially ruin the print.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This kind of material is used to make plastic bottles found in supermarkets<\/strong>. It\u2019s inert and ideal for creating food-contact parts. It offers a good resistance and is semi-rigid. It doesn\u2019t release odors during printing. Being 100% recyclable, many users collect bottles to create filament at no cost. PETG melts at temperatures that range from 220\u00b0C to 250\u00b0C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nylon<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Another filament for a 3D printer<\/strong> is nylon. It offers you high hardness, flexibility and durability. It\u2019s used primarily in industries and comes with the drawback of being difficult to use and needing open spaces. The operating temperatures range from 240\u00b0C to 260\u00b0C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

PC (Polycarbonate)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

PC is a widely used material for engineering applications<\/strong>. It can withstand high temperatures, but it tends to absorb moisture from the air. It requires storing it in airtight containers to maintain performance and strength. The challenge when using PC in 3D printers is that it needs temperatures that go from 270\u00b0C to 310\u00b0C to melt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This quite flexible and durable material<\/strong> is very common in the automotive industry. It\u2019s a derivative of rubber (TPE) that offers greater rigidity and durability. It\u2019s often used to make smartphone cases<\/a>. The good news is that it requires melting temperatures between 210\u00b0C and 230\u00b0C which is quite similar to PLA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

ASA is similar in characteristics and properties to ABS<\/strong> but with greater UV resistance. It\u2019s excellent for creating parts exposed to the elements, although it absorbs moisture. It is also toxic, so it requires well-ventilated spaces or enclosed 3D printers. There are two types of ASA, affecting melting temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n