3D printing materials are designed to be heated and extruded in 3D printing machines. These materials are used to make three-dimensional structures. 3D printing materials resemble plastic threads. They are wrapped around spools, just like cotton or polyester thread is!
If you’re curious about 3D printing materials and you’re trying to decide which ones to buy for your 3D printer, you’ll find our detailed guide helpful. We’re here to discuss all of the different types of 3D printing materials and their properties.
Once you have the inside scoop on these materials, you’ll be primed to shop like an expert…
Nylon is One Popular Option
Nylon 3D printing material may also be referred to as Polyamide or White. It’s flexible and tough and has a white plastic finish. The minimum wall thickness of this type of filament is one millimeter. Its natural shade is white.
However, it’s possible to access nylon filament in other colors. This type of filament features ten layers per millimeter. It’s crafted from powder made from aluminum, polyamide, and alumide.
If you want to make structures with moving parts, you’ll be able to do so with Nylon 3D printing materials. As well, it will be possible to make interlocking designs.
PLA is a Biodegradable Filament
PLA filament is accepted by a lot of 3D printers for home use. This filament is biodegradable, which sets it apart. It’s made from polylactic acid and this 3D printing material is a plastic that is created without petroleum processes.
The key advantage of PLA is that it’s a filament that is easy to print with. This is why it’s a good choice for newbies who want to successfully print with their new 3D printers.
ABS Is Ideal for Home Usage
These days, a lot of people are buying 3D printers for their homes. Many of these home printers accept ABS filament. This type of 3D printing material is tough. It’s a durable plastic with Lego-like strength!
This filament comes in spaghetti–sized threads and a rainbow-riot of color options are available via online and brick-and-mortar retailers. The minimum wall thickness for ABS is 0.045 in. – 0.140 in. Usually, three layers per millimeter are needed to get this degree of thickness.
Resin is a Paintable Filament
This filament may also be called, “white” or “black” and it features high detail. As well, it’s transparent and it may be painted. While resin has some interesting properties, it is more delicate than many other types of 3D printing materials.
Also, it’s rather rigid. It’s made from a liquid form of photopolymer, which is cured via ultraviolet light. It comes in black, white, and clear, as well as a range of colors. Ten layers per millimeter are recommended and the minimum wall thickness is one millimeter.
Gypsum is Another Filament Option
This type of filament is also known as sandstone. It’s crafted from powder and it’s delicate and rigid. It is made in white but comes in a host of colors.
To use this filament, which isn’t typically accepted by the types of 3D printers that people buy to use at home, you’ll need to utilize ten layers per millimeter. The minimum wall thickness for this 3D printing material is two millimeters.
Metal is Also Used
Stainless steel, silver, and gold are also used to create durable structures. However, it’s safe to say that most people who use 3D printers at home don’t use stainless steel or precious metals. The home user will typically rely on ABS.
Which Filament Is Right For You?
When it comes to choosing the right filament, it’s all about what your home 3D printer will accept. They are all different and some 3D printers provide more options than others. In certain cases, a 3D printer owner will be locked into buying printing materials from the same brand that manufactured the printer.
In other cases, it will be possible to try different brands, as long as the right type of filament is selected (such as ABS). Most 3D printers which offer different filament options to owners do accept ABS and PLA.
Those are the two most popular printing materials for home-based 3D printers.
To save money on the cost of filament, read your Owner’s Manual, see what your printer will work with, and then shop around for it online. It may be possible to stock up online and access a lower cost per unit.
If you’re limited to your manufacturer’s line of filament products, you’ll find that ordering online, via your manufacturer’s official website, is a great way to get what you need, without needing to hit the local shops.
Now that you know more about 3D printing materials, you’ll be ready to look for a great deal on the right type of filament for your 3D printer.
