PLA (Polylactic Acid) is one of the two most commonly used desktop 3D printing filaments (with the other being ABS filament). It is the "default" recommended material for many desktop 3D printers, and with good reason - PLA is useful in a broad range of printing applications, has the virtue of being both odorless and low-warp, and does not require a heated bed. PLA filament is also one of the more eco-friendly 3D printer materials available; it is made from annually renewable resources (corn-starch) and requires less energy to process compared to traditional (petroleum-based) plastics. Outside of 3D printing, PLA plastic is often used in food containers, such as candy wrappers, and biodegradable medical implants, such as sutures. PLA filament for 3D Printing is available in a wide range of colors in both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PLA, check out How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.
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PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is another commonly used 3D printer material. Best used for making durable parts that need to withstand higher temperatures. In comparison to PLA filament, ABS plastic is less "brittle" and more "ductile." It can also be post-processed with acetone to provide a glossy finish. When 3D printing with ABS filament, a heated printing surface is recommended, as ABS plastic will contract when cooled leading to warped parts. ABS filament is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm diameter sizes. For tips and tricks on 3D printing ABS, check out How To Succeed When Printing With ABS.
ABS 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MatterHackers PRO Series PLA 3D printing filament is a high-quality material made with NatureWorks D Ingeo™, a polylactic acid biopolymer. Made in the USA, PRO Series PLA filament is designed to produce accurate and seamless 3D printed parts perfect for prototyping end-use parts, life-like models, or for taking your everyday 3D printing to a higher caliber. With a diameter and ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, PRO Series PLA produces better parts while keeping your printer running great. Available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm with spools ranging from 1kg up to 10lbs in weight, any prototyping or production needs can be met with PRO Series PLA. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series PLA, check out How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.
PRO Series PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MatterHackers PRO Series ABS 3D printing filament is formulated to highlight the best properties of the material, like strength and good interlayer adhesion. PRO Series ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) filament is an excellent material for functional prototyping and intricate end-use parts. PRO Series ABS can withstand temperatures of up to 85°C and has a tensile strength of up to PSI, making it the perfect solution for applications like fit testing, tooling, concept models, and even short-run manufacturing. Available in both 1.75mm and 2.85mm, PRO Series ABS is produced to more precise specifications and has an ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series ABS, check out How To Succeed When Printing With ABS.
PRO Series ABS 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Tough PLA takes the ease of use of regular PLA and steps it up. Where normal PLA will warp and soften from very little heat, Tough PLA has heat resistance up to 60°C. Some easily machinable materials like ABS come with their own hurdles, like overhangs, warping, and inter-layer adhesion, but this Tough PLA has been modified to be more machinable than traditional PLA and makes it more reliable than ABS for larger prints. Since it is PLA, it is still compatible with the usual support materials, giving you full geometric freedom when designing parts. Tough PLA is available only in 3mm or 1.75mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing Tough PLA check out the printing techniques used for PLA: How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.
Tough PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MatterHackers PRO Series Tough PLA 3D printing filament is engineered for strength and durability while taking advantage of the reliability and ease-of-use that PLA is known for - it's a powerful alternative to ABS. Made in the USA, PRO Series Tough PLA can't be beat for functional prototyping. Boasting a higher impact strength than standard PLA and a heat tolerance comparable to that of ABS, PRO Series Tough PLA is manufactured to ensure that your 3D prints perform as well as they look. Tough PLA is produced with a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm and is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm diameters. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series Tough PLA check out the printing techniques used for PLA: How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.
PRO Series Tough PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
ColorFabb nGen is the perfect filament for beginners or those who don't want to constantly refine print settings. Because this material prints well at a wide range of temperatures and speeds, you can spend less time refining your settings and more time printing. nGen flows very well through the print nozzle and does not clog often. This filament is great for creating durable parts while avoiding print failures and the need to adjust print settings. nGen has the astounding ability to print parts with many bridges successfully where other materials have failed. Additionally, nGen has a very opaque and crisp looking appearance when printed. Although best printed on a heated bed, BuildTak or a similar adhesive can minimize warping. nGen is available in a variety of colors in both 1.75mm and 3mm.
nGen 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Glow-in-the-dark filament is a great product to decorate children's bedrooms, from glowing light switches to a starry sky on the ceiling. Your prints will shine brightest immediately after turning out the lights, but dim quickly to a soft glow in the night. Use your normal print settings for PLA or ABS (depending on which is the base filament), but add more perimeters to your prints. The more perimeters, the more glow. Be aware, we have seen reports that Glow-in-the-dark filament is abrasive and has worn out nozzles; you may want to install a hardened steel nozzle to prevent wear out. Glow-in-the-dark filament is available with a PLA filament base and ABS filament base in both 1.75mm and 3mm diameter sizes. Glow in the Dark NinjaFlex (TPU) is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm as well.
Glow-in-the-dark 3D Printing Filament Properties:
NylonX 3D printing filament is an amazing, reinforced nylon filament. By adding micro-carbon fibers to nylon, you get a tough filament capable of printing parts with stiffness, impact resistance, and high tensile strength. NylonX filament is an engineering grade filament, ready for home 3D printing, which gives you the durability of Nylon combined with the stiffness of carbon fiber. The best part of NylonX is that the carbon fiber adds stability and rigidity, so parts are much less likely to warp than with standard nylon. With a unique matte black finish, NylonX eliminates post-print processing. Finished prints can immediately be moved to production with no sanding, polishing, scraping, or pesky acetone vapor baths. If you are already printing with Nylon, it's time to upgrade to Nylon X. NylonX is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing NylonX, check out A Closer Look at 3D Printing with NylonX.
NylonX 3D Printing Filament Properties:
NylonG 3D printing filament follows in the footsteps of NylonX with its rigidity and strength. While chopped carbon fiber strands make NylonX awesome, they firmly cement NylonX as a black colored filament. NylonG uses chopped glass fibers instead, allowing it to be available in a variety of colors, like red, white, and blue! The chopped glass fibers give benefits similar to carbon fiber; the parts are stiffer and less prone to warping than regular nylon, but the glass fibers make the 3D printed part extremely impact resistant. NylonG is 33% more resistant to impact than NylonX! With a matte finish, NylonG eliminates post-3D print processing - finished prints need no sanding to look production ready. NylonG is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing NylonG check out the printing techniques used for NylonX:A Closer Look at 3D Printing with NylonX.
NylonG 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Nylon is an incredibly strong, durable, and versatile 3D printing material. Flexible when thin, but with very high inter-layer adhesion, nylon lends itself well to things like living hinges and other functional parts. Nylon filament prints as a bright natural white with a translucent surface, and can absorb color added post process with most common, acid-based clothing dyes or synthetic cloth specific dyes. Nylon filament is extremely sensitive to moisture, so taking drying measures during storage and immediately prior to printing (using desiccant, vacuum, or elevated temperature) is highly recommended for best results. Taulman Nylon is a specially formulated 3D printing Nylon filament that comes in a variety of sizes and packages, including 1-, 2-, and 3-packs of both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing Nylon, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Nylon.
Nylon 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MatterHackers PRO Series Nylon 3D printing filament is a great solution for 3D printed parts that require strength and durability. PRO Series Nylon is a versatile material that is characteristically flexible but can also be exceptionally tough, making it perfect for impact-resistant parts that require shock absorption. Engineers, designers, and manufacturers turn to PRO Series Nylon filament for its mechanical stability, low coefficient of friction, and natural chemical resistance. Produced to a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, PRO Series Nylon filament is available in both 1.75mm and 2.85mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing Nylon, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Nylon.
PRO Series Nylon 3D Printing Filament Properties:
You'll be hard pressed to find true PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) filament, as most PET filaments are actually copolymers - PET with an extra molecule. The most common, PETG filament, is an industrial strength filament with several great features. Figuratively speaking, it combines the ease of use of PLA filament with the strength and durability of ABS filament. First, its strength is much higher than PLA and it is FDA approved for food containers and tools used for food consumption. Unlike ABS filament, it barely warps, and produces no odors or fumes when printed. PET filament is not biodegradable, but it is 100% reclaimable. It's known for its clarity and is also very good at bridging. PET 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PETG, check out How To Succeed When Printing With PETG.
PET 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MatterHackers PRO Series PETG 3D printing filament is an exceptionally tough and sturdy material that is a terrific alternative to PLA and ABS. PETG filament has incredible minimal shrinkage, making it a great solution for parts that need to be impact resistant and pliable. MatterHackers PRO Series PETG filament is specifically formulated to enhance PETG's natural properties, like durability, heat and chemical resistance, and ease-of-use. PETG 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm with a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PETG, check out How To Succeed When Printing With PETG.
PRO Series PETG 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MatterHackers PRO Series Ryno 3D printing filament is a professional level copolyester perfect for strong, functional prototypes. Capable of yielding clean, durable, and complex prints, PRO Series Ryno is formulated to have superior bridging properties and temperature and chemical resistance. Excellent for industrial modeling, end-use parts, tooling, and more, Ryno's versatility and ease-of-use make it a solid choice for not only professional printing, but everyday projects as well. Produced with a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, RYNO 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm.
PRO Series RYNO 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) was developed as an alternative to ABS. With a number of additional features, like improved weather resistance and resistance to yellowing from UVs, making it an excellent choice for parts or prints meant for outdoor use. Where white ABS will turn a pale yellow over time, ASA will remain a bright white for much longer. ASA has print settings very similar to ABS with only the printing temperature being different. ASA filament is available in several colors in both 1.75mm and 3mm.
ASA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
PolyPropylene filament (PP) has a number of uses as a 3D printing material. Its best use is for packaging, food-safe containers, and living hinges. Polypropylene material has a much better ability to elongate without breaking when compared to PLA filament. It also resists impact better than PLA as well. Where PLA plastic tends to shatters and snap while Polypropylene plastic bends and squeezes into place. However, Polypropylene can be difficult to stick well to most print surfaces, including glass, kapton tape, PEI, and some packaging tapes. Most packaging tape is made with Polypropylene and it will stick to that, otherwise it won't work. With the right type of packaging tape, a bed temperature of 120°C and an extrusion temperature of 240°C produces great prints. PolyPropylene filament is available in a clear color in 3mm
PolyPropylene 3D Printing Filament Properties:
TPE filament is a flexible 3D printing material that feels and acts much like flexible rubber. TPE filament can be used to make parts that can bend or must flex to fit their environment: stoppers, belts, springs, cases, and more. This extremely flexible 3D printer material will allow you to create 3D prints that will have the properties of a soft rubber, making it even more flexible and elastic than our Soft PLA filament. Due to its flexibility, much slower print speeds must be used to keep the filament from binding in the extruder. TPE 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.
TPE 3D Printing Filament Properties:
PCTPE (Plasticized Copolyamide TPE) is another great filament by Taulman. It is a combination of Nylon and TPE. When printed, it's flexible like normal TPE, but the added Nylon means this filament will work even in a bowden setup. It has very low shrinkage and can be dyed with any acid based color thanks to the wonderful properties of nylon. Print settings are closest to ABS filament, with a print temp of 235°C and most other settings the same. PCTPE 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.
PCTPE 3D Printing Filament Properties:
LAYBRICK is a 3D printing material that gives parts the look and feel of grey stone while retaining the resiliency of plastic, making it ideal for landscape and architectural designs. Anything made with LAYBRICK can be painted and sanded. In the lower range of 165°C to 190°C, the print will come out mostly smooth, whereas with higher temperatures it will begin to have a more pitted, sandstone-like texture. LAYBRICK is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.
LAYBRICK 3D Printing Filament Properties:
LAYWOO-D3, ColorFabb's Woodfill series, and Timberfill are wood-like 3D printer materials that give 3D printed objects the look and feel of fiberboard. They imbue parts with other wood-like attributes, such as the ability be cut, painted, and sanded. These filaments use PLA as their base, and mix other materials (usually in powder form)into them. The PLA gives the 3D printer compatibility and ease of use while the material contributes to the look, feel, and properties of the filament. With Woodfill, LAYWOO-D3, and Timberfill, you get the color and texture of real wood with your finished prints, but with Corkfill, you get the added benefit of its light weight. With these organic fills, be cautious of too high of a temperature, as it will result in the wood burning which will give you a darker colored print. It is important to remove the filament from the extruder fairly soon after finishing a print, as the filament will begin to burn in the nozzle and start to clog it. These filaments are all available in both 1.75mm or 3mm unspooled and spooled rolls.
Wood PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
LayCeramic filament is clay engineered for 3D Printers that can be used to make ceramic objects. LayCeramic has all the capabilities of normal clay including the ability to be fired and glazed to give it a nice glossy look and increase strength. 3D Printing with LayCeramic will require a few additional upgrades to your Printer including a full metal hotend, a filament warmer (LayCeramic is brittle), and a kiln which isn't necessary, but part of the clay sculpting process. LayCeramic filament is available in 3mm.
LayCeramic 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Proto Pasta Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA filament provides excellent structural strength and layer adhesion with very low warpage. Due to the carbon fiber contained in the filament, it has increased rigidity, therefore increased structural support is built right in. The carbon fiber in the filament is specifically designed to be small enough to fit through the nozzles, but long enough to provide the extra rigidity that makes this reinforced PLA necessary for any hobbyist that needs rugged prints. Carbon Fiber filament is perfect for printing items that should not bend, such as: frames, supports, propellers, and tools. Drone builders and RC Hobbyists love this filament, and it is made in the USA. Due to its high abrasion, before printing you will need to install a hardened steel nozzle on your printer. Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.
Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
These metal infused PLA filaments are tougher to print than MH Build PLA filament, but because of the metal blended with the plastic, prints are heavier and thus, feel more authentic. Finished 3D prints can be sanded and polished to create beautiful and unique pieces. Unpolished, the filament looks like cast metal fresh from a mold, with a dull, matte, gritty appearance. With just a little finishing and polishing, however, you can easily create any look like you desire. 3D Printing with these metals is perfect for printing jewelry, props, costumes, figurines, and robots. These filaments are great not only for hobbyists looking to make faux metal prints, but serious designers as well. BrassFill, BronzeFill, and CopperFill are available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.
3D Printing Filament Properties:
These steel PLA filaments are tougher to print than MH Build PLA , but because of the steel fibers blended with the plastic, prints are heavier and thus, feel more authentic. Finished steel 3D prints can be sanded and polished to create beautiful and unique pieces. Unpolished, the Stainless Steel filament looks like cast metal fresh from a mold. With just a little finishing and polishing, however, you can easily create any look like you desire. 3D Printing Steel is perfect for printing jewelry, props, costumes, figurines, and robots. These steel filaments are great not only for hobbyists looking to make faux metal prints, but serious designers as well. Due to its high abrasion, before printing you will need to install a hardened steel nozzle on your printer. These filaments are available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.
3D Printing Filament Properties:
Magnetic Iron PLA filament is truly one of a kind. Because of the iron powder blended into the PLA filament, this Iron filament is magnetic. The filament itself isn't a magnet, but magnets will stick to it. We recommend a printing temperature that is about 10-20 degrees lower than you would print with MH Build PLA material. To get a rusty look, "scuff" your finished print with a wire brush to expose more of the iron particles to the air. Then, spray vinegar onto your print and let it dry, doing this three or our times. Mix 16oz of hydrogen peroxide with 2oz of vinegar and 1 Tbs of salt in a spray bottle, and spray the print and watch as it rusts in front of you. Let dry and repeat as many times as desired. Magnetic Iron PLA filament can bring a worn and rusty look to any print. Due to its high abrasion, before printing you will need to install a hardened steel nozzle on your printer. Proto Pasta Magnetic Iron PLA filament is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.
Magnetic Iron 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Lay-Felt, Gel-Lay, and Lay-Fomm 40 and 60 can all be characterized as highly porous and flexible filaments.These materials are made from a rubber-elastomeric polymer and a PVA-component. This means that part of this filament is water soluble, and once you soak this material in water, the PVA component dissolves and disappears and the rubber polymer remains as your micro-porous object. Lay-Felt is ideal for making filters, 3D membranes, semipermeable membranes, and any flexible yet felt-like object.
PORO-LAY Series 3D Printing Filament Properties:
Bendlay is an exciting new filament that is extremely translucent (91% of light passes through) and also is quite flexible. This extremely translucent material will allow you to print nearly clear items, while at the same time being remarkably resilient and elastic. BendLay is a modified Butadiene, which is safe for household and food products. BendLay has a high interlayer adhesion, making it a really easy-to-print filament. Compared to ABS filament, it absorbs far less moisture from the air and thus cuts down on warping significantly. Bendlay filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.
BendLay 3D Printing Filament Properties:
MoldLay is a material specifically engineered for moldmaking. Use MoldLay filament to 3D print objects that you want to make a mold of OR investment cast. MoldLay will easily melt out of negative impressions with very little residue. It is structurally sound with zero warping so you will get a mold of exactly what you print. MoldLay filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.
MoldLay 3D Printing Filament Properties:
PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) filament prints translucent with a slightly yellow tint and is primarily used as a 3D printing support material because it is water-soluble, meaning that it will dissolve when exposed to water (and so MUST be kept dry prior to use). PVA is most often used with 3D printers capable of dual extrusion: one extruder printing a primary material (such as ABS or PLA) and the other printing this dissolvable filament to provide support for overhanging features. PVA 3D printer filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.
PVA 3D Printing Filament Properties:
LAY-CLOUD is a 3D printing support material designed to support your flexible filament prints. As it is meant to dissolve in water it must be kept in its resealable bag, otherwise it will begin to absorb water. When LAY-CLOUD begins to absorb water, it will start to gel, and when has absorbed as much water as it can, the support material will collapse and turn gooey. LAY-CLOUD is best printed at 240°C to achieve the best print viscosity. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, LAY-CLOUD is the best support material for flexible filaments. LAY-CLOUD is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.
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LAY-CLOUD 3D Printing Filament Properties:
HIGH-T-LAY is a 3D printing support material designed to quickly dissolve in water. Because it is water soluble, it must be kept in its resealable bag, otherwise it will begin to absorb water. HIGH-T-LAY is best printed at 240°C to achieve the best print viscosity. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, because HIGH-T-LAY prints similarly to HIPS, it is best utilized to avoid that limonene stink when supporting your ABS prints. HIGH-T-LAY is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.
HIGH-T-LAY 3D Printing Filament Properties:
ETHY-LAY is a 3D printing support material designed to dissolve in alcohol. Because it is alcohol soluble, it doesn't need to be kept with a desiccant or in a dry environment. When printing with water-sensitive filaments like Nylon, a support material that doesn't need water to be dissolved is ideal. ETHY-LAY is best printed at the low temperature of 165°C to achieve the best print viscosity. In addition, though helpful, it will print just fine without a heated bed. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, ETHY-LAY is best used for Nylon, NylonX, NylonG, and bio prints. ETHY-LAY is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.
ETHY-LAY 3D Printing Filament Properties:
PLA - Aesthetic Elegance in Every Layer Seeking a visual masterpiece for your prototypes or display items? Look no further than PLA, the maestro of a smooth and glossy finish that captivates the eye. Marvel at its polished appearance, perfect for projects where aesthetics take centre stage. However, tread carefully if functionality is your muse, as PLA, with its lower heat resistance and brittleness, may not dance to the tune of robust functionality.
Easy to print
Brittle
Affordable
Low resistance to higher temperatures
Great for prototpying
Sensitive to moisture
PETG - The Versatile Virtuoso Enter PETG, the versatile virtuoso of the 3D printing stage! Striking the perfect chord between strength and flexibility, PETG emerges as a dynamic alternative to PLA. Picture this: resilience against water, chemicals, and fatigue, making PETG the go-to option for durability without compromising flexibility. It's the love child of ABS and PLA, showcasing superior strength (without reaching ABS extremes) and enhanced flexibility (without sacrificing too much like PLA). PETG steals the spotlight, addressing the shortcomings of both its filament predecessors.
Notably stiffer than PLA, PETG claims its territory, especially in the industrial arena. But that's not all—PETG can flex its muscles even more with carbon fibre reinforcement, elevating its strength while donning a premium price tag. While PLA can also dabble in carbon fibre reinforcements, PETG takes the crown, showcasing its inherent strength rooted in polymer dynamics. PETG stands tall in crafting components that dance between flexibility and shock resistance, creating a symphony of possibilities.
Strong and durable
Less colors and blends available
Higher UV resistance
Prone to warping and cracking
Resistant to heat and chemicals
Difficult to post process
When it comes to facing the elements, PETG and PLA stand side by side, both lacking a UV protection halo. Yet, when we are looking at the question of PLA vs PETG, PETG shines a bit brighter against the onslaught of heat and UV exposure, standing resilient for extended periods. Safety takes centre stage with PETG and PLA, outclassing potential health hazards posed by ABS. While non-poisonous, a prudent approach is advised, considering the uncertainty surrounding the emission of fumes from any material.
Printing with PLA is favoured for its low printing temperature, typically ranging from 200-220°C. This makes PLA a user-friendly choice, as it adheres well to various bed surfaces, eliminating the necessity for a heated bed. Thanks to its low thermal expansion, warping issues are minimized, making PLA an excellent option for beginners. On the contrary, PETG demands a higher printing temperature, typically falling between 220-250°C. To prevent warping, a heated bed is recommended for PETG, and users should be mindful of ventilation, as PETG emits fumes during the printing process.
Digging deeper into technical aspects, both PLA and PETG share notable similarities. Both are renowned for their user-friendly printing characteristics. PLA stands out as one of the simplest materials for 3D printing, making it a go-to for beginners. This simplicity is largely attributed to its lower printing temperatures, not requiring a heated bed or a closed chamber. PLA's optimal extrusion temperature ranges between 190-220°C, notably lower than PETG.
PETG, while considered user-friendly, falls slightly behind PLA in terms of ease. It doesn't demand a closed chamber, contributing to its straightforward printing process. However, due to the higher temperature requirements, PETG necessitates a heated printing bed, potentially limiting printer options for some users. Printing with PETG typically requires higher temperatures, ranging from 220-260°C, with the heating bed temperature ideally set between 75 and 90°C. It's worth noting that starting to print with PETG may pose initial challenges, unlike the smooth initiation with PLA. Yet, with proper settings, PETG is recognized for its easy extrusion and high thermal stability.
Both materials share a common concern regarding clogging printer heads due to their high viscosity. However, it's crucial to recognize that this challenge is not unique to PLA vs PETG, as many polymers face similar issues. Users shouldn't see it as a negative reflection on either material.
Nozzle size: ≥ 0.1mm
Layer height: ≥ 0.05mm
Enclosure needed: No
Print temp: ± 200 – 220° C
Fan speed: 50-100%
Experience level: Beginner
Heat bed: ± 50 – 60° C
Adhesive: EasyFil Nr. I
Nozzle size: ≥ 0.15mm
Layer height: ≥ 0.05mm
Enclosure needed: No
Print temp: ± 230 – 245° C
Fan speed: 10-25%
Experience level: Beginner
Heat bed: ± 80 – 90° C
Adhesive: EasyFil Nr. I
Post-processing is an essential aspect of 3D printing, and both PLA vs PETG can be sanded, painted, or smoothed with various techniques. However, PLA is generally easier to post-process due to its lower melting point. PETG, being more heat-resistant, requires careful handling during sanding and smoothing to avoid overheating and deformation.
One significant distinction between PETG and PLA is that post-processing is easier. PLA offers a greater range of post-processing options and is often easier to implement. Support structures, on the other hand, might be difficult to remove from PETG due to the material's adhesive qualities. To be successful, support structures must be spaced apart from the real model by at least 0.5mm; else, the printed part's structure may be damaged.
Sanding, on the other hand, is an effective post-processing technique for both used to smooth the surface of an item, making it an extremely useful tool for people working with FDM procedures (which are utilized for both PETG and PLA filaments). This Technique is considered to be significantly easier with PETG, making it handy for anyone looking for a glossy finish (which PETG is also known for), but it is not difficult to perform with PLA. Plus, PLA offers more alternatives.
Another issue, particularly for those wishing to use printed parts as decoration or props, is that it's easy to paint PLA, but PETG doesn't allow for easy painting. PETG is noted for its ability to be transparent, which has its own benefits.
Finally, we want to mention the option of smoothing 3D prints with epoxy resins. Resins are a commonly used product that is made specifically for smoothing and finishing 3D printed models. It works generally by mixing two liquids and applying it evenly. After the curing time has passed, the model will have a glossy, smooth finish.
This method not only addresses imperfections but also brings out the intricate details of the printed object. It serves as a transformative step, taking a 3D print to a whole new level of professional-looking quality. The use of epoxy resins, opens up possibilities for achieving finishes that meet the highest aesthetic standards in the world of 3D printing.
The choice between PLA and PETG often depends on the intended application. PLA is excellent for simple prototype iterations, artistic creations, and objects that don't require high durability. PETG, on the other hand, is suitable for functional parts, mechanical components, and objects exposed to more demanding conditions. Its higher durability and resistance to heat and chemicals make it a preferred option for more durable prototypes, and engineering applications.
PLA and PETG applications overlap significantly. They are both employed in the food, medicinal, costume/prop production, and decorative components industries, but each material demonstrates its excellence in unique ways. For example, while considering PETG, the first application that comes to mind is the food business.
PET(G) is a substance used to produce water-resistant and durable containers, such as plastic bottles. Not to mention, PET(G) accounts for 18% of global plastic manufacturing, indicating that it is safe for contact with food. PETG has similar qualities, and it is FDA-approved.
The enhanced water resistance and superior heat resilience render qualities of PETG makes it an excellent choice for manufacturing various items. This characteristic makes PETG particularly well-suited for applications where exposure to water or elevated temperatures is a concern. On the other hand, PLA is also considered food-safe, although to a slightly lesser degree than PETG. While PLA has found application in the food industry, its lower water resistance compared to PETG may limit its suitability for certain food-related uses.
In terms of aesthetics, PLA outperforms PETG. As previously stated, PLA can be painted far more readily than PETG. Because the support structures are easily removed, more complicated, detailed pieces can be produced, making it ideal for ornamental elements and cosplay props.
Furthermore, one particularly intriguing aspect of PLA is that it is frequently used to simulate different materials. It can be used to generate hybrid filaments by combining PLA with other materials.
When it comes to cost, PLA is generally more affordable than PETG. The raw materials used in PLA production are readily available and cost-effective, contributing to its lower market price. PETG, with its enhanced properties and durability, tends to be slightly more expensive.
PLA is commonly assumed to be substantially cheaper than PETG, but this is not always the case.
Something to keep in mind with both materials is that what causes the price to change is the quality of the filament; both materials can vary dramatically in quality, from low-grade filament intended for amateurs to semi-industrial materials. Also, any PLA or PETG filaments containing other components, like as carbon fiber, will be more expensive.
When looking for filament, compare PLA vs PETG based on your individual demands.
Ultimately, the choice between PLA and PETG depends on your specific requirements and the intended use of your 3D prints. If you prioritize eco-friendliness, ease of use, and lower cost, ReFill PLA or our ReForm rPLA may be the right choice for you.
On the other hand, if you need stronger, more durable prints with resistance to heat and chemicals, EasyFil PETG is worth considering.
It's often beneficial for users to experiment with PLA vs PETG to test these different types of filaments to understand their unique characteristics and determine which best suits their individual projects.
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