How Do You Choose The Right 3d Printing Filament?

3D printing is not just about choosing your resin 3d printer but it's also crucial to choose the correct material to get the best outcomes. When faced with the overwhelming choice of different filaments, plastics and properties, it's always easy to locate your feet. Armor 3D can give you some suggestions on selecting your 3D filament, and the key questions to think about before purchasing an Bobbin!

The choice of printing filament is clearly dependent on the 3D printer you have. Each machine is different and may not accept all filaments on the market. Before choosing your material be sure to consider the particular features of your 3D printer. Remember to check:

The filament diameter. It's usually 1.75mm but could be 2.85mm.

The material used to make the print nozzle which affects the type of filament you will choose. Brass nozzles are most widespread and can be used to print common materials such as PLA, ABS, and nylon. It is recommended to use stainless or tempered steel nozzles when you're printing Abrasive or corrosive materials.

The maximum temperature of the extruder for industrial 3d printer is determined by whether the filament is fused at higher or lower temperatures. PLA, for example, has a printing temperature of between 190degC to 230degC while that of ABS is around 230degC - 250degC.

Heating plate: For some filaments, it's recommended to use heating plates to stop the filaments from separating. This applies to ABS and ASA, for example.

The selection of filaments does not just depend on the specifics of the 3d printer. it also affects the prints you wish to produce, from an aesthetic, mechanical and use perspective.

Mechanical properties

If you wish to obtain a solid and impact-resistant part it is recommended to choose ABS or polycarbonate filaments. If you're looking for the flexibility of a semi-rigid or flexible object, there are TPU or TPE-based materials that create parts that can be easily shaped. So it is vital to determine what 3D printed object will be used before choosing the right filament. If the item is in direct contact with food items, select a PET-based filament.

Aesthetic properties

It is important to choose which kind of finish you prefer matte or gloss? Should my part be smooth? Do I need my part to be translucent? These questions will impact the choice of 3D printer filament. There's many different hybrid materials generally composed of a PLA base as well as an additional material like bamboo, wood brick or cement that give the filament a completely different aspect and hence a distinct finish that is, in terms of color or texture.

You also need to choose the color and texture you would like and also the quality you want for your desired surface. For instance, the smaller the printing layer, less noticeable they'll appear.

Environmental properties

In addition, the selection of 3d modeling software is in addition to the setting in which printing will take place. Some plastics produce toxic VOCs when fusion occurs. These VOCs could prove hazardous in closed environment. It is recommended to print these filaments using an enclosed 3D printer, or outdoors. This applies for ABS also. It is also important to determine if the filament you are using is sensitive to humidity and if it should be kept in a dry location. Take note of the filament's resistance to water. In addition, look for signs that the filament has any smell In a space that is living, you should favor PLA, PHA or PET.

Advice from Armor 3D

In order to find the most suitable printing filament to your specific needs, Armor 3D recommends that you test a variety of kinds. Comparing different filaments is the best method of establishing their various options and what you require. Also, test different printing parameters, such as playing with extrusion temperature, print speed, the use of supports, and so on. There is no need to pick the most affordable filament. For superior quality prints, you can go for a slightly higher priced one.

The PLA 3D filament is recommended for beginners in 3D printing. It is one of the most popular materials in the 3D printing plastic market. It is extremely flexible when printing. It can be easily manipulated after printing and comes in a wide range of colors. It is biodegradable, and is more environmentally friendly than ABS, which is one of the most commonly used plastics in FDM 3D printing.