3D filament - 3D printer plastic material

Additive manufacturing methods have revolutionized the way we create objects. At the heart of this technology is the 3D printer filament. The quality of the material is important for building objects that are made by the machines layer by layer.
Choosing the right filament can be difficult. There are many different types, each with unique properties. Understanding them can feel overwhelming, but can improve your projects.

PLA is a popular choice for beginners. It is easy to use and environmentally friendly. However, there are other options such as ABS, PETG and more which we describe on this page.
This guide will help you navigate the world of 3D printer filaments and discover the best materials for your needs.

What is 3D printer filament?

3D printer filament is the material used in 3D printers to make objects. It comes in long, coiled strands that the printer melts and lays down layer by layer.
The diameter of the filament is usually 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm. This affects compatibility with different printers and printing precision. Choosing the right diameter is crucial for optimal results.
Filaments are made from different materials, each with different properties. Here is a list of common filament materials:

PLA (polylactic acid)
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene)
PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol)
Nylon (Polyamide)
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)

The materials come wound on rolls and are available in different shapes and colors.

Common types of 3D printer filament

There are many different types of printer filaments, and each type is suitable for different uses. PLA, ABS, and PETG are some of the most popular options due to their unique properties.
Nylon and TPU add to the diversity with their distinct advantages in terms of strength and flexibility. The choice of the right filament depends on the desired print quality and application.
Let us guide you further!

PLA Filament: Affordable material for beginners and rapid prototyping

PLA filament is popular with beginners due to its ease of use. It is environmentally friendly because it is made from renewable resources such as corn starch.
The main advantages are low printing temperature and low shrinkage rate. It is perfect for educational purposes and rapid prototyping.
Important properties of PLA filament:

Biodegradable
hard with brittle.
Withstands temperatures up to a maximum of approximately 60º Celsius
Advantage: Available in many different colors and shades, matte, glossy, etc.

ABS Filament: Strength and Durability

Known for its strength and toughness, ABS filament is a popular choice for technical and industrial applications that require durable parts.
A heated bed is necessary to prevent warping, a heated build chamber is recommended for maximum strength!

NOTE: Good ventilation is important due to the fumes generated during printing.
Important properties of ABS filament:

High temperature resistance, up to 100º
The surface can be smoothed with acetone.
Strong and durable

PETG Filament: Versatile and reliable, simple!

PETG offers a combination of simplicity and better mechanical properties compared to PLA. It is also resistant to chemicals and moisture, making it suitable for many applications. There are also food-safe PETG materials.
With a good balance of strength and flexibility, PETG is popular with both beginners and experts.
Important properties of PETG filament:

Often a glossy surface
High chemical resistance
Tougher and less flexible compared to PLA
Less shrinkage and warping than ABS

Nylon Filament: Tough material, slightly flexible

Nylon filament offers exceptional strength and lightweight flexibility, making it ideal for functional and industrial parts. It requires high printing temperatures and a heated heatbed and heated build chamber. (With the exception of smaller objects)
Polyamide - nylon is hydroscopic which means it easily absorbs moisture which can affect the prints, making dry storage crucial.
Important properties of nylon filament:

Durable and flexible
High impact resistance
Excellent for tools and parts
Withstands mechanical stress

TPU Filament - Flexible filament

TPU filament is used to create stretchable and impact resistant parts. It must be printed at a lower speed and with a direct drive extruder due to its flexibility. (Harder TPU goes with bowden extruders)
TPU is ideal for applications such as phone cases and gaskets and offers versatility in specific applications. TPU is available in several hardnesses measured on the "shore hardness scale", a higher number e.g. 98A = harder TPU

Important properties of TPU filament:

Rubbery flexibility
Durable and stretchable
Suitable for customized applications
High strength between layers.

Special filaments

Specialty filaments offer unique surface finishes and properties. These include wood filaments, mixed metals, luminescent, ESD safe or self-extinguishing materials, for example, which opens up creative possibilities for 3D printing projects.
Food-safe 3D printer filament is specifically designed for items that come into contact with food. Certification is essential to ensure safety and compliance with health standards.
Important properties of specialty filaments:

Choices such as ESD-safe, carbon fiber, fiberglass, wood fiber or metal powder
Biodegradable alternatives
Suitable for objects that come into contact with food or that have requirements for electrical properties, etc.

Considerations when choosing 3D filament

Choosing the right 3D filament affects print quality. Consider the strength, flexibility, and surface finish of the filament. Different filaments suit different project needs.
The diameter of the filament is crucial – 1.75mm or 2.85mm are common. Make sure it is compatible with your 3D printer model. This affects the feed rate and the quality of the extrusion.
Environmentally conscious users may prioritize the biodegradability of the filament. Be mindful of storage conditions, as moisture affects print quality. Invest in airtight containers to protect your filaments.
Filament selection checklist:

Material properties (strength, flexibility)
Diameter compatibility
Environmental impact
Storage requirements (e.g. moisture sensitivity)
High temperatures
Resistance to chemicals
Mechanical wear

Storage and Handling of 3D Printer Plastic

Proper storage of 3D printer plastic prevents moisture absorption, which is key to strong and durable models. Moisture can lead to poor adhesion between layers and printing errors.
To ensure optimal storage conditions, please see the following tips:

Use airtight containers with desiccant.
Store filament in a cool, dry place.
Avoid direct sunlight.
By following these storage guidelines, the quality of the filament is maintained and a high-quality model is ensured.

Environmental impact and sustainability

3D plastics offer both benefits and challenges for the environment. PLA filament is a popular choice due to its biodegradability. However, not all filaments are equally environmentally friendly.
To minimize environmental impact:

Choose biodegradable or recyclable filaments
Reuse scrap filament whenever possible.
Support brands with sustainable practices that are made in the EU
Making conscious choices when it comes to filament can greatly contribute to a more sustainable environment!
Sort your resin and plastic!

Conclusion: Finding the right material for your model

Choosing the right filament for your application is crucial to a successful model. Understanding the project requirements and the properties of different filaments will help you make the right choice. Consider factors such as strength, flexibility, and environmental impact. By weighing these factors against each other, you can make informed decisions that will improve your 3D models!