The most popular filament for 3D printing
Entering the world
3D printing
sooner or later you start thinking about which 3D printing filament to use. The latter are used by FDM 3D printers. There are many types of filament, which of course have different properties. You need to choose the right 3D printing filament for your requirements, as not every filament is suitable. It is also important that it is easily deliverable and available when you need it.
PLA - THE EASIEST TO USE
The most common filament for 3D printing is PLA. It has the lowest requirements for 3D printer characteristics, in particular the temperature of the extruder and the working substrate. It is also compatible with the widest range of 3D printers, is the cheapest and easiest to use. PLA allows you to 3D print large objects without the need for a 3D printer with a heated work pad and a closed chamber, as the shrinkage rate is low.
The main disadvantage of PLA filament is that it is not as strong or durable as some other types, but it is still the most popular choice for 3D printing enthusiasts.
Settings for printing with PLA filament:
- Extruder temperature: 200 – 230°C
- Heated working mat: not required (if yes, 20-45°C)
- Closed chamber: not necessary (if yes, 20-25°C)
- Additional requirements: some special PLA filaments, such as the “Galaxy filament” which glows in the dark, need an extruder with higher strength because of the addition of fluorescent substances.
FlashForge PLA Pro 1.75 mm Copper
Winkle PLA-HD 1,75 mm Devil Red
Winkle PLA-HD 1,75 mm Sky Blue
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge PLA Pro 1.75 mm Grey
MakerBot Precision PLA 1,75 mm Black 0,75 kg
MakerBot Precision PLA 1,75 mm Grey 0,75 kg
MakerBot Precision PLA 1,75 mm Natural 0,75 kg
MakerBot Precision PLA 1,75 mm Orange 0,75 kg
MakerBot Precision PLA 1,75 mm Red 0,75 kg
MakerBot Precision PLA 1,75 mm White 0,75 kg
ABS - 3D PRINTING FILAMENT WITH OUTSTANDING PROPERTIES
ABS has excellent mechanical properties as it is resistant to higher temperatures and UV light. It also has slightly fewer requirements in terms of storage conditions. It’s just important to avoid really extreme temperatures, humidity and direct sunlight. If stored correctly, ABS filament should last for several months with the same properties.
In general, ABS is more durable, stronger and tougher than PLA filament, and also breaks more easily under pressure. 3D models sprinted from ABS filament can be exposed to humidity, higher ambient temperatures or UV rays for longer periods without affecting their properties too much. In addition, post-processing of models is significantly easier.
Settings for printing with ABS filament:
- Extruder temperature: 230 – 260°C
- Heated working mat: required (90-95°C)
- Closed chamber: not necessary (if yes, around 30°C)
- Additional requirements: make sure that the working mat has enough grip, so lubricate it with adhesive before 3D printing.
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm White
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Black
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Green
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Orange
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Yellow
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Blue
ABS winkle 1,75 mm Jet Black
Winkle ABS 1,75 mm Glacier White
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Grey
- Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
FlashForge ABS Pro 1.75 mm Red
PETG - THE IDEAL MIXTURE
PETG is a blend of PLA and ABS filament. Although not difficult to use, PETG is not the most popular among hobbyists, but is more often used in private studios and small productions. Compared to PLA and ABS filament, it has almost zero shrinkage, making it the most suitable for prototyping. PETG filament for 3D printing is the ideal combination of strength and flexibility, and is resistant to external stresses. Interestingly, most plastic bottles are made of PETG material.
Settings for printing with PETG filament:
- Extruder temperature: 220 – 245°C
- Heated working mat: required (70-80°C)
- Closed chamber: not necessary (if yes, around 25°C)
- Additional requirements: PETG rapidly absorbs moisture from the air. Storage of PETG filament is a non-negligible problem. We recommend using a filament dryer.
FlashForge PETG 1.75 mm Red
Winkle PETG 1,75 mm Crystal Amber
Winkle PETG 1,75 mm Crystal Lime
Winkle PETG 1,75 mm Glacier White
FlashForge PETG 1.75 mm Green
FlashForge PETG 1.75 mm Orange
Winkle PETG 1,75 mm Jet Black
Winkle PETG 1,75 mm Crystal Pinkish
Winkle PETG 1,75 mm Crystal Aquamarine
FlashForge PETG 1.75 mm White
NOW YOU KNOW ALL THE IMPORTANT FEATURES, YOU JUST NEED TO CHOOSE THE 3D PRINTING FILAMENT THAT BEST SUITS YOUR REQUIREMENTS...
We’ve introduced you to the three most common types of 3D printing filament – PLA, ABS and PETG. These three 3D printing filaments can cover most of the daily needs of 3D printing enthusiasts. As well as being easy to use, they are available in many colours and the sprinted designs are strong and have a sturdy structure. We strongly recommend that you use the original filament for 3D printing and, above all, that you store it correctly, as this is the only way it will retain all its original properties.
