As the popularity of 3D printing grows, so does the variety of filaments used. Especially with the capabilities of multi-filament and multi-color printing, this variety becomes even more crucial. Here are the popular filament types used in 3D printers and their applications:
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
PLA is a biodegradable material, typically derived from cornstarch or sugarcane. It is known for its low melting temperature and ease of processing.
PLA Filaments Applications:
Prototyping: The ease of processing PLA makes it ideal for quickly prototyping new product designs.
Art Projects: Suitable for sculptures, wall decorations, or personal projects.
Simple Toys and Decorative Items: PLA is used to make safe, non-toxic toys for children.
For more information about its applications, check out our blog posts titled "Multi-Color and Multi-Filament 3D Printing Revolutionizes Education" and "3D Printing in Architecture: The Revolutionary Impact of Co Print Technology."
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS is a petroleum-based plastic known for its durability. It can withstand high temperatures and is resistant to impacts.
ABS Filaments Applications:
Automotive Parts: Ideal for car interiors, consoles, or air vents.
Tools: Especially for parts requiring mechanical durability, ABS is an excellent choice.
Electronic Device Cases: Phones, radios, or computer casings can be produced with ABS.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
PETG is considered a midpoint between PLA and ABS, being durable and suitable for contact with food.
PETG Filaments Applications:
Food Containers: Storage containers or water bottles are made from PETG.
Jewelry: The transparency of PETG can be used in making colorful or patterned jewelry.
Outdoor Applications: PETG is resistant to UV rays and external factors.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
TPU offers flexibility and durability.
TPU Filaments Applications:
Phone Cases: Ideal for flexible and durable phone cases.
Shoe Soles: Provides comfort and durability.
Flexible Toys: Perfect for fun, stretchable toys, or stress balls.
Nylon (Polyamide)
Nylon is known for its durability, flexibility, and high strength.
Nylon Filaments Applications:
Gear Wheels: Its high strength makes it ideal for use in moving mechanical parts.
Bearings: It's resistant to wear and reduces the risk of heating due to friction.
Durable Mechanical Parts: Especially for parts that need resistance to bending or breaking under load.
The variety of filaments used in 3D printing offers a broad spectrum of options, depending on your project or needs.
At Co Print, with our equipment supporting multi-filament printing, we aim to enable you to utilize this variety to the fullest. Whichever filament type you choose, contact us to optimize your print quality and create multi-colored, multi-material projects.
