3D printing filaments are the thermoplastic feedstock used in fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers. These filaments come in various materials, each with unique properties and applications. In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of filaments, their characteristics, and how to troubleshoot common issues.
Types of 3D Printing Filaments
- PLA (Polylactic Acid):
- Made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane
User-friendly, doesn’t easily warp, and is food-safeTensile strength: 65 MPa, Flexural modulus: 3.8 GPaPrint temperature: 130-180°C, Bed temperature: 50°C ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene):
- Petroleum-based thermoplastic
Durable, functional parts, but can warp easilyTensile strength: 40 MPa, Flexural modulus: 2.3 GPaPrint temperature: 210-250°C, Bed temperature: 90-110°C PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol):
- Combines the best properties of PLA and ABS
Durable, glossy finish, and better layer adhesionPrint temperature: 230-250°C, Bed temperature: 80-90°C Nylon:
- Strong, flexible, and abrasion-resistant
Hygroscopic, so it needs to be dried before printingPrint temperature: 240-270°C, Bed temperature: 70-100°C TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):
- Flexible and impact-resistant
Tensile strength: 40 MPa, Hardness: 93 Shore APrint temperature: 210-230°C, Bed temperature: 60°C
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Stringing or Oozing:
- Caused by over-extrusion, incorrect retraction settings, or high temperatures
Solution: Increase retraction distance and speed, lower temperature by 5-10°C Warping or Lifting Corners:
- Caused by parts cooling too quickly and shrinking
Solution: Ensure a level and clean build plate, use a brim or raft, increase initial layer height, and heat the bed to 50-60°C for PLA or 90-110°C for ABS Gaps in Top Layers or Pillowing:
- Caused by under-extrusion, incorrect infill overlap settings, or printing too fast
Solution: Increase infill percentage, increase infill overlap with perimeters, and reduce printing speed Overhanging Features Sagging:
- Caused by insufficient cooling or lack of supports
Solution: Enable support structures, increase part cooling fan speed, and slow down print speed for overhangs and bridges Inconsistent Extrusion:
- Caused by a partial clog, worn extruder parts, or incorrect extrusion multiplier
Solution: Check for clogs and clean the nozzle, replace worn extruder parts, and calibrate extruder E-steps and flow rate
By understanding the different types of filaments and their properties, as well as troubleshooting common issues, you can achieve high-quality 3D prints consistently.