3D printer filament types and uses: A comprehensive guide

3D printer filaments are the essential materials used in fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology.

Introduction to 3D printer filaments

These thermoplastic materials come in long, thin strands wound onto spools, ready to be fed into a 3D printer's extruder. As the foundation of FDM printing, filaments play a crucial role in determining the quality, properties, and applications of the final printed object.

Filaments are typically available in two standard diameters: 1.75mm and 2.85mm (sometimes referred to as 3mm). The 1.75mm variant is more common due to its compatibility with a wider range of printers and its ability to provide more precise extrusion control. When choosing a filament, it's essential to ensure it matches your printer's specifications.

The world of 3D printing filaments has expanded dramatically in recent years, moving beyond the basic PLA and ABS options to include a wide array of materials with diverse properties.

This evolution has opened up new possibilities for both hobbyists and professionals, allowing for the creation of objects with specific characteristics suited to various applications.

Key factors in filament selection

When selecting a filament for your 3D printing project, consider the following factors:

• Material Properties: Different filaments offer varying levels of strength, flexibility, heat resistance, and durability.
• Printing Temperature: Each filament type has an optimal printing temperature range that affects print quality and adhesion.
• Bed Adhesion: Some materials require specific bed preparations or heated build plates for successful printing.
• Post-Processing: Consider whether the filament allows for sanding, painting, or other finishing techniques.
• Environmental Factors: Some filaments are more eco-friendly or biodegradable than others.
• Cost: Prices can vary significantly between basic and specialty filaments.

Understanding these factors will help you choose the right filament for your specific needs, whether you're creating functional prototypes, decorative objects, or end-use parts. As we delve deeper into the world of 3D printer filaments, we'll explore the characteristics and applications of various materials, empowering you to make informed decisions for your 3D printing projects.

Common 3D printer filament types

Building on our introduction to 3D printer filaments, let's explore the most widely used types in detail. While PLA and ABS remain popular choices, the market has expanded to include a variety of materials suited for different applications and user skill levels.

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA is an excellent starting point for beginners. Its low printing temperature (180-230°C) and minimal warping make it easy to work with. PLA offers:

• Compostable, derived from renewable resources like cornstarch
• A wide range of colors and finishes, including wood-filled and metal-filled variants
• Excellent detail reproduction and layer adhesion

However, PLA's low heat resistance (around 60°C) limits its use in functional parts exposed to higher temperatures.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

ABS is favored for its durability and heat resistance. It requires higher printing temperatures (220-250°C) and a heated bed (95-110°C). Key features include:

• Greater impact resistance and flexibility compared to PLA
• Higher heat resistance (up to 105°C)
• Ability to be smoothed with acetone vapor for a glossy finish

The main drawbacks of ABS are its tendency to warp and the emission of potentially harmful fumes during printing, necessitating good ventilation.

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

PETG combines many of the best qualities of PLA and ABS. It prints at temperatures similar to ABS (220-250°C) but with less warping. PETG offers:

• Excellent layer adhesion and water resistance
• Good chemical resistance and durability
• Food-safe properties (when using food-grade variants)

PETG can be more prone to stringing than PLA or ABS, requiring fine-tuning of retraction settings.

TPU/TPE (Thermoplastic Polyurethane/Elastomer)

TPU/TPE are flexible filaments that open up new possibilities for 3D printing. They require slower print speeds and direct drive extruders for best results. Benefits include:

• High elasticity and impact resistance
• Abrasion resistance and durability
• Suitability for wearable items and protective cases

TPU/TPE can be challenging to print due to their flexible nature, making them better suited for more experienced users.

Nylon

Nylon filaments offer excellent strength and durability. They require higher printing temperatures (240-260°C) and are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the air. Nylon provides:

• High tensile strength and flexibility
• Low friction coefficient, ideal for moving parts
• Good chemical resistance

Proper storage and drying of nylon filaments are crucial for successful prints.

By understanding the properties and printing requirements of these common filament types, you can better match materials to your specific project needs. In the next section, we'll delve into more specialized and engineering-grade filaments for advanced applications.

Specialized and engineering-grade filaments

Building on our exploration of common 3D printer filaments, let's delve into more advanced materials that cater to specialized applications and engineering requirements. These filaments often demand higher printing temperatures, more precise control, and sometimes specialized hardware, making them better suited for experienced users and professional applications.

Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate is known for its exceptional strength and heat resistance, surpassing even ABS in these aspects. Key features include:

• High impact resistance and durability
• Excellent heat resistance (up to 110°C)
• Optical clarity when printed with the right settings

PC requires high printing temperatures (260-310°C) and a heated bed (90-110°C). It's hygroscopic like nylon, so proper storage and drying are essential.

Carbon fiber-filled filaments

These composite filaments combine base materials like PLA, nylon or PET with chopped carbon fibers. They offer:

• Increased stiffness and dimensional stability
• Reduced weight compared to pure plastic prints
• A matte, textured finish resembling carbon fiber

Carbon fiber filaments are abrasive and may require hardened nozzles to prevent wear. They also tend to be more brittle than their unfilled counterparts.

Metal-filled filaments

These filaments contain metal powders mixed with a polymer base, typically PLA. They provide:

• A metallic appearance and weight
• Ability to be polished or patinated for a more authentic metal look
• Potential for post-processing techniques like sintering for increased metal content

Metal-filled filaments are heavier and more abrasive than standard plastics, often requiring slower print speeds and hardened nozzles.

PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)

PEEK is a high-performance thermoplastic used in demanding industrial applications. It offers:

• Exceptional mechanical and thermal properties
• Chemical resistance to many solvents and oils
• Biocompatibility, making it suitable for medical applications

PEEK requires very high printing temperatures (360-400°C) and a heated chamber, limiting its use to specialized industrial printers.

As a replacement for PEEK, UltiMaker also offers an afforable and easy-to-use option, PPS CF, which offers similar properties.

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)

ASA addresses some limitations of ABS while maintaining similar mechanical properties:

• Improved UV resistance for outdoor applications
• Better printability with less warping than ABS
• Reduced odor during printing compared to ABS

ASA prints at similar temperatures to ABS but may offer better layer adhesion and surface finish.

Considerations for specialized filaments

When working with these advanced materials, keep in mind:

• Printer compatibility: Ensure your printer can reach the required temperatures and has appropriate components (e.g., all-metal hotend for high-temp filaments).
• Ventilation: Many of these filaments may emit potentially harmful fumes, requiring proper ventilation or enclosures.
• Cost: Specialized filaments are often significantly more expensive than standard materials.
• Post-processing: Some of these filaments open up unique post-processing possibilities, such as metal polishing or heat treatment.

By expanding into these specialized and engineering-grade filaments, 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals can tackle more demanding projects and create parts with properties approaching those of traditionally manufactured components. As we continue to explore the world of 3D printer filaments, we'll next look at flexible and support materials, further broadening the scope of what's possible with additive manufacturing.

Flexible and support filaments

Building on our exploration of common and specialized filaments, let's delve into two important categories that expand the capabilities of 3D printing: flexible filaments and support materials. These filaments address specific needs in 3D printing, allowing for the creation of more complex geometries and parts with unique properties.

Flexible filaments

While we briefly touched on TPU/TPE in the common filaments section, it's worth exploring flexible materials in more depth due to their unique properties and applications.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

TPU is the most common flexible filament, offering a balance of elasticity and durability. Key features include:

• Shore hardness often ranging from 85A to 95A, allowing for varying degrees of flexibility
• Excellent abrasion resistance and tear strength
• Good chemical resistance and oil resistance

TPU typically prints at temperatures between 220-250°C and benefits from slower print speeds and direct drive extruders.

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer)

TPE is generally softer and more flexible than TPU, with shore hardness ranging from 35A to 95A. It offers:

• Higher elasticity and lower tensile strength compared to TPU
• Excellent impact resistance and vibration dampening properties
• Potential for even greater flexibility in finished parts

TPE can be more challenging to print than TPU due to its increased flexibility, often requiring even slower print speeds and more precise temperature control.

Applications for flexible filaments

The unique properties of flexible filaments open up a range of applications, including:

• Wearable technology and custom orthotics
• Protective cases and impact-resistant parts
• Automotive components like seals and gaskets
• Robotic grippers and soft robotics

Support filaments

Support materials are crucial for printing complex geometries with overhangs or intricate details. Unlike the structural filaments we've discussed previously, these materials are designed to be removed after printing.

PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol)

PVA is a water-soluble support material, offering several advantages:

• Dissolves completely in water, leaving no residue
• Compatible with a wide range of printing materials, especially PLA
• Allows for the creation of complex internal geometries

PVA prints at temperatures similar to PLA (180-200°C) but requires careful storage due to its hygroscopic nature.

UltiMaker offers a PVA removal station for dissolving 3D printed PVA up to 4x faster.

Breakaway supports

Some manufacturers offer specialized breakaway support materials that don't require solvents for removal. These materials:

• Can be easily removed by hand or with simple tools
• Often leave a smoother surface finish than traditional supports
• May offer better adhesion to the primary material during printing

Considerations for flexible and support filaments

When working with these specialized materials, keep in mind:

• Printer compatibility: Dual extrusion capabilities are often required for support materials
• Storage: Both flexible and water-soluble filaments are highly susceptible to moisture absorption
• Print settings: These materials often require significant adjustments to print speed, temperature, and other parameters
• Post-processing: Plan for the time and resources needed to remove support materials effectively

By incorporating flexible and support filaments into your 3D printing repertoire, you can significantly expand the range of parts and geometries you can produce. These materials complement the structural filaments discussed earlier, allowing for more complex and functional prints across various applications.

As we continue to explore the world of 3D printer filaments, our next section will provide a comprehensive comparison chart to help you easily reference and compare the properties of different filament types, aiding in your material selection process for future projects.

Filament type key insights

Analyzing the chart above reveals several important considerations for filament selection:

• Temperature Requirements: As we move from left to right in the chart, we generally see an increase in required printing and bed temperatures. This correlates with the filaments' increasing mechanical properties and heat resistance.
• Strength vs. Flexibility Trade-off: Materials with high strength ratings often have lower flexibility, and vice versa. TPU/TPE stands out as the most flexible option, while PC and Nylon offer the highest strength.
• Ease of Printing: PLA remains the easiest filament to print with, making it ideal for beginners. As we progress to more advanced materials like PC and Nylon, the printing difficulty increases, requiring more experience and potentially specialized equipment.
• Environmental Resistance: ASA and PC excel in UV resistance, making them suitable for outdoor applications. PETG and Nylon offer excellent chemical resistance, ideal for parts exposed to various substances.

Considerations beyond the chart

While this comparison provides a solid foundation for filament selection, several other factors should be considered:

• Cost: Generally, more advanced materials like PC and Nylon are more expensive than basic filaments like PLA and ABS.
• Post-processing: Some materials, like ABS, can be easily smoothed with acetone, while others may require more intensive finishing techniques.
• Printer Compatibility: Ensure your printer can reach the required temperatures and has the appropriate components (e.g., all-metal hotend for high-temp filaments).
• Environmental Impact: Consider the renewablility of materials like PLA for eco-friendly projects.

By combining the insights from this comparison chart with the detailed information provided in previous sections, you can make well-informed decisions when selecting filaments for your 3D printing projects. Remember that experimentation and hands-on experience with different materials will further enhance your understanding of their unique properties and best applications.

In the next section, we'll delve deeper into the relationship between filament properties and print quality, exploring how different materials can affect the strength, durability, and overall performance of your 3D printed objects.

Filament strength and durability

Building on our comprehensive comparison of 3D printer filaments, let's delve deeper into how filament properties impact the strength and durability of printed objects. Understanding these factors is crucial for selecting the right material for functional parts and applications that require specific mechanical properties.

Factors affecting filament strength and durability

Several key factors contribute to the overall strength and durability of 3D printed parts:

• Tensile Strength: The maximum stress a material can withstand before breaking when stretched.
• Impact Resistance: The ability of a material to absorb energy from sudden impacts without fracturing.
• Layer Adhesion: The strength of the bond between printed layers, which significantly affects overall part strength.
• environmental resistance: the material's ability to maintain its properties when exposed to heat, uv light, or chemicals.

Enhancing strength and durability in 3D printing

Beyond material selection, several printing techniques can improve the strength and durability of 3D printed parts:

• Optimizing Layer Height: Thinner layers often result in stronger parts due to better layer adhesion, but at the cost of increased print time.
• Infill Density and Pattern: Higher infill percentages and patterns like triangular or cubic can significantly increase part strength.
• Print Orientation: Aligning the print orientation with the direction of expected stress can improve part strength.
• Temperature Control: Proper nozzle and bed temperatures ensure optimal layer adhesion and reduce the risk of warping or delamination.

Specialized filaments for enhanced strength

For applications requiring exceptional strength and durability, consider these specialized options:

• Carbon Fiber-Filled Filaments: As mentioned in the specialized filaments section, these materials offer increased stiffness and strength-to-weight ratio compared to unfilled plastics.
• Polycarbonate Blends: PC/ABS blends combine the strength of PC with the printability of ABS, offering a good balance for functional parts.
• High-Performance Nylons: Reinforced nylon filaments, such as those with carbon fiber or glass fiber, provide exceptional strength and wear resistance.

Durability considerations

Strength is just one aspect of durability. Consider these additional factors for long-lasting prints:

• UV Resistance: For outdoor applications, ASA and PETG offer better UV stability than ABS or PLA.
• Chemical Resistance: PETG and Nylon exhibit excellent resistance to various chemicals, making them suitable for parts exposed to solvents or oils.
• Moisture Absorption: Some materials, like Nylon and TPU, are hygroscopic and may weaken over time if not properly sealed or treated.

Testing and validation

For critical applications, it's essential to conduct thorough testing of printed parts. Consider these methods:

• Tensile testing to measure ultimate strength and elongation at break
• Impact testing to assess toughness and resistance to sudden loads
• Fatigue testing for parts subject to repeated stress cycles
• Environmental testing to simulate real-world conditions (e.g., UV exposure, temperature cycling)

By carefully considering filament properties, optimizing print settings, and selecting appropriate materials for your specific application, you can create 3D printed parts that meet or exceed the strength and durability requirements of your projects. As we continue to explore the world of 3D printing filaments, our next section will delve into the environmental considerations in filament selection, addressing the growing demand for sustainable 3D printing practices.

Take a look at the UltiMaker material technical data sheet for more information.

Environmental considerations in filament selection

As we've explored the various properties and applications of 3D printing filaments, it's crucial to address the growing concern for environmental sustainability in additive manufacturing. this section will examine the environmental impact of different filament types and discuss eco-friendly options available to conscientious makers.

Biodegradability and renewability

While PLA's biodegradability was briefly mentioned earlier, it's worth exploring this aspect in more depth:

• PLA (Polylactic Acid): Derived from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane, PLA is biodegradable under specific industrial composting conditions. However, it's important to note that it doesn't readily biodegrade in home compost bins or landfills.
• PHA (Polyhydroxyalkanoate): A lesser-known but promising biodegradable option, PHA is produced by microorganisms and can degrade in both industrial and home composting environments.

These materials offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics, especially for short-term or disposable applications.

Recycling potential

The recyclability of 3D printing filaments varies widely:

• PET and PETG: These materials are widely recycled in many regions, making them a good choice for environmentally conscious users.
• ABS and Nylon: While technically recyclable, these materials are often not accepted in curbside recycling programs due to their higher melting points.
• Composite filaments: Materials containing additives like carbon fiber or metal powders are generally not recyclable through conventional means.

Some filament manufacturers now offer recycling programs for their products, helping to close the loop on 3D printing waste.

Energy consumption and emissions

The environmental impact of 3D printing extends beyond the filament itself. Consider these factors:

• Printing temperature: Lower-temperature filaments like PLA generally require less energy to print than high-temperature materials like PC or PEEK.
• VOC emissions: Some filaments, particularly ABS, emit potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during printing. Opting for low-emission materials like PLA or PETG can improve indoor air quality.

Read further in our article that deep-dives into 3D printer emissions and air quality.

Emerging eco-friendly filaments

Innovative manufacturers are developing new filaments with improved environmental profiles:

• Recycled filaments: Made from post-consumer or post-industrial plastic waste, these materials give new life to discarded plastics.
• Wood-filled filaments: Combining PLA with wood fibers, these materials offer a unique aesthetic while utilizing renewable resources.
• Algae-based filaments: Experimental materials derived from algae biomass show promise as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics.

Balancing performance and sustainability

When selecting filaments for environmental sustainability, consider the following:

• Application lifespan: For short-term or prototype parts, prioritize biodegradable materials. For long-lasting functional parts, durability may outweigh biodegradability.
• Local recycling capabilities: Choose materials that are recyclable in your area when possible.
• Print success rate: Failed prints contribute to waste, so selecting a filament that prints reliably can reduce overall material consumption.

Future trends in sustainable 3D printing

The 3D printing industry is actively working towards more sustainable practices:

• Closed-loop systems: Printers that can recycle failed prints or support materials directly into new filament.
• Bio-based engineering plastics: Development of high-performance materials derived from renewable resources.
• Improved energy efficiency: Advancements in printer technology to reduce power consumption during the printing process.

By considering these environmental factors alongside the mechanical and printing properties discussed in previous sections, makers can make informed decisions that balance performance requirements with sustainability goals. As the 3D printing industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations in eco-friendly materials and processes, driving the technology towards a more sustainable future.

Choosing the right filament for your project

As we have explored the diverse landscape of 3D printer filaments, the next step is to determine how to select the most suitable filament for your specific project needs. This decision-making process involves evaluating several critical factors that influence the final outcome of your 3D printed objects.

Project requirements and filament properties

Understanding the specific requirements of your project is paramount. Consider the following aspects:

• Functionality: Determine whether the printed object needs to be functional or a visual prototype. Functional parts often require filaments with higher strength and durability, such as ABS or Nylon, while decorative items might benefit from the ease of use and aesthetic variety of PLA.
• Environmental Conditions: Consider the environment in which the object will be used. For outdoor applications, materials like ASA or PETG, known for their UV resistance, are preferable. For high-temperature environments, polycarbonate or PPS CF may be necessary.
• Mechanical Properties: Assess the need for flexibility, impact resistance, or tensile strength. As discussed in the Filament Strength and Durability section, materials like TPU offer flexibility, while carbon fiber-filled filaments provide enhanced stiffness.

Printer compatibility and technical considerations

Ensure that your 3D printer is compatible with the chosen filament:

• Temperature Capabilities: Verify that your printer can reach the necessary nozzle and bed temperatures for the filament. High-performance materials like PEEK require specialized printers capable of maintaining high temperatures.
• Extruder Type: Some filaments, particularly flexible ones like TPU, perform better with direct drive extruders. Check your printer's specifications to ensure compatibility.
• Build Volume and Bed Adhesion: Consider the size of your print and the adhesion properties of the filament. Materials like ABS may require a heated bed and enclosure to prevent warping.

Cost and availability

Budget constraints and material availability can also influence your choice:

• Cost-Effectiveness: While advanced materials offer superior properties, they often come at a higher cost. Balance the need for performance with budget considerations, especially for large-scale projects.
• Local Availability: Ensure that the filament is readily available from suppliers in your region to avoid delays in your project timeline.

At UltiMaker’s Marketplace, you can find both UltiMaker and third-party filaments to fit your needs.

Testing and iteration

Before committing to a large print, conduct small test prints to evaluate the filament's performance. This allows you to:

• Fine-Tune Settings: Adjust print speed, temperature, and other parameters to optimize print quality.
• Assess Material Suitability: Confirm that the filament meets the mechanical and aesthetic requirements of your project.

Choosing the right filament is a nuanced process that requires a thorough understanding of both the material properties and the specific demands of your project. By considering the factors outlined above, you can make informed decisions that enhance the quality and functionality of your 3D printed objects. As we continue our exploration,

Conclusion and future trends in 3D printing filaments

As we conclude our comprehensive exploration of 3D printer filament types and uses, it's clear that the world of additive manufacturing materials is diverse, complex, and rapidly evolving. Let's recap some key takeaways and look ahead to emerging trends that will shape the future of 3D printing filaments.

Key takeaways

• Material Diversity: From basic PLA to engineering-grade polymers like PEEK, the range of available filaments caters to a wide spectrum of applications and user needs.
• Property Trade-offs: As discussed in our comparison chart, each filament type offers a unique balance of properties such as strength, flexibility, and printability. Selecting the right material often involves carefully weighing these trade-offs.
• Environmental Considerations: The growing focus on sustainability has led to innovations in biodegradable and recycled filaments, as well as more eco-friendly manufacturing processes.
• Proper Handling: The importance of correct storage and handling practices cannot be overstated, as they directly impact print quality and material longevity.

Emerging trends and future developments

Looking to the future, several exciting trends are poised to shape the landscape of 3D printing filaments:

1. Advanced composite materials

Building on the success of carbon fiber and metal-filled filaments, we can expect to see more advanced composite materials that combine the printability of thermoplastics with the enhanced properties of additives. These may include:

• Nano-reinforced filaments for improved strength and conductivity
• Bio-based composites that blend renewable resources with high-performance additives
• Smart materials that can change properties in response to external stimuli

2. Expanded functional properties

Future filaments may offer enhanced functional properties beyond mechanical strength, such as:

• Improved thermal and electrical conductivity for printed electronics
• Enhanced antimicrobial properties for medical applications
• Self-healing capabilities to extend the lifespan of printed parts

3. Sustainability innovations

The push for more environmentally friendly 3D printing practices will likely drive developments in:

• Fully biodegradable filaments that break down in natural environments
• Improved recycling processes for a wider range of filament types
• Filaments derived from captured carbon or ocean plastics

4. Material-specific printer optimizations

As filaments become more specialized, we may see printers designed to optimize performance with specific materials:

• Advanced temperature control systems for high-performance polymers
• Integrated filament drying and storage solutions
• Specialized extruders for highly flexible or abrasive materials

5. AI-driven material development

Artificial intelligence and machine learning could revolutionize filament development by:

• Predicting optimal formulations for specific property profiles
• Automating the testing and iteration process for new materials
• Generating custom filament recipes tailored to individual print requirements

The world of 3D printer filaments is dynamic and full of potential. As we've seen throughout this guide, understanding the properties, applications, and best practices for various filament types is crucial for successful 3D printing. By staying informed about current materials and emerging trends, makers and professionals alike can harness the full power of additive manufacturing to bring their ideas to life.

As 3D printing technology continues to advance, we can expect filaments to become more specialized, sustainable, and capable of producing parts that rival or exceed those made by traditional manufacturing methods. The future of 3D printing filaments is bright, promising exciting possibilities for innovation across industries and applications.

Innovate with the UltiMaker Ecosystem

UltiMaker offers a complete ecosystem for you to innvoate with additive manufacturing - from certified filaments to industry-grade 3D printers. Whether you need to streamline your workflow, reduce downtime, or explore customized components, 3D printing offers endless opportunities to enhance your operations. Get in touch to discover how UltiMaker's industrial-grade solutions can help push your business forward.