Filament for FDM 3D Printers
PLA
Characteristics
PLA is a cost efficient, strong, thermoplastic, biodegradable and multi-color materials
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
Prototype for mechanical hardware; artwork and various testing models with low cost and large size
Not Suitable
Products used in very high temperature application. Difficult for post-processing.
ABS
Characteristics
Cost effective, very sturdy and hard, engineering plastic, moderately superior to PLA.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
Machine parts for industry use, able to withstand high stress and temperature.
Not Suitable
Any products require high precision and complex design. Difficult for post-processing.
PETG
Characteristics
PETG is clear material, which is more flexible and durable than PLA and easier to print than ABS.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
Prototype for mechanical hardware; artwork and various testing models with low cost and large size
Not Suitable
Though not brittle, PETG scratches more easily than ABS.Difficult for post-processing
Nylon
Characteristics
High performance on considering strength, flexibility, and durability.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
create tools, functional prototypes, or mechanical parts (like hinges, buckles, or gears)
Not Suitable
Any products require high precision and complex design. Difficult for post-processing.
Marble
Characteristics
Aesthectic and tactile appeal like marble, a mix of black powder with white PLA.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
Ideal for parts who should bend, stretch, or compress (toys, phone cases etc)
Not Suitable
Products used in very high temperature application. Difficult for post-processing.
Metal Filled
Characteristics
Metal can be used to print for aesthetics and for function. It is mix of metal powder and PLA.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
Metal can be usedc to print for aesthetics and for function.
Not Suitable
Are not ideal with too much stress. Difficult for post-processing.
TPU (Flexible)
Characteristics
Rubber-like qualities, extremely flexible and durable, soft and stretchable.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
Suitable
Ideal for parts who should bend, stretch, or compress (toys, phone cases etc)
Not Suitable
Not friendly for support,not ideal for big project. Printing takes extra time.
Wood
Characteristics
Feel like wood, aesthetic and tactile appeal comes at the cost of reduced flexibility and strength.
Accuracy
0.05mm
Color
Cost
$$$$$
