To optimize your printing, here are some tips to choose your filament according to what you want to do. With a better filament, you can print faster without the risk of clogging your nozzle.
First of all, whatever the filament you choose, it is necessary to check that your printer is compatible with this filament: if it is not the case, it is likely that you damage your nozzle, your equipment or even your printer. So it’s a crucial point.
My presentation will be based on my personal and professional use: I will present THE filament I chose, then I will make a list of more specific use and suitable filaments.
PLA
PLA is for me the best choice because its use is the most multipurpose of all. As it does not emit toxic smoke and is printed at low temperatures, it is quite easy to use (the installation of a cover is not necessary). It also does not emit bad smells, which does not require to keep its printers out of living rooms. It is a renewable resource derivative (cornstarch, sugar cane, …), and it is biodegradable, which makes it respectful of the environment and health.
As for its physical characteristics: it is rather resistant, it expands around 180/210 ° C and deforms little. But it has limits: it can contain water but its watertightness is limited and it is quite sensitive to heat (since it expands at low temperatures).
Personally I use the one of colorFabb which satisfies me completely and which is proposed in economic format. In addition, by taking a large quantity, they accept that we return the cartons and the reels support for them to be reused.
In conclusion, filament can be used easily in many situations, but in some cases you will have to consider choosing another.
Uses and filaments
Here is a non-exhaustive list of various uses for which the conventional PLA would not be suitable and the filaments that I advise you in exchange (source):
- High pressure: ABS, metal PLA
- High temperature: ABS, PC
- Average flexibility: PETG, nylon
- High flexibility: TPE/TPU/TPC
- Impact resistance: PETG, nylon
- Functional mechanical prototype: metal PLA, nylon
- Tools: metal PLA
- High wear (fold, compression, …): TPE/TPU/TPC
- Outdoor use: TPC
- Mechanical use: PC, carbon fiber
- Esthetic: wood PLA, metal PLA, phosphorescent, color changing filament
- Electronic: conductive filament
- Magnetic object: magnetic filament
- Print support: HIPS, PVA (use sparingly)
Of course, this is a non-exhaustive list, inspired by research, but it represents the wide variety of filaments that can currently be found on the market.
Do not use them all, I stay tuned for all your comments, additions or changes on the choice of filament.
Thank you for your reading and your attention, see you soon in a new article!
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