Unlike subtractive printing, 3D printing represents the set of manufacturing processes that allow the creation of parts in volume, while adding materials in successive layers. For its operation, the 3D printer uses a raw material called filament.
On the market, there are several types of filaments depending on the printer model and the objects to be printed. The choice of filaments meets certain criteria which must therefore be taken into account to have an optimal print. This guide offers you some types of filaments for 3D printers as well as their specificities.
Principle of consumables for 3D printer
For 3D printers, there are different types of consumables (filaments, resins, and powders), with different characteristics. Indeed, the filament can be specific to the range of the 3D printer. The filaments are present in different aspects (phosphorescent, wood, HIPS, carbon, etc.). They are also found in a complete range (ABS or PLA).
As for resins, they are suitable for 3D printers used as video projectors to polymerize each layer of the print. Powders are used for printing flexible objects with possible printing shapes.
PLA, ASSA and HIPS filaments
PLA, ASA and HIPS filaments are among the different types of consumables most used for 3D printers. Each type of filament has its own characteristics and advantages.
PLA filaments
PLA (polylactic or polylactic acid) is made from recycled materials such as corn starch, beetroot, etc. It is biodegradable and environmentally friendly with a printing temperature between 160 and 210 °C. Not only does PLA not require a heated 3D printer bed, but it also does not emit any odor when printing.
It is a biomaterial with excellent bridling performance as well as good inter-layer bonding. Also, several filaments with metal, stone, or wood aspects use a PLA base. They are then filled with additive dusts.
ASA filaments
ASA filament (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is a plastic filament similar to ABS. It is more resistant to ultraviolet rays. When exposed to sunlight for a long time, it does not lose its colors.
This is one of the main reasons why this type of filament is widely used in the automotive industry. ASA filament comes in 2 classic diameters: 1.75mm ASA filament and 2.85mm ASA filament.
HIPS filaments
HIPS (High-impact polystyrene) filament allows you to print solid supports with a dual-extruder 3D printer. It is a filament that is used with ABS and dissolves in D-limonene, which is a lemon-based solvent.
Dissolution often takes a few hours. There are two types of HIPS filaments: the 1.75 mm HIPS filament and the 2.85 mm HIPS filament.
Criteria for choosing filaments for 3D printers
When choosing filaments for your 3D printer, it is important to take into account certain essential parameters. You must first check that the chosen filament corresponds to your 3D printer model. You must then compare the advantages of the different materials according to your requirements and needs.
For example, for printing a decorative object, you can choose a PLA filament. On the other hand, if it is the printing of a part that will undergo mechanical constraints, it is recommended to use an ABS filament. PET and PETG filaments are used for parts subjected to heavy printing. TPU filament is suitable for printing parts that will be folded or stretched such as bracelets.
