Filaments are materials that make up the thermoplastic that is used in 3D printing. These things are available in different types, and each has its own distinct characteristics and uses for any kind of project. According to standards, it has only two diameters, and also comes in different shades and tones.
By the thorough application of heat, the process of extruding, and the cooling of plastic, these materials are born. Even though these things come in so many colors, one should not that it actually starts of being colorless before different tones are applied in its production. To learn more about 3D printer filament, read on below.
Before purchasing one, you should know the difference between them and their attributes. This is done so you can decide which one will best suit your project. Buying the wrong type will not only cost more money, it will be a waste of the material as well.
The most well known and widely used is called ABS and it stands for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. Its most distinct feature is its capacity to retain its toughness, while being flexible. Other characteristics it possesses is its apparent longevity and being resistant to any kind of impact.
Another material distinguished by being flexible and tough is polylactic acid, otherwise known as PLA. Due to that fact, it is often draws comparisons with ABS. These two are different though because PLA is actually low toxic and odorless. This is because PLA is made up of renewable materials and as such, no longer needs to undergo heating process during printing.
The most environmentally friendly material is called polyethylene terephthalate, or PET for short. Because PET is made from plastic bottles that are recycled, it emits no odor and is clear when first produced. Due to its vapor barrier and toughness, it used in creating products for packaging like phone cases, for example.
HIPS is a type of biodegradable filament often used when packing compact discs, and creating trays used by doctors during life changing surgery. The reason for this, is due to the fact that it does not have any side effects when in close contact with animals and human beings.HIPS stands for high impact polystyrene, and is amongst the popular types.
Polyamide or more commonly called nylon is one of the most popularly used today. Aside from the cheapest one you can purchase in stores, nylon is incredibly lightweight and flexible. Not only that, nylon is wear resistant too. Due to the chemicals that comprise nylon, it is utilized in a lot of things like tools, containers, machine parts, and even toys made for children.
These are just a few of the varying kinds of filaments used in 3D printers. There are many more, but these are the standard and most popular of the bunch. Be aware though, that the best material should be the one that will correspond with the kind of project you will be conducting. Before purchasing one, weigh out the pros and cons first to avoid wasting materials and money.
By the thorough application of heat, the process of extruding, and the cooling of plastic, these materials are born. Even though these things come in so many colors, one should not that it actually starts of being colorless before different tones are applied in its production. To learn more about 3D printer filament, read on below.
Before purchasing one, you should know the difference between them and their attributes. This is done so you can decide which one will best suit your project. Buying the wrong type will not only cost more money, it will be a waste of the material as well.
The most well known and widely used is called ABS and it stands for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. Its most distinct feature is its capacity to retain its toughness, while being flexible. Other characteristics it possesses is its apparent longevity and being resistant to any kind of impact.
Another material distinguished by being flexible and tough is polylactic acid, otherwise known as PLA. Due to that fact, it is often draws comparisons with ABS. These two are different though because PLA is actually low toxic and odorless. This is because PLA is made up of renewable materials and as such, no longer needs to undergo heating process during printing.
The most environmentally friendly material is called polyethylene terephthalate, or PET for short. Because PET is made from plastic bottles that are recycled, it emits no odor and is clear when first produced. Due to its vapor barrier and toughness, it used in creating products for packaging like phone cases, for example.
HIPS is a type of biodegradable filament often used when packing compact discs, and creating trays used by doctors during life changing surgery. The reason for this, is due to the fact that it does not have any side effects when in close contact with animals and human beings.HIPS stands for high impact polystyrene, and is amongst the popular types.
Polyamide or more commonly called nylon is one of the most popularly used today. Aside from the cheapest one you can purchase in stores, nylon is incredibly lightweight and flexible. Not only that, nylon is wear resistant too. Due to the chemicals that comprise nylon, it is utilized in a lot of things like tools, containers, machine parts, and even toys made for children.
These are just a few of the varying kinds of filaments used in 3D printers. There are many more, but these are the standard and most popular of the bunch. Be aware though, that the best material should be the one that will correspond with the kind of project you will be conducting. Before purchasing one, weigh out the pros and cons first to avoid wasting materials and money.
About the Author:
Find an overview of the factors that affect 3D printer filament cost and view our filament selection at http://schoon.com/3d-filaments right now.
