After over a year of research, countless filament spools, and hundreds of hours of printing, our team is proud to present the Ultimate 3D Printing Materials Guide. Covering over a dozen of the most popular materials in use today, this guide will help you select the best material for your next project or improve the quality of your prints with tips from our experts. Use the tags below to quickly sort the materials based on their characteristics, or view our extensive Filament Properties Table for a detailed side-by-side comparison. Once you have selected a material, view a detailed article with pros and cons, hardware requirements, best practices, pro tips, example projects, and more! Whether you’re new to 3D printing or an advanced user looking to experiment with a new material, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your next project.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the right 3D printer material to achieve the desired strength, durability, flexibility, and visual appeal.
- Consider factors such as intended use, mechanical properties, printing process, and post-processing requirements when selecting a material.
- FDM, SLA, and SLS are common 3D printing technologies, each with its own set of suitable materials.
- Printing with different materials may require specific settings and adjustments for optimal results.
- Experiment, explore, and have fun discovering the power of different 3D printer materials.
The Importance of Choosing the Right 3D Printer Material
When it comes to 3D printing, selecting the right filament is crucial for achieving high-quality prints. The choice of material significantly impacts the strength, durability, flexibility, and visual appeal of your final product. With a wide range of options available, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you choose the best 3D printer material for your specific project.
Consider the Intended Use:
Think about the purpose of the printed object. Will it be used for functional prototypes, artistic creations, or practical everyday items? The intended use will determine the required characteristics and properties of the material, such as toughness, heat resistance, chemical resistance, or flexibility.
Evaluate Mechanical Properties:
The mechanical properties of the filament play a significant role in the performance of the printed object. Determine whether you need a material with high strength, impact resistance, or elasticity based on the demands of your project. Consider the mechanical stress the printed object will be subjected to and choose a material that can withstand it.
Understand the Printing Process:
Each material has specific requirements regarding temperature, cooling, and other print settings. Some filaments may require a heated bed or an enclosed print chamber to ensure optimal results. Consider the capabilities and limitations of your 3D printer and choose a material that is compatible with its specifications.
Account for Specific Requirements or Constraints:
Depending on your project, you may have specific requirements or constraints that influence your material selection. For example, if you're printing an object that will come into contact with food or skin, you'll need a material that is safe and non-toxic. Similarly, if your project requires transparency or color vibrancy, choose a filament that offers the desired visual characteristics.
Choosing the right 3D printer material is essential for achieving the desired results in your prints. By considering the intended use, evaluating mechanical properties, understanding the printing process, and accounting for specific requirements or constraints, you can make informed decisions and select the best 3D printer filament options for your project.
Comparison of Top 3D Printing Materials:
| Material | Strength | Durability | Flexibility | Visual Appeal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ABS | High | High | Low | Good |
| PLA | Medium | Medium | Medium | Excellent |
| PETG | High | Medium | High | Good |
| Nylon | High | High | High | Fair |
| TPU | Low | Low | High | Excellent |
FDM 3D Printing Materials
Fused deposition modeling (FDM) is the most widely used form of 3D printing at the consumer level. It is known for its affordability, ease of use, and versatility. When it comes to FDM 3D printing materials, there are several top-rated options available. These materials offer different characteristics and applications, allowing you to achieve the desired results for your projects. Here are some of the popular 3D printer filament brands:
- ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene): Known for its strength, toughness, and heat resistance, ABS is a common choice for functional and durable prints.
- PLA (polylactic acid): PLA is a bio-based filament that is easy to print with and offers good dimensional accuracy. It is often used for prototypes, art projects, and models.
- PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol): PETG combines the strength and durability of ABS with the ease of printing of PLA. It is a popular choice for functional prints that require toughness.
- Nylon: Nylon filaments are known for their durability, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear. They are suitable for printing mechanical parts and functional prototypes.
- TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane): TPU is a flexible filament that offers excellent elasticity and impact resistance. It is commonly used for printing items such as phone cases and shoe soles.
- PVA (polyvinyl alcohol): PVA is a water-soluble support material that is used with dual-extruder 3D printers. It allows for the creation of complex prints with intricate designs.
- HIPS (high impact polystyrene): HIPS is a versatile material that is similar to ABS. It is often used as a support material for printing complex or large-scale models.
- Various composites: There are also a variety of composite filaments available, such as wood-filled, metal-filled, and carbon fiber-filled filaments. These composites offer unique aesthetics and enhanced properties.
Each material has its unique characteristics and applications, ranging from toughness and heat resistance to flexibility and water solubility. When choosing a 3D printer filament, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your project to ensure you achieve the desired results. Popular 3D printer filament brands provide a wide range of options to suit your needs and creativity.
SLA 3D Printing Materials
Stereolithography (SLA) is a popular 3D printing technology that enables the creation of high-resolution prints with exceptionally smooth surfaces. SLA 3D printing materials offer a wide range of properties and applications, making them suitable for various projects.
Some common SLA materials include:
- Standard resins: These resins provide excellent detail and surface finish, making them ideal for intricate designs and visual prototypes.
- Clear resin: Clear resins offer transparency, allowing for the creation of transparent or translucent objects. They are commonly used in applications such as optics and jewelry.
- Draft resin: Draft resins are cost-effective and allow for rapid prototyping. While they may not offer the same level of surface finish as other resins, they are great for initial design validation and testing.
- Tough and durable resins: These resins are known for their high impact resistance and strength. They are suitable for functional prototypes and parts that require durability.
- Rigid resins: Rigid resins provide stiffness and mechanical stability, making them suitable for applications that require structural integrity.
- Polyurethane resins: Polyurethane resins offer excellent flexibility and elasticity, enabling the creation of flexible parts and prototypes.
- High-temp resin: High-temp resins can withstand elevated temperatures, making them suitable for applications involving heat or thermal resistance.
- Flexible and elastic resins: These resins offer enhanced flexibility and elasticity, allowing for the creation of stretchable and bendable objects.
- Silicone resin: Silicone resins are used for applications that require a soft, rubber-like texture. They are commonly used in industries such as healthcare and consumer products.
- Medical and dental resins: These resins are specifically formulated for medical and dental applications. They meet stringent biocompatibility and bioresistance requirements.
SLA 3D printing materials offer a range of mechanical, thermal, and optical properties, providing designers and engineers with increased design flexibility and the ability to create functional prototypes. Whether you require high-resolution visual models, parts with specific strength requirements, or flexible components, there is an SLA material to meet your needs.
Why Choose SLA 3D Printing Materials?
SLA materials offer several advantages:
- High-resolution prints with smooth surfaces
- Wide range of material options for various applications
- Ability to create intricate and detailed designs
- Option to produce transparent or translucent objects
- Strong and durable parts for functional prototypes
- Flexibility and elasticity for flexible components
- Heat and temperature resistance for specialized applications
- Soft and rubber-like textures for specific industries
- Medical and dental materials that meet industry requirements
With the diverse array of SLA materials available, designers and engineers can confidently choose the most suitable material for their specific project needs, whether it be in the fields of aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, healthcare, or beyond.
Continue reading for an in-depth comparison of popular 3D printing materials in our comprehensive Filament Properties Table.
SLS 3D Printing Materials
Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a 3D printing technology known for its ability to produce strong, functional parts. SLS 3D printing materials are commonly used in engineering and manufacturing applications. The most common material for SLS is nylon, which offers excellent mechanical characteristics and strength. SLS parts have isotropic properties, meaning their strength is consistent regardless of orientation. The technology is ideal for creating complex geometries with interior features, thin walls, and negative features. While the material selection for SLS is more limited compared to FDM and SLA, the available materials offer superb mechanical characteristics and are suitable for a wide range of functional applications.
Advantages of SLS 3D Printing Materials:
- Strong and functional parts
- Excellent mechanical characteristics
- Isotropic properties
- Ideal for complex geometries
- Compatible with interior features, thin walls, and negative features
Disadvantages of SLS 3D Printing Materials:
- Limited material selection compared to FDM and SLA
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Nylon | Excellent mechanical characteristics, strong and functional parts limited | d material selection |
Considerations When Choosing a 3D Printing Material
When it comes to 3D printing, selecting the right filament is crucial for the success of your project. To make an informed decision, consider the following factors:
Intended Use
Think about the purpose of your printed object. Do you need it to be strong and durable, or is flexibility important? Consider the specific properties required for your project, such as heat resistance, chemical resistance, or water solubility.
Mechanical Properties
Identify the desired mechanical characteristics of your printed object. Does it need to be rigid, have high impact resistance, or be able to withstand certain forces? Different materials offer varying levels of strength, toughness, and elasticity.
Printing Process
Understand your 3D printer's capabilities and limitations. Some printers may only work with specific filaments, while others can handle a wide range of materials. Consider the printer's extruder temperature, bed adhesion requirements, and compatibility with different filament types.
Availability and Cost
Check the availability and cost of the filament you plan to use. Some materials might be more niche or expensive, which could impact your project budget and timeline.
Printability
Review the printability of the filament. Some materials may require specific print settings, such as temperature, cooling, or infill density. It's important to choose a material that is compatible with your printer and can be successfully printed without issues like warping or stringing.
Post-Processing Requirements
Consider any post-processing steps your printed object may require. Some materials may need additional treatments like sanding, painting or smoothing to achieve the desired finish.
Color Options
If color is important for your project, check the availability of filament colors for the material you're considering. Some filaments offer a wide range of color options, while others may be more limited.
Compatibility with Your 3D Printer
Ensure that the filament you choose is compatible with your specific 3D printer model. Consult your printer's manufacturer guidelines or user manual to determine the recommended filaments and best practices for printing.
A thoughtful evaluation of these considerations will guide you in choosing the right 3D printing material for your specific project, allowing you to achieve the desired results and maximize the potential of your 3D prints.
Quick Overview
| Consideration | What to Evaluate |
|---|---|
| Intended Use | Strength, durability, flexibility |
| Mechanical Properties | Strength, impact resistance, elasticity |
| Printing Process | Extruder temperature, bed adhesion |
| Availability and Cost | Material availability, project budget |
| Printability | Temperature, cooling, infill density post |
| t-Processing Requirements | Sanding, painting, smoothing |
| Color Options | Range of filament colors |
| Compatibility | 3D printer model compatibility |
Tips for Successful 3D Printing with Different Materials
Printing with different materials requires some adjustments and considerations to achieve the best results. Each material has its unique characteristics and may require specific print settings, such as temperature, cooling, infill density, and support structures. Understanding the specific requirements and recommended settings for each material can help you optimize your prints and avoid issues such as warping, stringing, or poor adhesion between layers. Additionally, proper storage and handling of filaments are important to prevent moisture absorption and maintain filament quality. By following best practices and experimenting with different settings, you can achieve successful 3D prints with a variety of materials.
Adjusting Print Settings
When working with different 3D printing materials, you'll need to adjust your print settings to accommodate their specific properties. Each material has different temperature requirements for optimal printing. For example, PLA typically prints at a lower temperature than ABS. It's important to consult the manufacturer's guidelines or reliable online resources for the recommended temperature range for each material.
Cooling is another important factor to consider. Some materials, like PLA, benefit from increased cooling to improve print quality and reduce the risk of overheating. On the other hand, materials like ABS may require less cooling to avoid warping and cracking during the printing process. Experiment with different cooling settings to find the right balance for each material.
Infill density, or the amount of internal structure within a print, can also impact the strength and durability of your 3D prints. Some materials may require higher infill percentages to ensure structural integrity, while others may perform well with lower infill densities. Consider the intended use of your print and adjust the infill density accordingly.
Support Structures and Rafts
When printing with certain materials, such as ABS or Nylon, you may need to use support structures and rafts to ensure successful prints. Support structures are temporary structures that are printed alongside your object and provide support for overhanging or intricate features. Rafts, on the other hand, create a solid base for your print and help improve adhesion to the build plate.
Before printing, ensure that your 3D printer is properly calibrated and capable of generating reliable support structures and rafts. Adjust the settings in your slicing software to generate support structures and rafts as needed, and carefully remove them after printing to achieve the desired final result.
Storage and Filament Handling
Proper storage and handling of filaments are crucial for maintaining filament quality. Moisture absorption can negatively affect the printing properties of many filaments, especially those made from hygroscopic materials like Nylon or PETG. Store your filaments in airtight containers with desiccant packs to prevent moisture from seeping in.
When handling filaments, be mindful of cleanliness and avoid touching the filament with bare hands, as oils and dirt can affect print quality. Consider using filament dryers or filament storage solutions to optimize the storage conditions and extend the lifespan of your filaments.
Experimentation is key when it comes to 3D printing with different materials. Don't be afraid to try out new settings, materials, and techniques. Be patient, keep track of your results, and learn from each print. By following these tips and continuously refining your printing process, you can unlock the full potential of a wide range of 3D printing materials.
Conclusion
The world of 3D printing materials is vast and constantly evolving. With the ultimate 3D printer materials list and this comprehensive guide, you now have the knowledge to navigate through the options available and choose the right material for your specific project. Whether you need toughness, heat resistance, flexibility, or visual appeal, there is a filament that can meet your needs.
By considering factors such as intended use, mechanical properties, printing process, and post-processing requirements, you can make an informed decision and unlock the full potential of your 3D printing projects. Experiment, explore, and have fun discovering the power of different 3D printer materials.
Remember, this 3D printer materials guide is just the beginning. Keep yourself updated with the latest advancements in materials and techniques, and don't be afraid to try new things. With the right material and a little creativity, the possibilities are endless. So go ahead, dive into the 3D printer filament buying guide, and start bringing your ideas to life in three dimensions.
FAQ
Why is it important to choose the right 3D printer material?
The filament you use can significantly impact the strength, durability, flexibility, and visual appeal of your prints. Choosing the right material ensures that your prints meet your expectations and perform as intended.
What are some common FDM 3D printing materials?
Common FDM materials include ABS, PLA, PETG, Nylon, TPU, PVA, and HIPS.
What are some common SLA 3D printing materials?
Common SLA materials include standard resins, clear resin, draft resin, tough and durable resins, rigid resins, polyurethane resins, high-temp resin, flexible and elastic resins, silicone resin, and medical and dental resins.
What is the most common material for SLS 3D printing?
The most common material for SLS is nylon, which offers excellent mechanical characteristics and strength.
What factors should I consider when choosing a 3D printing material?
Factors to consider include the intended use of the printed object, desired mechanical properties, printing process, availability and cost of the filament, and any specific requirements or constraints.
How can I achieve successful 3D prints with different materials?
It's important to understand the specific requirements and recommended settings for each material, as well as proper storage and handling. Experimenting with different settings and following best practices can help optimize your prints.