fiber

3D printing filaments are long filament-like materials used in 3D printing technology, which are heated and extruded to build three-dimensional objects layer by layer. These filaments usually exist in the form of reels for easy storage and feeding into 3D printers.

A key decision in additive manufacturing is 3D printing filaments selection. Alfa Chemistry introduces you the properties and features of filament types, and it guides you on which filament is best for your application, so that your 3D printing project goes smoothly and you get an excellent finished product.

Working Principle

The working principle of 3D printing filaments is based on fused deposition modeling (FDM) or fused filament fabrication (FFF). FDM is one of the most common 3D printing methods. As of now, FDM desktop 3D printing is accessible in nearly all industries where models and prototypes are needed (mass production, even home entertainment), and is increasingly being used to direct-manufacture some goods.

The basic principle of FDM technology is to melt thermoplastic materials such as ABS, PLA, PETG, PC, TPU and their composite materials at high temperature, extrude them through the hot melt nozzle, and then quickly solidify and solidify when cooled, and then form a three-dimensional object through the swing of the print head on the plane and the downward displacement of the heating plate.

Common Filament Types

PLA (polylactic acid)

01
  • Features: Easy to use, low melting point, little shrinkage, non-toxic and low odor, especially good for beginners and low temperature projects.
  • Applicable scenarios: Suitable for teaching aids, toys, product models and other fields with relatively high environmental protection requirements.

ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer)

02
  • Features: ABS is impact and heat resistant. It has a drawback that it can release noxious gases on burning and will turn brown under the sun.
  • Applicable scenarios: Suitable for projects that require high strength and durability, such as automotive parts, tool housings, and electronic equipment housings.

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate)

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  • Features: PETG combines the ease of use of PLA with the durability of ABS, with good chemical resistance and high transparency. It is not easy to warp, has good interlayer adhesion, and is suitable for food-grade applications.
  • Applicable scenarios: Suitable for printing items that require high strength and high transparency, such as bottles, lampshades and other waterproof applications and snap-on components.

PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)

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  • Features: PEEK is a high-performance engineering plastic with extremely high heat resistance and mechanical strength. It is suitable for industrial applications that need to withstand high temperatures and high strength. Its cost is relatively high.
  • Applicable scenarios: Suitable for high-end industrial projects such as aerospace, medical equipment, and automotive parts.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

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  • Features: TPU is an extremely flexible material with good wear resistance and impact resistance. It is often used in projects that require soft and elastic parts.
  • Applicable scenarios: Suitable for consumer electronics, medical equipment, and automotive interiors, tire gaskets, etc. (flexible prototypes).

PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol)

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  • Features: PVA is a water-soluble material that is non-toxic and biodegradable, meets environmental protection requirements, and has good flexibility and strength.
  • Applicable scenarios: Suitable for creating models of complex geometric shapes, education and prototyping, as well as medical and bioengineering, etc.

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