A Comprehensive Guide for Common 3D Printing Filaments and Their Properties

PLA (Polylactic Acid):

Uses: General-purpose filament, suitable for prototypes, consumer products, and artistic prints.

Temperature Resistance: Moderate heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around 60-65°C.

Chemical Resistance: Limited resistance to chemicals, susceptible to degradation in the presence of certain solvents.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene):

Uses: Durable prints, functional prototypes, and mechanical parts.

Temperature Resistance: Good heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around 95-105°C.

Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many common chemicals, but may be affected by some solvents and strong acids.

 

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate):

Temperature Resistance: ASA has good heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around 90-100°C, similar to ABS.

Chemical Resistance: ASA offers good resistance to many chemicals, including acids and alkalis. However, it may be susceptible to some solvents, so compatibility should be verified for specific chemicals.

Uses: ASA filament is known for its weather resistance and UV stability, making it suitable for outdoor applications such as signage, automotive parts, and functional prototypes.

 

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol):

Uses: Versatile filament with excellent strength and durability, suitable for mechanical parts, containers, and prototypes.

Temperature Resistance: Moderate heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around 80-85°C.

Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and water.

 

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane):

Uses: Flexible and elastic prints, such as rubber-like objects, gaskets, and wearables.

Temperature Resistance: Limited heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around -20 to 50°C, depending on the specific formulation.

Chemical Resistance: Generally resistant to oils and greases, but less resistant to solvents and certain chemicals.

 

Nylon:

Uses: Strong and durable prints, suitable for functional parts, mechanical components, and prototypes.

Temperature Resistance: Good heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around 80-90°C.

Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many chemicals, including oils, greases, and solvents.

 

PC (Polycarbonate):

Uses: High-strength prints, engineering parts, and applications requiring transparency.

Temperature Resistance: Excellent heat resistance, with a glass transition temperature around 135-150°C.

Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many chemicals, but may be affected by certain solvents and strong acids.

 

HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene):

Uses: Support material for ABS prints, used when dual-extrusion is available.

Temperature Resistance: Low heat resistance, typically used as a support material.

Chemical Resistance: Resistant to most common solvents but may be affected by strong acids and bases.

 

Please note that the glass transition temperature can slightly vary depending on the specific brand, formulation, and printing parameters. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and conduct testing to ensure the filament’s suitability for your specific application.