3D printer filament plays a critical role in the manufacturing process that involves 3D printing. If you want to get your desired results, then you need to get the best 3d printer filament brand. With different varieties available, such as PLA and ABS, you need to know what to look for when choosing filament material. Therefore, you need to consider different things such as color, material, and type for your projects.
Finding 3D Printer Filament
Consider End Result
You ought to consider what you print when choosing 3D printing filament. By taking into account the desired uses, you can pick the best product. For instance, some standard PLA filaments are ideal for regular printing and PVA perfect for plastic printing.
Printer Compatibility
After deciding the end result, you need to ensure the filament you choose is compatible with the model of the available 3D printer. In this way, you can get the best filament that improves your prints. Moreover, you need to consider the temperature of the extruder.
Color
You can find 3D printer filament available in a wide range of colors. It is easier to set up colored filaments on the printer. If budget is an issue, you should go for natural colored filaments. There are also wood filaments for creating wood-like objects.
Budget
There are various grades of filament materials, and their prices vary depending on the type of filament. The most affordable material is plastic. Other materials such as metal, composite wood, mineral 3D, and stainless steel printing filaments are expensive.
Size
You should consider the diameter of the filament. You will find 3D printer filament available in 1.75 mm and 3.0 mm. Every model of the printer works with a single diameter. Therefore, you should confirm the documentation before you order. However, there are some printers that can use filaments with diameters other than 3.00 and 1.75.
Type of 3D Printer Filament
You can find a wide range of 3D printer filaments on the market. Some have similar characteristics, whereas others are very different. The major types of filaments are ABS, PVA, and PLA.
ABS
This is a strong and durable material. Also, it is resistant to heat and relatively flexible. These types of filaments are regarded to be the cheapest and widely used in 3D manufacturing. ABS is suitable for various applications, but it produces a lot of fumes during the printing process. Therefore, printing must be done in a ventilated room.
PLA
Unlike ABS, PLA is biodegradable material sourced from renewable sources. That makes the material environmentally friendly. Also, it does not have adverse effects on the body. As a result, the filament is suitable for making medical industry products. You will also find it to be more flexible and shatterproof as compared to other types of filaments.
PVA
Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is used in 3D printers to offer to support to objects without layers below them. The main disadvantage of this material is that it needs special storage requirements. Besides, it is relatively expensive and difficult to source.
