Types of Filaments: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
After testing more than 10 types of filaments in our workshop, here’s how to choose the right one based on your needs:
PLA Filament
– **Advantages**: Easy to print, ideal for beginners, wide variety of colors and finishes. Does not require a heated bed.
– **Disadvantages**: Less heat-resistant and less durable than other materials.
ABS Filament
– **Advantages**: High mechanical and thermal resistance, ideal for technical parts.
– **Disadvantages**: Requires a heated bed and proper ventilation (emits strong odors).
PETG Filament
– **Advantages**: Impact- and water-resistant, easy to print like PLA but more durable.
– **Disadvantages**: Can be sticky and may cause adhesion issues with the bed.
TPU Filament
– **Advantages**: Flexible, ideal for parts requiring elasticity like cases or gaskets.
– **Disadvantages**: Requires precise adjustments for speed and temperature.
Testing in the DunaTech Lab
At DunaTech, we tested these filaments on different printers (Ender 3, Prusa i3, and Bambulabs). Here are the most relevant results:
– **PLA**: Perfect for decorative pieces and quick prototypes. In our tests, PLA performed well even on budget printers.
– **ABS**: We printed electronic enclosures; the resistance was excellent but mandatory ventilation is required.
– **PETG**: Ideal for functional parts. In a water resistance test, printed pieces showed no degradation after 72 hours.
– **TPU**: Although challenging to handle, we successfully printed phone cases with great flexibility using low speeds (30 mm/s).
Common Mistakes When Using Filaments
Honestly, most problems we’ve seen in our workshop are not the fault of the filament itself but improper use. Here are the most frequent mistakes:
– **Incorrect temperature**: Using too high a temperature with PLA can cause extruder clogs.
– **Moist filament**: If the filament is moist (especially ABS and PETG), prints will have bubbles. Use a filament dryer like the Sovol if you encounter these issues.
– **Improper print speed**: TPU requires low speeds to avoid errors.
For more tips on handling moist filaments, check out our guide on how to use a Sovol filament dryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best filament for beginners?
Without a doubt, PLA is the easiest to use. It doesn’t require a heated bed or complicated adjustments.
How can I tell if my filament is moist?
If you hear small crackling sounds during printing or see bubbles in the layers, your filament is likely moist.
What temperature should I use for TPU?
Generally between 220°C and 240°C, but adjust according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Conclusion
Choosing the right filament depends on your project. For beginners, PLA is ideal. If you need durability, ABS or PETG are better options. And for flexible parts, TPU is a safe bet. Always keep your filaments dry and carefully adjust printing parameters to avoid issues.
— The DunaTech Team