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Writer's pictureNikunj Gohil

Material Guide for FDM 3d Printing

Updated: Mar 11

Different thermoplastics have different properties. For functional prototypes and end-use parts- Nylon, CPE, PC, and ABS are common choices. PLA is the best choice for hobbyists and experimental. For flexibility Nylon, Polypropylene, TPU, and other flexible filaments are good choices.




 

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

  • Found in compostable cups.

  • Common in consumer grade printers.

  • Biodegradable.

  • Made from renewable resources such as corn, tapioca, or sugarcane.

  • Not recommended for extended outdoor use or temperatures above 50 degrees.


ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

  • Found in toys and consumer products.

  • Lightweight, high-impact resistance, and mechanical toughness.

  • Large spectrum of solid colors.

  • Transparent option available for industrial machines.


TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

  • Found in mobile phone cases.

  • Flexible and tear resistant.

  • Available in solid colors.

  • Wide variety of other flexible filaments.


Nylon

  • Found in mechanical parts or as fibers in clothing.

  • Strong, flexible, and durable.

  • Low friction and corrosion resistant.

  • Available in solid colors and transparent.


CPE


PC (Polycarbonate)

  • Found in glass substitutes.

  • Strong and tough.

  • Available in limited solid colors and transparent.

PP (Polypropylene)

  • Found in reusable food containers.

  • Flexible and tough.

  • Low-friction and smooth surfaces.

  • Available in transparent.

HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene)

  • Used as primary material.

  • Used as support material combined with ABS.

  • Dissolves in the chemical limonene.


PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol)

  • Water soluble support.

  • Paired with nylon or pla.









Let us know your favorite material !!

  • PLA

  • ABS

  • TPU

  • PETG





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