Material | Characteristics | 3D Printing Considerations | Typical Applications |
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Polylactic Acid (PLA) | Easy to print, biodegradable, low warping, good surface finish | Low printing temperature; ideal for beginners; limited heat resistance | Prototyping, models, consumer products |
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) | Tough, impact-resistant, moderate heat resistance | Requires heated bed and enclosure; prone to warping; emits fumes | Automotive parts, housings, functional prototypes |
Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG) | Good strength, chemical resistance, and flexibility | Easy bed adhesion; minimal warping; moderate printing temperature | Mechanical parts, containers, outdoor applications |
Nylon (PA) | Strong, durable, flexible, abrasion-resistant | High printing temperature; moisture sensitive; may require heated chamber | Gears, mechanical parts, functional prototypes |
Polycarbonate (PC) | High strength, excellent impact and heat resistance | Requires high temperatures and an enclosed build; prone to warping | Functional prototypes, engineering parts, protective components |
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) | Flexible, elastic, durable, shock absorbent | Print at slower speeds; adjust retraction settings for flexible filament | Wearables, seals, gaskets, flexible components |
Resin (Photopolymer) | High detail, smooth finish, versatile properties | Requires post-curing; sensitive to light; high-resolution printing | Jewelry, dental models, miniatures |
Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) | Exceptional strength, high thermal and chemical resistance | Requires very high printing temperatures and specialized equipment; high cost | Aerospace, medical implants, high-performance components |
Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA) | UV and weather resistant, similar to ABS | Requires heated bed and enclosure; similar challenges to ABS | Outdoor parts, automotive exterior components |
Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Acrylic | Transparent, glossy finish, excellent optical clarity | Brittle; requires precise temperature control; limited mechanical strength | Light covers, displays, optical components |
Polyetherimide (ULTEM) PEI | High strength, excellent heat resistance, flame retardant | Requires very high temperatures and heated chamber; expensive material | Aerospace, electrical insulators, high-performance engineering parts |