Common 3D Printing Materials

 

the most Common 3D Printing or Additive Manufacturing Materials and Filaments are shown below:

3D Printing, also known as Additive Manufacturing, uses a variety of materials depending on the printing method and desired outcome. The most widely used technique is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), which primarily employs thermoplastic filaments. In general PLA and ABS are the most widely used materials for FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers due to their ease of use and affordability. PLA is biodegradable and easy to print with, while ABS is more durable and heat-resistant. PETG offers a good balance between ease of use and durability. Each material has its properties, strengths, and suitable applications.

Here's an overview of common materials:

  1. Polylactic Acid (PLA): (PLA) Filament has become one of the most common materials for 3D printing because it is easy to print, biodegradable, and bioderived from corn and other biomaterials.

    • Easy to print with, low warping, and minimal odor

    • Ideal for prototypes, low-wear toys, and decorative items

    • Limited heat resistance and durability

  2. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): is another common 3D printing filament. It is slightly less brittle than PLA and can handle higher temperatures however, it releases fumes when heated so it is advised to keep your print area well-ventilated during use.

    • Durable and heat-resistant

    • Requires higher print temperatures and may produce fumes

    • Suitable for functional parts, automotive components, and electronics housings

    • Can be post-processed with acetone for a smooth finish

  3. Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG): think plastic water bottles

    • Combines ease of use with durability

    • Good chemical resistance and water-resistant properties

    • Used for food-safe containers, mechanical parts, and outdoor items

  4. Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): or Ninjaflex

    • Flexible and elastic material

    • Excellent for creating shock-absorbing components, phone cases, and wearables

  5. Nylon: can be sourced with different chain lengths and is desirable for its high strength and high heat resistance.

    • High strength-to-weight ratio and durability

    • Good for functional prototypes, tools, and end-use parts

    • Can be challenging to print due to hygroscopic nature

  6. Polycarbonate (PC): is strong and can be a clear material.

    • Very strong and impact-resistant

    • High heat resistance

    • Used for engineering applications and protective gear

  7. Wood Fiber (Cellulose + PLA) Filament is a high-strength highly robust material made from wood fiber and typically PLA. It has the look, feel, and even the smell of natural wood.

    • PLA mixed with wood fibers for a wood-like appearance and feel

    • Suitable for decorative items and prototypes

  8. Metal-filled PLA:

    • PLA with metal powder for a metallic look and feel

    • Heavier than standard PLA, used for decorative pieces

  9. Carbon Fiber-filled:

    • Nylon or PETG with carbon fiber strands for increased strength

    • Ideal for lightweight, high-strength parts

  10. Poly Vinyl Alcohol (PVA) Filament is used as a support material for complex objects. After the printing process, the PVA can be dissolved away with water creating open spaces in the object.

    • Water-soluble material used for support structures

    • Dissolves easily, leaving a clean finish on complex prints

  11. High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS): is non-hygroscopic and can be used as dissolvable support as it dissolves in limonene. It can be easily painted, machined and sanded.

    • Can be used as a support material, dissolvable in limonene

    • Good for creating lightweight, impact-resistant parts

  12. Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate (ASA):

    • Similar to ABS but with better weather resistance

    • Ideal for outdoor applications and automotive parts

There are many Resins used for SLA (Stereolithography) and DLP (Digital Light Processing) printers with a wide range of material properties

  1. Resin (for SLA/DLP printers):

    • Provides high detail and smooth surface finish

    • Various formulations for different properties (tough, flexible, castable)

  2. Metal powders (for SLS/DMLS printers):

    • Used for creating functional metal parts

    • Materials include aluminum, titanium, stainless steel, and more

  3. Ceramic powders:

    • For specialized applications in industries like aerospace and medical

Each material has its unique properties, strengths, and weaknesses, making them suitable for different applications. The choice of material depends on the specific requirements of the project, such as mechanical properties, environmental resistance, biocompatibility, and post-processing needs.

I