CUSTOM 3D Printing
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PLA (Polylactic acid) is a plant-based polyester. PLA does not require a heated bed, can be printed fast and with low temperatures. With PLA you can print both small, detailed models and large objects filling almost the entire print volume. Unlike some other filaments, PLA is not prone to significant warping. It is good for quick prototyping and creation of nice, low-cost models: concepts, prototypes, simple toys, jewelry, statues, etc. It is not suitable for technical and outdoor use. It doesnโt resist high temperatures, degrades under UV light and its mechanical resistance is also inferior - it breaks along layers or into shards upon impact. Layer adhesion is weaker compared to other materials. Sanding PLA is possible with sandpaper but needs water cooling (wet sanding).
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate modified with Glycol) is a commonly used technical material, popular among 3D printer users for its low price and good printability. Itโs tenacious, with good temperature resistance; PETG is most commonly used for printing various mechanical parts, holders, clamps, and waterproof parts (thanks to great layer adhesion).
PETG has a glossy surface, adheres greatly to a print sheet, and does not shrink or warp (it has very little thermal expansion), therefore itโs suitable for printing large models. Plus, its high tenacity and flexibility often prevent it from breaking. Due to good temperature resistance, PETG parts are suitable both for interior and most exterior use.ย
ASA (Acrylic Styrene Acrylonitrile) is a technical material that is considered a successor to ABS. Compared to ABS, ASA is more UV resistant, warps less, and doesnโt smell as much. ASA is a tough and resilient material that is, thanks to its UV and temperature resistance, suitable for outdoor use and for making technical parts. Another great advantage of ASA is its solubility in acetone, which can be used to make a smooth and glossy finish. This gives the model not only great looks but also different mechanical properties (see our article about chemical smoothing).
ABS is generally used for making inexpensive, sturdy mechanical parts (LEGO bricks, car parts, cellphone parts, etc.). The material is tenacious and high-temperature resistant. This makes it suitable for engineering parts, etc. Compared to ASA, there is slightly worse UV resistance and more significant warping and odor during printing. Note that ABS parts used outdoor turn yellowish and more brittle over time.