Friday, 7 July 2017

Discover The Different Kinds Of 3D Printer Filament And Their Uses

By Ronald Wallace


Filaments are materials that make up the thermoplastic that is used in 3D printing. These things are available in different types, and each has its own distinct characteristics and uses for any kind of project. According to standards, it has only two diameters, and also comes in different shades and tones.

The way this is made is through the process of applying heat, extruding, and then cooling off the plastic in order to transform it into the finished product. Interestingly, these plastic nurdles are transparent at first, with the different colors added as a final touch. Because there are so many, this article will be discussing the many types of 3D printer filament and its uses.

Being knowledgeable first should be done when deciding to buy one of these. This is for you to know which one is the best for your project, and the reasons why. It is better to avoid any additional expenses due to the wrong purchase being made. In order to figure out which one to get, the next few paragraphs will be discussing the standard filaments in the market today.

The first and most popular of its kind is called ABS. ABS is short for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and is used in a huge variety of applications because of its endurance and the fact that it is impact resistance. Apart from being tough, it still remains a certain elasticity which makes it the standard in typical printing projects.

Polylactic acid, or PLA is also known for its elasticity and endurance. Because of this, PLA is often being compared with ABS. But one the main difference, is that renewable resources are used to make them. This means it is very low toxic and as a result, has no odor and no longer has to be heated during the printing process.

The most environmentally friendly material is called polyethylene terephthalate, or PET for short. Because PET is made from plastic bottles that are recycled, it emits no odor and is clear when first produced. Due to its vapor barrier and toughness, it used in creating products for packaging like phone cases, for example.

HIPS is a type of biodegradable filament often used when packing compact discs, and creating trays used by doctors during life changing surgery. The reason for this, is due to the fact that it does not have any side effects when in close contact with animals and human beings.HIPS stands for high impact polystyrene, and is amongst the popular types.

Perhaps one of the most used materials is called polyamide, or more known as nylon. Not only lightweight, resistant to wear, and flexible, but cost effective as well. Due to these features, it is used in a multitude of projects. This includes containers, toys, bearings, machine parts, and even tools.

There are plenty more filaments that are used during 3D printing, but these are the most common and accessible. When finally going out to buy one, always make sure it will work well with the kind of project you are doing. This is to save time, energy, and money. The goal here is for you to be able to make an informed decision, based on facts.




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