Pla (Polylactic acid)
Polylactic acid, also known as PLA, is a thermoplastic monomer derived from renewable, organic sources such as corn starch or sugar cane, The sugar in these renewable materials are fermented and turned into lactic acid, which is then made into polylactic acid, or PLA.
PLA is a great first material to use as you are learning about 3D printing because it is easy to print, very inexpensive, and creates parts that can be used for a wide variety of applications. It is also one of the most environmentally friendly filaments on the market today.
| Bed | Build Surface | Extruder | Cooling |
| Temperature: 45-60 °C Heated Bed Optional Enclosure not required | Painter’s tape PEI Glass plate Glue stick | Temperature: 190-220 °C No special hot-end required | Part Cooling Fan Required Fan Speed: 100% |
Petg (Polyethylene terephthalate glycol)
Polyethylene terephthalate glycol, known as PETG or PET-G, is a thermoplastic polyester that delivers significant chemical resistance, durability, and formability for manufacturing. PETG is a Glycol Modified version of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), which is commonly used to manufacture water bottles. PETG has applications in a range of industries due to being resistant to heat, impact and solvents. It is widely used for packaging (both retail and medical), advertising displays and electronic insulators.
| Bed | Build Surface | Extruder | Cooling |
| Temperature: 75-90 °C Heated Bed Recommended Enclosure Not Required | Glue Stick Painter’s tape Textured Pei | Temperature: 230-250 °C No special hot-end required | Part Cooling Fan Required |
ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene)
As one of the most widely used filaments, ABS comes with excellent mechanical properties that make it stronger than normal PLA and PETG. It is ideal for creating functional parts, prototypes, and standard engineering components, ensuring long life and reliability. The acrylonitrile in ABS provides chemical and thermal stability, while the butadiene adds toughness and strength. The styrene gives the finished polymer a nice, glossy finish.
ABS is known for its toughness and impact resistance making it a great choice for outdoor or high temperature applications.
| Bed | Build Surface | Extruder | Cooling |
| Temperature: 95-110 °C Heated Bed Required Enclosure Recommended | Glass with ABS Slurry Textured Pei | Temperature: 220-250 °C No special hot-end required | Part Cooling Fan Not Required |
ASA (Acrylic Styrene Acrylonitrile)
Acrylic Styrene Acrylonitrile, popularly known as ASA is a 3D printable plastic with properties similar to ABS, It is an engineering thermoplastic that shares the same molecular structure as ABS, Warping is a common issue with ASA filaments. Later temperature differences, poor bed adhesion, and wrong nozzle temperature are some of the reasons why this issue arises. To avoid this an enclosure is highly recommended
| Bed | Build Surface | Extruder | Cooling |
| Temperature: 90-110 °C Heated Bed Required Enclosure Required | Kapton tape Textured Pei PET Sheets ABS/ASA Slurry | Temperature: 220-245 °C No special hotend required | Part Cooling Fan Not Required |