Filament is the material used in 3D printing to create three-dimensional objects. It is an essential component of 3D printing, and understanding its basics and different types of materials can enhance the quality and efficiency of 3D printing.
The most common type of material used for 3D printing is thermoplastics, a type of plastic that becomes liquid when heated and solidifies when cooled. It is highly versatile, affordable, and easy to use, making it a popular choice. The term “filament” is often used to refer specifically to thermoplastic filaments used in 3D printing.
The most common thermoplastic filament in 3D printing is called polylactic acid (PLA), made from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It is biodegradable and environmentally friendly, with a lower melting point than other thermoplastics, making it easier to use. However, it has a weaker structure than other filaments and is more prone to warping.
Another common thermoplastic filament is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), commonly used in the production of mass-manufactured plastic parts. It is more robust and tougher than PLA, but it is also more challenging to print. ABS filament needs a higher temperature and controlled settings to prevent warping.
Apart from ABS and PLA, other materials such as nylon, PET, and TPU are also commonly used as 3D printing filaments. These materials offer unique properties such as flexibility, transparency, strength, and resistance to high temperatures, enabling 3D printing to produce objects beyond plastic parts.
In conclusion, understanding filament is crucial in 3D printing, and the availability of a wide range of filaments with different characteristics gives limitless possibilities. Whether you are a novice or an experienced 3D printing enthusiast, considering the types of materials and its properties can lead to better results and more creative projects.#16#