Discover everything you need to know about 3D printing in this comprehensive guide. Learn about the operating principles, materials used, how to prepare the model for printing, the printing process, and possible applications.
3d printer filament
3D printer filament is a material used in 3D printing to create a physical object from a digital model. It is a long, thin strand of plastic, metal, or composite material that is fed into a 3D printer and melted down to create the desired shape layer by layer.
There are many different types of 3D printer filament available on the market, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Some common types of filament include:
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): This is a commonly used plastic filament that is known for its strength and flexibility. It is often used to create functional parts and prototypes.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): This is a durable and impact-resistant filament that is easy to print with. It is often used to create parts that require high strength and durability.
PLA (Polylactic Acid): This is a biodegradable plastic filament that is made from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcane. It is easy to print with and produces smooth, high-quality parts.
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate): This is a strong and durable filament that is often used to create parts that require high impact resistance. It is also easy to print with and produces smooth, high-quality parts.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): This is a flexible filament that is ideal for creating parts with a rubber-like feel. It is often used to create gaskets, seals, and other flexible parts.
In addition to these common filament types, there are also many specialty filaments available, such as wood-based filaments, metal-based filaments, and even glow-in-the-dark filaments.
When choosing a filament for your 3D printing project, it is important to consider the specific properties and characteristics of the material to ensure that it is suitable for your needs. Factors to consider include the strength and durability of the filament, its flexibility, and its compatibility with your 3D printer.