Are you new to 3D printing and looking for an affordable and user-friendly material? Look no further than PLA (Polylactic Acid). Derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugar cane, PLA is not only environmentally friendly but also biodegradable. With its low printing temperature and no need for a heated bed, PLA is perfect for your desktop printer. However, keep in mind that PLA has limitations such as low heat resistance. Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need about PLA for successful 3D printing.
PLA Features and Overview
PLA is a popular material for desktop 3D printing, offering ease-of-use, dimensional accuracy, low cost, and rigidity. PLA material properties make it ideal for a wide range of applications. It is derived from organic sources such as corn starch or sugar cane, making it environmentally friendly and biodegradable. PLA can be printed at lower temperatures compared to other thermoplastics, eliminating the need for a heated bed.
When it comes to PLA printing techniques, there are several best practices to follow. Fine-tuning retraction settings can prevent oozing during printing, while optimizing cooling settings helps prevent stringing and artifacts. Choosing the correct extruder temperature is crucial for achieving optimal print quality. Using a fan that cools the printed part from all directions is also recommended.
There are several popular PLA filament brands available in the market. Some well-known manufacturers include Polymaker, Recreus, Smart Materials, BASF, UltiMaker, Stratasys, Prusa, and Zortrax. The price of PLA filament varies based on color and characteristics with standard filaments ranging from 20 to 70 euros per kilogram.
Overall, PLA offers numerous advantages in terms of material properties and printing techniques. It is widely used in various industries due to its accessibility and ease of use. By following proper printing techniques and using high-quality filament brands like those mentioned above, you can achieve excellent results with your PLA 3D prints
Pros and Cons of PLA
When considering the pros and cons of using PLA for 3D printing, you should take into account its low heat resistance and potential brittleness. Compared to other materials, such as ABS or PETG, PLA has a lower melting temperature and is not suitable for high temperature applications. This means that if your project requires parts that will be exposed to heat, PLA may not be the best choice.
In addition, PLA can be more brittle compared to other thermoplastics. While it is great for aesthetic purposes and decorative items, it may not be ideal for functional parts that require durability and strength. If your project involves components that need to withstand heavy loads or impacts, you might want to consider using a different material.
Another factor to consider is PLA’s performance in outdoor applications. Although PLA is biodegradable and derived from renewable sources like corn starch or sugar cane, it is not recommended for prolonged exposure to sunlight. Over time, UV rays can degrade the material, causing it to become brittle and lose its structural integrity.
Hardware Requirements for PLA
To successfully print with PLA, it is important to ensure that your bed temperature is set between 45-60 °C and that you have a part cooling fan at 100% speed. The bed temperature requirements for PLA are relatively low compared to other materials, making it easier to work with. This temperature range helps in achieving good adhesion between the printed object and the build surface.
When it comes to build surface options, there are several choices available. You can use painters tape, PEI (Polyetherimide), a glass plate, or a glue stick as a build surface for PLA. These surfaces provide a good grip for the filament and help in preventing warping or curling of the printed object.
In terms of extruder temperature range, PLA generally requires an extruder temperature of 190-220 °C. It is important to note that no special hot-end is required for printing PLA. This wide temperature range allows flexibility in adjusting the extruder temperature based on the specific characteristics of your filament.
Best Practices for Printing With PLA
If you want to achieve optimal print quality with PLA, make sure to fine-tune your retraction and cooling settings. Retraction refers to the process of pulling filament back slightly when moving between different areas of a print. This helps prevent oozing or stringing, which can occur when excess filament is left behind during travel moves. By adjusting the retraction distance and speed in your slicing software, you can minimize these issues.
Another important factor for optimizing PLA prints is cooling. PLA has a relatively low melting temperature compared to other thermoplastics, which means it can be prone to stringing if not properly cooled. Using a part cooling fan that directs airflow towards the printed part can help dissipate heat and solidify the layers more quickly, preventing stringing and artifacts.
Choosing the right PLA temperature is also crucial for achieving high-quality prints. The recommended extruder temperature for PLA typically ranges from 190-220°C, but this may vary depending on the specific brand or type of filament you are using. It’s important to experiment with different temperatures within this range to find the optimal setting for your particular setup.
Getting Started With PLA
Start exploring the world of PLA by reviewing common applications and project ideas. PLA, or Polylactic Acid, is a widely used material for 3D printing. It offers a range of benefits such as ease-of-use, dimensional accuracy, low cost, and no heated bed requirement. Common applications of PLA include creating decorative elements, gadgets, toys, and prototypes in various industries.
When getting started with PLA, it’s important to consider the different brands available in the market. Some popular PLA brands include Polymaker, Recreus, Smart Materials, BASF, UltiMaker, Stratasys, Prusa, and Zortrax. Each brand may have its own unique properties and characteristics that can affect print quality and performance.
Comparing PLA properties with other materials is also essential to understand its advantages and limitations. Compared to ABS and PETG filaments, PLA has lower heat resistance but offers easier post-processing and a wide variety of color options.
