Top 7 Materials for 3D Printing

3D printing machines have come a long way since their inception in the mid-1980s. They have become faster and more accurate over time with new 3D printing technologies getting announced regularly. Just about every industry is now starting to utilize 3D printing in the production of goods and has even shown promise for innovative potential uses in industrial engineering.

There are dozens of different types of 3D printing methods available today, which include FDM, SLA, SLS and more. Because of its diversity, sometimes choosing the right method and the right material can be a little tricky. That’s why using 3D printing services like NEsolution can help you make the best out of this rapidly growing technology.

3D printing is especially useful when it comes to prototyping and early production. Because of its freedom of creating almost any shape, you don’t need expensive plastic injection moulds and doesn’t require minimum order quantities which is great for 1 offs but can also be scaled up to larger quantities. A 3D printing service is all you need, like NEsolution Australia. Just make your order and receive your product in your needed quantity.

3D Printing Using FDM

FDM or fused deposition modelling is a type of 3D printing that is highly versatile. With layers of a design created by fusing each layer to the next, FDM printing is useful for creating models in a wide range of scales.

This means that using FDM printers is not only cost-effective but also creates durable designs that hold up under pressure. In addition, FDM printing can also give a design added flexibility, and because FDM printing is very efficient, it’s an ideal choice for many 3D printing needs.

Most printing services like NEsolution based in Australia can help you in your printing journey and ensure that your project is printed with the best 3d printing raw materials for its function and application.

Materials Used in FDM 3D Printing

PLA

PLA is widely used for a 3D printing process, which can be used by both hobbyists and professionals. PLA has a unique feature: it is sourced from plants like corn, and it’s biodegradable. It is usually a cheaper option for printing. Good for visual prototypes and large pieces.

Pros

It is easy to print.
It is environmentally friendly.
It has good strength and rigidity.

Cons

PLA is not very resistant to sun.
Heat and humidity can easily affect your prints.

ABS

ABS is also a very popular material used in 3D printing. It can be used for projects which require more strength and medium heat resistance. ABS is commonly used in medical devices, car parts, and load-bearing parts with heat resistance.

Pros

ABS is very strong.
It is also resistant to heat (up to 70°C continous).
Good for load bearing parts
High printing accuracy.

Cons

It is hard to print. Without professional level 3D printers.
Poor UV resitance unless protected (post processing)
High friction and wear

PC

PC or polycarbonate is one of the best choices regarding strength and heat resistance. It is widely used for making windows, water pipes, protective gear, exterior lighting fixtures, car parts, and so on.

Pros

Incredible strength and heat resistance.
Usable for engeering applications
UV protected
Light in weight
High impact resistance

Cons

Requires profession 3D printer with heated chamber.
Not food safe
Poor chemical resitance

Nylon

Nylon is a very good choice if you’re looking for strength and heat resistance for your product. Also, it has a lot of different composite variations like carbon fibre infused nylon. Carbon fibre infused Nylon comes with many advantages. Parts made out of carbon fibre infused Nylon are lightweight and strong. This material is generally used for final products, functional prototyping, early production and mould design.

Pros

High toughness.
Lightweight.
Different Nylon types available in the market for different applications.
Heat resistant.
Oil and chemical resistance.

Cons

Nylon requires very high temperatures to print A quality parts.
It is quite hard to work with.
Can be expensive.
Rough surface finish.

PETG

PETG is a non-smelling, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly 3D printing material. It can be easily recycled. It is commonly used for electric and electronic products, stationers, and cosmetic containers.

Pros

Good toughness.
High transparency and good gloss.
Ease of recycling.
Good hygroscopic properties.

Cons

Not UV-resistant.
Draws in moister easily
Susceptible to stringing

TPU

TPU is a flexible material that can be used in FDM 3D printing. It is used for drive belts, footwear, power tools, and other applications where rubber-like material is required.

Pros

High elasticity.
Good abrasion resistance.
Low shrinkage.

Cons

Requires good 3D printing machine
Susceptible to stringing

ASA

ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) was developed as an alternative to ABS in the 1970s and has become a very popular printing material in automotive and sporting goods. ASA provides increased resistance to weather and incredible strength and rigidity.

Pros

Good Uv resistance.
Tough and durable.
High impact resistance.
Soluble in acetone.
High temperature resistance.

Cons

Requires high temperature for printing.
Prone to warping, cracking, and shrinking during 3D printing.
Can release dangerous fumes.
Limited in terms of variety of colors.

See What FDM 3D Printing Can Do for Your Project Today!

Using a 3D printing service for your printing needs has never been more cost-effective. As the 3D printing industry continues to make strides in innovation, more people are choosing to use 3D printing as their main method of production, whether large or small.

Whether you’re located in Australia or around the globe, NEsolution can help you with your 3D printing needs. If you aren’t sure about what material you might need, or what scale would best represent your design, we’re here to answer any question you might have.

To find out more about how NEsolution can bring your design needs to the next level, contact us here.

Top 7 Materials for 3D Printing