The world of 3D printing materials is diverse – and sometimes confusing. Each filament type comes with its own properties, strengths, and weaknesses. But what exactly distinguishes the individual materials like PLA, PETG, or ABS? And what should you consider when choosing? In this blog post, we aim to shed some light on the subject. We will first provide a detailed overview of the most important filament types and their properties, before providing a clear list at the end to help you make your selection. It’s important to keep in mind that there can be differences even within a filament type – depending on the composition and manufacturer. Our overview is intended to help you find the right filament for your project and make optimal use of the diverse possibilities of 3D printing.
PLA – The Ideal Material for Decorative 3D Printing Projects
PLA (polylactic acid) is one of the most popular and cost-effective materials in 3D printing. It is characterized by its ease of use and is excellent for decorative applications, as it is available in many colors.
However, PLA is less suitable for industrial applications because it lacks the robustness to withstand greater loads. The material also shows weaknesses at higher temperatures, as it is not particularly heat-resistant. Additionally, its UV sensitivity makes PLA unsuitable for outdoor use.
PLA is made from biological raw materials (e.g., corn starch) and is therefore food-safe in its pure form. Chemically, it shows only moderate resistance to alcohol and weak acids, while it is sensitive to strong acids and acetone.
Thanks to its easy printability, PLA is ideal for beginners and the best choice for aesthetic, less stressed 3D printing projects.
PETG – Versatile Material for Robust and Functional Applications
PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) is a versatile material that is particularly distinguished by its combination of stability and ease of use. It offers high breaking strength and rigidity, but is prone to scratches. PETG withstands moderate temperatures and is priced in the lower mid-range.
Typical applications for PETG include concept and functional components, as well as food packaging. The material impresses with its high transparency and is available in many colors. However, it is not paintable.
PETG shows good weather resistance, but only moderate UV resistance. In its pure form, it is food-safe and therefore particularly interesting for applications in the food sector. Chemically, PETG is resistant to alcohol and weak acids, but sensitive to strong acids and acetone.
Due to its easy and odorless printability, PETG is also suitable for beginners who have already gained initial experience with 3D printers. Nevertheless, care should be taken to store the material dry, as it easily absorbs moisture, which can lead to stringing during printing. PETG is therefore the ideal choice for robust and functional projects that require stability and transparency.
ABS – The Durable Material for Demanding Applications
ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a robust material characterized by its high temperature and dimensional stability.
ABS shows its strength especially in components that must withstand high stress, which makes it particularly attractive for industrial and functional applications. However, the material is not very UV-resistant and tends to yellowing and embrittlement when exposed to sunlight, which limits its use outdoors.
Printing with ABS requires experience, as it needs a closed build space and constant temperatures to minimize warping. Pre-drying the material is also essential. For reliable adhesion to the print bed, the use of an adhesive stick is recommended. In addition, odors are produced during printing.
Food safety is only guaranteed with certain brands of ABS, which should be considered before use. Chemically, the material has good resistance to alcohols, oils, and acids and bases, but is susceptible to acetone.
Thanks to its affordability, stability, and resilience, ABS is the perfect choice for demanding technical applications, provided the printing challenges are taken into account.
ASA – The Weather-Resistant Material for Technical Applications
ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) is a heat-stable material that is primarily distinguished by its excellent weather resistance. It is inexpensive and offers high scratch and abrasion resistance.
Thanks to its weather and UV resistance, ASA is ideal for applications in construction or in technical components that must withstand external influences in the long term. Compared to other materials, it impresses with its durability under demanding environmental conditions.
However, processing ASA requires care: a closed printing environment, a heated print bed, and constant temperatures are necessary to minimize warping. The filament should also be pre-dried. During the printing process, odors can also occur, which is why good ventilation is recommended.
Food safety is also only given with certain brands of ASA, which is why the origin of the material should be carefully checked. Chemically, it shows good resistance to alcohol, oils, and acids and bases, but is sensitive to acetone.
With its combination of weather resistance and stability, ASA is the perfect choice for demanding outdoor and technical projects.
TPU – Flexible and Wear-Resistant Material for Special Applications
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is an extremely flexible material characterized by its high flexibility and wear resistance. Depending on the type, it has different Shore hardnesses, which determine its softness or strength.
Typical applications include hydraulics and pneumatics, where its flexibility and durability are particularly appreciated. TPU is also weather and UV resistant, making it ideal for outdoor use. The material is moderately heat resistant and is priced in the lower mid-range.
However, processing TPU poses certain challenges. It tends to have poorer layer adhesion and easily absorbs moisture, which can affect print quality. Therefore, the material should be pre-dried. Careful storage and print preparation are essential.
Food safety is only guaranteed with certain variants, which is why the selection of the material should be carefully checked. Chemically, TPU offers good resistance to oils and weak bases, but is less resistant to strong acids and acetone. Resistance to alcohol is moderate.
With its flexibility and wear resistance, TPU is the first choice for applications where material movement and durability are crucial.