PLA filament
What is PLA?
PLA filament, or Polylactide acid, is the leading edge in ecologically sustainable 3D printing materials. Produced from renewable resources such as sugar beet, corn and wheat, offer PLA a superior solution for sustainable 3D printing. It is not only biodegradable, but also acclaimed for its ease of use and flexibility – factors that contribute to its position as the most preferred filament on the market today.
Why PLA?
For both beginners and experienced users, PLA filament is the first choice thanks to its easy handling and low melting temperature. Whether you are making toys, prototypes or works of art, PLA offers a universal solution suitable for most purposes. For an overview, check out our filament guide.
Nozzle
190-210 °C
Building plate
45-70 °C
Cooling fan
100%
Advantages PLA
- Inexpensive
- Degradable
- Wide Color Spectrum
Disadvantages of PLA
- Skirt
- Low Melting Point
- Absorbs Water
Temperature PLA Filament
What determines the strength of a 3D printed object? A crucial element is the temperature settings of the build plate and nozzle. An in-depth analysis is presented here, taken from CNC Kitchens investigation which studies the strength variations measured in MPa. The diagram below shows a clear picture of how exactly these temperatures affect the strength of the PLA material at different printing temperatures.
- 70
- 50
- 30
- 10
- MPa
XY – 60°C Building plate
XY – 25°C Building plate
Z-Axis
PLA filament vs PLA PRO
What is the difference between PLA and PLA Pro, In short, you can say that PLA Pro is an upgraded version of the usual PLA the filament. By adding other materials to PLA, manufacturers achieve with PLA Pro a mixture that offers improved properties. These improvements may include, stronger adhesion between layers and higher heat resistance. This means that objects printed with PLA Pro can potentially be more durable, have better structural integrity and withstand higher temperatures without deforming.
The exact composition of PLA Pro varies between different manufacturers, but the main goal is the same: to improve the performance of standard PLA to broaden its uses and make it more robust for different applications.
Common Problems with PLA Filament
Warping:
- Cause: Poor adhesion to the build plate.
- Solution: Increase the temperature of the build plate, use a build plate with glue or blue masking tape, adjust the height and speed of the first layer in the slicer program.
Stringing (Threading):
- Cause: Excess filament pulled between parts at travel transitions.
- Solution: Adjust the retraction settings (retraction length and speed) to reduce filament leakage.
Under-Extrusion:
- Cause: Too little filament is extruded, resulting in thin layers or gaps.
- Solution: Check that the filament diameter is set correctly in the slicer, increase the amount of flow (often expressed as a percentage), and ensure that the nozzle is not partially blocked.
Layer Separation:
- Cause: The layers in the print do not hold together well.
- Solution: Increase the extrusion temperature slightly for better layer bonding and make sure the cooling fan is not too strong.
FAQ pla filament
How do I store PLA filament to extend its life?
When PLA filament is not in use, it should be stored sealed in an airtight container and placed away from direct sunlight. It is best kept at a humidity between 30-50%
Can PLA prints be used outdoors?
Although PLA is a compostable material, very specific conditions are required for it to break down effectively. Therefore, PLA is suitable for outdoor use. However, it is important to note that PLA can become brittle and possibly crack with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Is PLA Filament Food Safe?
PLA, is a bio-based and biodegradable plastic material that is often considered safer for food contact than many other types of plastic, due to the fact that it is made from renewable resources such as corn starch. But it is important to note that not all PLA filaments are created equal. For PLA to be safe for direct contact with food, it should be certified according to appropriate food safety standards and be completely free of toxic additives. (Depends on the manufacturer)
