Having a 3D printer in your possession opens you to a world of opportunities. However, one requirement unites all of these needs: 3D printer filament.

Both expensive prostheses and recreational products like miniature board games are subject to this restriction. The standard 3D printer filaments, such as PLA and PETG, as well as the more durable engineering-grade materials and the glitzy stuff that allows for creativity, are covered below (frequently referred to as exotics).

The varieties are split into three sections, and they are:

The basics are:

3d printing PLA filament

Polylactic acid (PLA) is king in 3D printing for the general public. Despite frequently being compared to ABS, which is undoubtedly the next in line for the crown, PLA is by far the most widely used 3D printer filament, and for a good reason.

To some extent, PLA is more eco-friendly than many 3D printer materials. Under specific, commercially feasible conditions, it will biodegrade. We are hesitant to promote the material as being "green" in any meaningful way because you can't compost it at home, but you might make the case that it is better than some.

3d printing ABS filament

In general 3D printing, PLA is more popular than Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). ABS is significantly more challenging to print because it is prone to warping without a hot print bed and bed glue, but in terms of material qualities, it is slightly superior to PLA.

ABS is frequently used in injection molding and is a component of numerous produced goods for the home and consumer, including bicycle helmets and LEGO bricks.

However, 3D printer fans should be aware of the filament's high printing temperature, propensity to warp while cooling, and powerful, potentially toxic fumes. ABS products tout exceptional durability and the ability to tolerate high temperatures. Make sure to print in a well-ventilated area with a heated bed (or with an enclosure).

PETG(PET,PETT)

PET, often known as polyethylene terephthalate, is one of the most widely used plastics worldwide. It is most commonly utilized in water bottles, but it is also in garment fibers and food packaging. In addition, PETG, a form of PET, is a more often used 3D printer filament than "raw" PET, which is used less frequently.

Due to its flexibility, strength, resilience to high temperatures, and impact resistance, PETG is a solid all-arounder but stands apart from many other types of 3D printer filament. This makes it the perfect 3D printer filament for functional products like mechanical parts, printer parts, and protective components that may undergo prolonged or abrupt stress.

Exotic/Recreational Wood filled

Are you interested in printing wood-like objects? You can! It's not wood because that wouldn't make for excellent 3D printer filament. Typically, wood 3D printer filament is PLA mixed with wood fibers. There are trade-offs with utilizing wood, like another 3D printer filament. In this case, flexibility and strength are sacrificed in favor of the tactile appeal.

Metal filled

Contrary to the wood-filled filament, metal-filled 3D printer filament isn't formed of metal. Instead, it's a combination of PLA or ABS and metal powder. However, the outcomes still feel and look like metal. Currently, available metal 3D printer filaments include stainless steel, bronze, brass, copper, and aluminum. If there is a specific aspect you are trying for, don't be afraid to weather, tarnish, or polish your metal items after printing; a little post-processing may go a long way.

Professional Carbon fiber

Carbon fiber reinforcement makes 3D printer filament, such as PLA and ABS, but most frequently nylon, incredibly stiff and unyielding while still weighing comparatively little. These materials excel in structural applications that must endure various end-use scenarios. Carbon fiber is an excellent choice for mechanical components due to its structural strength and low density. Are you looking to swap out a piece for your model car or aircraft? Try out this 3D printer filament.

Glass fiber

Similar to the carbon fiber-filled filament described above, glass fiber-filled filament is often made of nylon that has been reinforced with chopped glass fibers. Glass fiber-reinforced materials have excellent tensile strength, which enables them to endure significant quantities of energy while keeping shape and structural integrity, as well as good impact and temperature resistance.

This tough fiber is ideal for various mechanical parts that must be very rigid and structurally strong. Glass fiber filament is also used with attention to heat and scratch resistance.