Several materials can be used during 3D printing. Choosing the right 3D printing material to use is therefore a daunting task for printing business owners. During the selection of 3D printing materials several things come into consideration. The thing that come into play consist of the price as well as the ability of the material to withstand water. Below are tips to selecting the ideal 3D printing materials.
When buying 3D printing material it is essential to reflect on water resistance. Buying water resistant printing materials will go a long way in ensuring that you get value for your money. When it comes to purchasing water resistant 3D printing materials, PETG filaments, and polypropylene are the 3D printing materials to go for. Apart from being water resistant, PETG filaments are also known for their smooth surface finish. Polypropylene printing materials on the other hand, are the best choice for low strength applications. This is because it is resistant to fatigue, it is semi flexible, and has lightweight features.
Other, materials that can be used during 3D printing include the composite printing materials. Composite 3D printing materials are a great choice if you want to add strength to your prints. Some of the composite materials that are used in 3D printing include carbon fiber filled materials; wood filled materials as well as metal filled materials. The carbon fiber filled materials are made from short fibers. Thereafter, the short fibers are mixed with the PLA or ABS base. Strength and stiffness is provided by carbon fiber filaments. Fine metal powder on the other hand, make up metal filled materials. Extra weight and an outstanding finishing can be derived from metal filled filaments. Strong and durable 3D printing materials can be derived from mixing fine wood powder with a PLA base.
Metal filled printing materials, wood filled printing materials, PLA , and the flexible 3D printing materials are the go-to materials if you are looking for printing materials that do not need a heated bed. Since flexible materials also known as TPE and TPU bend and stretch easily, a heated bed is not a requirement. Whereas, PLA is easier to use and it has the right dimensions. It is the ideal 3D printing material to settle for if you want a cost-effective printing material. A heating bed is not required for metal filled as well as wood filled printing materials since they are formed from mixing fine powder with the base material.
Lastly, if you want to settle for the best 3D printing materials, it is vital to get recommendations from family members as well as your friends. You will get a clear picture of the ideality of the 3D printing materials you are about to buy by reading reviews and asking for recommendations.