There are many components in the 3D printer which help it function smoothly. One such component is the PLA 3D Printing Filament. It is the most popular filament for the 3D printers. There are many reasons which make it popular, however, the most common is that it is an easy material to work and print with. Apart from that, it is also known for good results and the option of a wide range of variables. Most filaments in the market do not have this flexibility. The finish quality of the end product is great. Some of the Best PLA filament is available in the market and is used by many people.
What is the PLA material made up of?
This is a very common question which crosses the mind of every person who has been using 3D printing. The PLA stands for Poly Lactic Acid and it is a thermoplastic polymer. It is made up of natural products such as corn and sugarcane. It is also known as bioplastic. Thermoplastics are usually derived from non-renewable resources like petroleum. Since it made up of natural products it is biodegradable and not a challenge to the environment. When the product is discarded it will eventually break down into its constituent parts in a few years.
Where can it be used?
Since its inception, it has been established that PLA is the best filament to start work with. It is versatile and easy to use. However, due to its demand, there is much poor quality PLAs as well. These can leave a bad impression and you may move on to other materials. It is advisable to use high-quality PLA. Work on your projects with the high-quality PLA and you will definitely notice the difference. Work with PLA before you move to other stronger filaments. These filaments are for more advanced prints. You should practice with PLA and move to other filaments when you have the need.
Why use PLA?
Many people have this question as to why they should use PLA. There are many reasons which can prove the point beyond doubt that PLA 3D printer filaments are the best. The PLA filaments are easy to print. A good quality PLA will move nicely on the print material and won’t wrap on it. The detailing and finishing are very neat and do not have any stringing or blobbing. The post-print finishing is quite straightforward and it is easy to cut, drill and sand. Also, the finished product is quite strong and can be pigmented easily. The color selections are better and quite vivid. There is no foul smell emitted while printing and it is biodegradable. Also, the ingredients are non-toxic and all natural. The print temperature is lower when compared to other filaments.
PLA filament food safety
There are many eatables which are made from PLA filament. As you already know, 3D printing is used to make different types of food containers, garbage bags, and even disposable tableware. However, it is not considered safe as a food container since the printing can cause cavities or gaps in the finished product. The food can get stuck in such cavities and turn into a mold which is bad for health. Also, the lower tensile strength makes it more brittle. Keeping the above points in mind one can say that PLA filament 3D printer products are not safe to store food items.
What is the melting point of PLA?
The melting point of PLA is rather low due to which it cannot be used in a high-temperature application. The melting temperature for PLA is 170C and above. The 3D printed PLA products are best to use at room temperature.
Painting on PLA filament
It is easy to paint the PLA filament. You should use acrylic based paints, however, you can use oil and cellulose sprays. For safety concerns, it is better to use kid-friendly paints.
Printing with PLA
There are few points which you need to remember while printing with PLA. They are adhesion, temperature and material storage. We have seen some of the aspects of the 3D printing with PLA. It is also important that you get the temperature correct as it will make sure that the run is as smooth as it can be and the finished product is of high quality.
Conclusion
Now that you know about the PLA filament 3D printing make sure that you use the best quality filament for best experience with 3D printing. You will need some practise before you get all the aspects right.
