A Detailed Comparison of 3D Printing Filaments: Features, Applications, and Prices (with Recommendations for Beginners, Intermediate, and Experts)

3D printing has significantly impacted various industries, from manufacturing and prototyping to design. The range of filaments available for 3D printing plays a crucial role in this revolution. In this guide, we will explore the most popular 3D printing filaments, including PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, TPE, Nylon, PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC. We will compare their popularity, price range, printability, aesthetic usability, field of usability, thermal resistance, and food contact suitability. We will also discuss how some materials can be reinforced or enhanced using composite elements and chemical engineering.

Popularity

PLA is the most popular filament due to its affordability, ease of use, and versatility. PETG has gained popularity as a more durable alternative to PLA, while ABS, once a popular choice, has become less favored due to its printing difficulties and warping issues. TPU, TPE, and Nylon are popular for their flexibility, strength, and durability. Less common filaments like PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC cater to specific niche markets or industries.

Price range

PLA is generally the most affordable filament, with prices ranging from €15 to €30 per kg. PETG and ABS prices are slightly higher, at around €20 to €40 per kg. TPU, TPE, and Nylon can cost between €30 and €60 per kg, while specialized filaments like PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC can range from €40 to over €100 per kg. Prices may fluctuate based on additives, such as carbon fiber, glass fiber, or Kevlar, which enhance a filament's properties.

Printability

PLA is the easiest filament to print with due to its low melting temperature and minimal warping. PETG is also relatively easy to print but requires higher temperatures and better bed adhesion. ABS is known for its printability challenges, such as warping and a need for a heated chamber. TPU and TPE can be challenging to print due to their flexibility, while Nylon, PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC often require specialized hardware, advanced settings, and optimal environmental conditions for successful printing.

Aesthetic Usability and Post-Processing Capabilities

PLA and ABS offer a wide range of color options and can be easily sanded and post-processed for a smooth finish. PETG provides a glossy surface, while TPU and TPE produce flexible parts with a matte finish. Nylon, PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC are often used for functional rather than aesthetic purposes. Notably, PVB can be smoothed using alcohol fumes, resulting in a polished surface.

Field of usability

PLA is ideal for prototypes, decorative items, and low-stress applications. PETG offers greater durability and chemical resistance, making it suitable for mechanical parts and outdoor use. ABS is used less frequently but still finds application in the automotive and consumer goods industries. TPU and TPE excel in applications requiring flexibility, such as gaskets or protective cases. Nylon is known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for gears, bearings, and other high-stress parts. PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC cater to specific industries, such as electronics, automotive, or aerospace, due to their unique properties and performance characteristics.

Thermal resistance

ABS, ASA, and PC offer the highest thermal resistance among the filaments, making them suitable for high-temperature applications. PLA, PETG, TPU, TPE, and Nylon provide moderate thermal resistance, while PVB, ESD, and PP have lower thermal resistance values. The specific thermal resistance properties, such as HDT-B, Tg, and Vicat, vary among filaments and should be considered based on the requirements of your project.

Food Contact Suitability

PLA, PETG, and PP are considered food-safe materials when produced with food-grade additives. However, it is essential to note that 3D printed parts may harbor bacteria due to their porous nature, so they are not recommended for direct food contact without proper post-processing and sealing.

Material Enhancements

Thanks to chemical engineering, thermal, mechanical, and visual properties of materials can be tweaked and enhanced. For example, filaments can be reinforced with composite elements like carbon fiber, glass fiber, or Kevlar to improve their strength, durability, and rigidity. These enhancements allow for the development of specialized materials tailored to specific applications and industries.

Recommendations for Different 3D printing Skill Levels

Beginners

For those new to 3D printing, it's essential to start with easy-to-print filaments that offer a high success rate and minimal frustration. PLA is the top choice for beginners due to its affordability, ease of use, and versatility. It requires a lower printing temperature and has minimal warping, making it an excellent choice for learning the basics of 3D printing. PETG is another suitable option for beginners, as it offers slightly more durability and chemical resistance without being too challenging to print.

Intermediate

Once you have mastered the basics of 3D printing and feel comfortable with PLA and PETG, you can move on to more advanced materials. TPU and TPE are excellent options for intermediate users looking to explore flexible filaments. While they can be more challenging to print, they provide unique properties and open up new possibilities for functional and aesthetic applications. ABS is another option for intermediate users, as it requires a better understanding of bed adhesion, temperature control, and warping management.

Experts

Expert users who have experience with various filaments and can troubleshoot printing issues are well-equipped to explore more specialized materials. Nylon, PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC offer unique properties tailored to specific industries and applications. These materials often require specialized hardware, advanced settings, and optimal environmental conditions for successful printing. Additionally, experts can experiment with filaments reinforced with composite elements like carbon fiber, glass fiber, or Kevlar and explore materials with enhanced thermal, mechanical, and visual properties due to chemical engineering.

Conclusion

Choosing the right 3D printing filament depends on your skill level, project requirements, and desired properties. Beginners should focus on easy-to-print materials like PLA and PETG, while intermediate users can explore flexible filaments like TPU and TPE or more challenging materials like ABS. Expert users can dive into specialized materials such as Nylon, PVB, ESD, PP, ASA, and PC to leverage their unique properties and performance characteristics. By selecting the appropriate filament for your skill level and project needs, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable 3D printing experience.