3D Printing
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Frequently Asked Questions related to PLA Filament
What are PLA filaments?
PLA filaments are a type of thermoplastic used for 3D printing. They are sold in filament coils. They are created from starch-rich raw materials such as potatoes, cassava or corn, and since they are created from organic materials, they are biodegradable by composting.
What does PLA mean?
The acronym PLA stands for Polylactic Acid or Lactic Acid. A polymer similar to PET, but which comes from organic materials rich in starch. PLA is also biodegradable by composting.
What is better PLA or ABS?
PLA is the filament that is most suited to users of 3D printing, given its ease of use. Depending on the use you want to give to your print, it will be better or worse to use PLA or ABS. As a general rule, because of its ease of printing, quality/price, and biodegradability, PLA is used and recommended more.
How many meters has 1 Kg of PLA?
A 1kg roll of 2.85 mm PLA will be around 110 meters.
What is the best filament for 3D printing?
The best filament for 3D printing depends on what you want to achieve. If you are looking for resistance in the piece, you can use filaments such as ABS, PETG, Carbon Fiber, Polypropylene, Nylon, among others. If you are looking for flexibility, you can use TPE or TPU. If you are looking for medium resistance, easy printing and biodegradability, then PLA is the best option.
What is PLA plastic material?
PLA is a thermoplastic, the acronym PLA comes from Polylactic Acid or Lactic Acid. It is a polymer with properties similar to polyethylene terephthalate (PET, the material of, for example, water bottles). It is a material that is created from starch-rich raw materials such as corn or cassava, and is also biodegradable.
How is PLA made?
PLA is made from vegetable and renewable raw materials that are rich in starch, such as corn, potatoes or cassava. PLA is made by extracting the starch and converting it into dextrose. The process continues with fermentation by microorganisms into lactic acid. To manufacture 1 kg of PLA, approximately 2 kg of corn are needed.
What temperatures does PLA support?
The printing temperatures of PLA are relatively low. You can extrude the material from 190 to 220 ºC. PLA can also be burned at higher temperatures (approximately 250°C). Once printed, PLA has a low thermal resistance. You will notice deformations of the material from 65 ºC.
How long does PLA last?
PLA is a fairly hygroscopic material, which means that it has the ability to absorb moisture in the environment. Its duration will depend on how you preserve it. Once printed, PLA can last for years in very good conditions if you don't subject it to bad weather (such as excessive sun or sudden temperature changes). There are other, more resistant PLAs such as PLA 850 that are better able to withstand the passage of time.