You bought a 3D printer, you want to make a 3D printed shoe, but
you ask yourself what type of materials I
should use to ensure my shoes are durable.
No problem, I will break it down for you.
There are mainly four type of plastics used for home 3D printers
ABS, PLA, and PVA.
ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) plastic
is the same plastic that Legos are created from which means ABS are a bit
strong, resistance to chemicals, heat and impact. ABS is also used to create
luggage, camera bodies and battery cases; most importantly, ABS is affordable.
The Cons of ABS:
It is a petroleum-based non-biodegradable plastic, but it can be
recycled.
Creates mild fumes which may irritate sensitive people
Can deteriorate by prolonged exposure to sunlight
Note: since ABS attracts moisture, ensure that it’s stored in an
airtight container.
PLA (Polylactic acid or polylactide) is
a biodegradable thermoplastic which is created from renewable resources, such
as cornstarch, sugar cane, tapioca roots or potato starch. These ingredients
gives PLA a candy smell when it melts and makes it the most environmentally
friendly solution for 3D printing.
PLA is used in surgical implants, food packaging, bags, disposable
tableware, upholstery, disposable garments, hygiene products and even diapers.
PLA is therefore considered as pretty safe and these characteristics has made
it popular in the printing community.
Cons for PLA:
PLA is tough, but becomes brittle once it cools down.
PLA is slow to cool
It cannot stand too much heat and becomes soft around 50°C.
As with ABS, PLA does also attract water molecules from the air
and it will become (more) brittle and sometimes difficult to print with, ensure
that it is stored properly in an airtight container.
PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) is a special plastic
that is water-soluble. It’s mainly used as paper adhesive, in packaging film,
in feminine hygiene and adult incontinence products, or in children’s play
putty or slime.
Cons for PVA:
The finished object can be put into water until the PVA has
completely dissolved…not what you want
Ambient air moisture will deteriorate the filament very quickly.
High priced
Once you have chosen the appropriate material, you should check
whether the filament diameter is compatible with your printer before
ordering. The two standard diameter sizes for filament are 1.75mm or 3mm.
Hopefully this post was helpful in educating you on the different
plastics used in a 3D printer. Depending on your project ABS, PLA, and PVA are
the main plastic materials you will encounter during your 3D printing creation
process.
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