3D printing is becoming increasingly accessible and popular, offering unique opportunities and innovations in material development and CAD design for prototyping. PLA filament is among the most widely used materials in this process. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to PLA filament – what it is, why it is preferred, how to use it effectively, and how to troubleshoot common issues. Even if you are a complete beginner in 3D printing, the following lines will help you navigate confidently in the world of PLA.
If you are still considering the purchase of a 3D printer, you can contact us for a free consultation or send us your detail and we will print it in our workshop for 3D printing.
What is PLA filament?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a thermoplastic material made from renewable resources such as corn starch and sugarcane. This makes it a biodegradable and environmentally sustainable choice for 3D printing. PLA is known for its ease of use, making it ideal for beginners.
PLA is used in various 3D printed products that meet the needs of different industries.
Main Characteristics of PLA Filament
PLA filament is one of the most commonly used materials for 3D printing. It is biodegradable and has a low melting temperature, making it ideal for producing highly precise details and complex shapes. Additionally, PLA filament is known for its low cost and quick production, which makes it popular among both beginners and professionals in the field of 3D printing. Thanks to these characteristics, PLA is a preferred material for various projects, from prototypes to decorative models.
Advantages of PLA filament
- Easy to work with – PLA has a low melting point (190–220°C), which means it does not require complex settings or expensive equipment.
- Eco-friendly – Since it is biodegradable, the use of PLA is less harmful to the environment.
- Minimal Deformations – PLA cools quickly and evenly, which reduces the risk of warping of the details.
- Wide color range – Available in a variety of colors and special effects, such as metallic, transparent, or glow-in-the-dark.
- Lack of unpleasant odor – Unlike ABS, PLA does not emit strong odors during printing. PLA filament is a solution for various challenges in 3D printing.
Technical Specifications of PLA Filament
Filament diameter
The diameter of PLA filament is usually 1.75 mm, which is a standard size for most 3D printers. This diameter allows for accurate and fast production of parts with high precision. Using a standard diameter also makes it easier to find compatible filaments and settings for your printer.
Size of the filament spool
The standard size of PLA filament is usually 1000 g, which is standard for most filaments. Larger spools are also sold, such as 2 - 2.5 kg and more, but they are usually not compatible with the beds of mass printers and require modifications to allow for normal filament feeding. The 1 kg spool allows for the production of multiple parts without the need for frequent filament changes. This is especially useful for longer projects where the continuity of 3D printing is essential, unlike 0.5 kg filaments.
What is PLA used for?
PLA is suitable for:
- Prototypes and decorative models – Thanks to the easy processing and detail.
- Toys and accessories – Its non-toxicity makes it safe for home use.
- Educational projects – Often used in schools and universities for demonstrations and modeling.
How to set up your 3D printer for PLA
The correct settings are the key to successful printing. Here are a few tips:
Basic parameters
- Temperature at the nozzle: 190–220°C. The exact value depends on the brand of the filament.
- Bed temperature: 50–60°C (or without heated bed with good adhesive layer).
- Print speed: 50–60 mm/s for a balance between detail and time.
- Fan: Activate it to 100% after the first layers are applied.
Preparation on the bed
PLA requires good adhesion to the printer bed. Use:
- Blue adhesive tape or glue for facilitating adhesion.
- Clean the bed with isopropyl alcohol before each printing.
- The easiest way for good adhesion without additional adhesives is the use of a textured flexible PEI sheet.
Does PLA need to be dried?
Yes, PLA filament is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to:
- Bubbles in the print.
- Reduced strength of the model.
- Uneven extrusion.
Solution: Store PLA in an airtight container with desiccants. If you notice moisture, dry the filament in an oven at 50–60°C for 4–6 hours or use a special filament dryer.
Common problems and their solutions
1. Poor adhesion of the first layer
- Reason: Incorrectly leveled bed or insufficient adhesive layer.
- Solution: Level the bed and use glue or tape for better adhesion.
2. Ends (Stringing)
- Reason: Incorrect retraction settings.
- Solution: Increase the distance and speed of retraction in the software settings.
3. Deformation (Warping)
- Reason: Rapid cooling or insufficiently heated bed.
- Solution: Maintain the bed temperature around 60°C and use an enclosed printer to keep the temperature (Bambu Lab recommends a slightly open door and glass).
4. Clogging of the nozzle
- Reason: Residues from previous filament or low-quality PLA.
- Solution: Clean the nozzle regularly and use only quality materials.
Our 3D printing service
If you don't have your own 3D printer, don't worry! We offer a professional 3D printing service:
- Send us your 3D file, choose a material and color, and we will take care of everything else.
- "Our experienced specialists and high-tech 3D printing farm guarantee a perfect result."
Do you have a printer? We offer premium PLA filaments, tested in our farm, that will ensure impeccable quality and reliability.
Conclusion
PLA filament is a great choice for anyone looking to enter the world of 3D printing. It is easy to work with, environmentally friendly, and offers high detail quality. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, the right settings and quality materials will help you achieve excellent results.
"Contact us to start your 3D adventure today – with our 3D printing service or with premium PLA filaments!"
