3D Filkemp PLA is a filament based on PLA (polylactic acid) – a widely used biopolymer for 3D printing, aimed at everyday models, prototypes, and functional details, where a predictable workflow and clean surface are sought. PLA is a suitable choice when the goal is a quick transition from CAD model to finished detail, with minimal adjustments to the machine and consistent results across different prints.
Key advantages
- Material: PLA (polylactic acid) – biopolymer; the manufacturer specifies raw materials from renewable sources.
- Roll: 1 kg.
- Diameter: 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm (chosen according to your machine).
- Recommended settings (according to the manufacturer): 200–215 °C nozzle, 0–50% fan, 40–60 °C bed.
Who it is for and what problem it solves
This PLA is a practical choice for teams and users who want to maintain a stable work rhythm: prototyping, visual models, enclosures, and auxiliary devices. In everyday practice, "good" PLA is recognized by its ability to keep the process simple: you set the right temperatures and cooling, check the first layer, and move on to the next detail. The manufacturer describes the material as easy to print and suitable for daily use, with good adhesion between layers and a focus on consistent feeding.
If you manage several machines or different operators work on the same task, PLA is usually the fastest way to a repeatable result. In this context, 3D Filkemp PLA aims to provide a "calm" working base on which to optimize the detail (orientation, supports, density) instead of constantly compensating for the material's behavior.
Material and quality of the result in 3D printing
PLA (polylactic acid) is a material valued for its combination of easy control, good detail, and pleasant surface. With the right settings, you can achieve edges and inscriptions with good readability, as well as a uniform outer layer without unnecessary defects. The manufacturer emphasizes strength and toughness, as well as strong adhesion between layers – characteristics that are important when the detail is not just visual but needs to be assembled, drilled, or function as a functional part.
From a process perspective, the greatest value of PLA is that it allows you to focus on the geometry and print parameters. For models with very fine elements, this means more predictable shape reproduction; for functional details – more stable dimensions in repeatable prints when the first layer and cooling are set consistently.
Recommended settings and workflow
According to the manufacturer, the recommended settings for 3D Filkemp PLA are:
- Nozzle temperature: 200–215 °C
- Fan (cooling): 0–50%
- Bed: 40–60 °C
Practical workflow (step by step):
- Check the diameter (1.75 mm or 2.85 mm) and set it correctly in the software/profile to avoid discrepancies in flow rate.
- Start with basic settings in the range of 200–215 °C and moderate cooling (0–50%).
- Focus on the first layer: clean bed, proper leveling, and adequate bed temperature (within 40–60 °C depending on the machine and surface).
- Tuning according to geometry: more cooling for detailed overhangs; less cooling when better interlayer adhesion is needed.
Compatibility and ecosystem
3D Filkemp PLA is available in two standard diameters – 1.75 mm and 2.85 mm. This is the key criterion for compatibility: the material must match the diameter for which your machine's extruder/feeder mechanism is designed. From there, managing the parameters is in the material profile in the slicing software – temperatures, cooling, speeds, etc.
As part of the ecosystem around the material, plan for consumables/maintenance: clean surface of the bed, stable feeding, as well as a consistent approach to storage.
Professional scenarios (4–6) with real practical benefits
- Rapid prototyping of housings and assemblies: PLA is convenient for iterations – adjustments to dimensions and openings are validated quickly, without complex environmental requirements.
- Visual models and prototypes: good surface quality and the ability to achieve clean edges help with presentation details, architectural models, and product concepts.
- Templates, guides, and jigs: for light loads and assembly operations, the material can reduce the need for manual finishing when the geometry is set up correctly.
- Educational and laboratory environments: a clear workflow and relatively easy parameter management facilitate training and standardization of results among different users.
- Series of identical details: when the goal is repeatability, the key is a consistent profile and control of the first layer; PLA is often a base material for such tasks.
Limitations and best practices
The most common issues with PLA in real-world use are related more to settings and environment than to the material: poor first layer, dirty surface, uneven cooling, or an unsuitable combination of temperature and fan for the specific detail.
- First layer: if you see lifting or edge curling, start with leveling/nozzle height and bed cleanliness, then adjust the bed temperature within the recommended range.
- Stringing: often improved with adjustments in retraction and temperature (within 200–215 °C), as well as better organization of “travels” in the profile.
- Small details and overhangs: use more stable cooling (within 0–50% according to recommendations) and optimize speeds according to the machine's capabilities.
- Storage: regardless of the material, good practice is to keep the spools protected from dust and moisture to maintain consistent feeding and stable processing.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Material | PLA (polylactic acid) |
| Diameter | 1.75 mm / 2.85 mm |
| Weight of the spool | 1 kg |
| Recommended nozzle temperature | 200–215 °C |
| Recommended bed temperature | 40–60 °C |
| Recommended cooling (fan) | 0–50 % |
| Available colors (according to the manufacturer) | Black, Dark Blue, Green, Brown, Light Green, Light Grey, Natural, Neon Orange, Squirrel Grey, White |