What To Look For in Flexible Filaments

A flexible filament, also called flexible 3D printing material, is a category of thermoplastic polymers specifically formulated to achieve elasticity and resilience. Unlike traditional rigid filaments, their flexible counterparts can bend, twist, and deform without breaking. They can also produce objects with dynamic shapes and intricate geometries.

However, not all filaments possess equal flexibility and capacity. With a vast selection of options, it is crucial to grasp the key factors to consider when choosing the optimal material for particular applications. Here are some of the essential considerations to look for in a flexible filament:

1. Shore Hardness

Shore hardness measures the material’s resistance to indentation or penetration by a rigid object. It is a standard method for assessing the hardness of various materials, including polymers, elastomers, and rubbers. Higher Shore hardness values indicate greater hardness and less flexibility, while lower values entail softer and more flexible materials.

For instance, a filament with a high abrasion resistance requires a material with a greater Shore hardness. In contrast, a lower Shore hardness may be more appropriate if flexibility or impact resistance is essential. It ultimately depends on the application’s specific requirements and constraints.

2. Elongation at Break

Elongation at break is a mechanical property that measures the ability of a material to stretch or deform under tension before it breaks. This property is particularly important for materials that will experience stretching or elongation in their intended applications. For example, materials with high elongation at break values indicate excellent ductility and the capacity to undergo significant elongation.

3. Tensile Strength

Tensile strength is a mechanical property measuring the maximum tensile or pulling force a material can withstand before it breaks. High tensile strength indicates that a material can withstand greater forces without breaking.

Remember that composition, microstructure, manufacturing process, and environmental conditions affect tensile strength. Different materials also have distinct inherent tensile strength capacities, and the desired value should be determined based on engineering specifications and safety factors.

4. Printability

Printability is the suitability and ease of 3D printing a specific material on a particular 3D printer. It encompasses several factors influencing a material’s successful and reliable printing, including filament properties and printer settings. It also includes the interaction between the material and the printer’s hardware.

5. Diameter and Consistency

The filament diameter is the thickness of the filament strand used during the printing process. The typical filament diameters for consumer-grade printers are 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm, while industrial printers may utilize larger filaments. Therefore, selecting a flexible filament with a diameter that aligns with the correct specifications of the printer is essential to ensure optimal performance.

Consistency refers to the uniformity of the filament diameter along its entire length. When the filament exhibits consistent diameter, it facilitates a smooth and uniform extrusion process, resulting in even material deposition. In contrast, inconsistent filament diameter can cause under-extrusion, over-extrusion, or nozzle clogging.

6. Cost

Different types of flexible filaments vary in cost. For example, basic thermoplastic elastomers such as polyurethane are typically more affordable than specialty or high-performance flexible materials like thermoplastic copolyester. Filaments are also normally sold in different spool sizes and quantities. Larger spools often offer a better price per unit than smaller spools.

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What To Look For in PLA Filament Options

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Polylactic acid (PLA) is a popular 3D printing filament made from renewable resources, such as cassava, cornstarch, and sugarcane. It has a biodegradable composition and low melting point, making it ideal for 3D printing beginners. It also comes in a range of colors, finishes, and diameters, providing a wide variety of options for creative projects.

PLA is a widely available filament that can generate quality prints with minimal warping and shrinkage. It is also odorless and does not require a heated bed, which is why it is popular among 3D printing enthusiasts. However, not all filaments are created equal. The following are some of the most important considerations to look for in PLA filaments to ensure optimal performance and print quality:

1. Diameter

The filament’s diameter can affect the thickness of each layer of the print, and inconsistencies in diameter can cause uneven layers or gaps. PLA filaments typically come in two standard sizes: 1.75 mm and 3 mm. Choosing the incorrect diameter can lead to several issues, including under-extrusion or over-extrusion.

Under-extrusion happens when the diameter is too large for the printer’s extruder, causing the filament to become trapped and inhibit proper extrusion. On the other hand, over-extrusion occurs when the diameter is too small for the extruder. This causes the printer to extrude too much material, resulting in a stringy and messy print.

It is also crucial to remember that the diameter of PLA filament can vary across manufacturers and even between batches of the same brand. As a result, it is critical to check the diameter frequently. Adjusting the 3D printer’s settings is also recommended to ensure consistent and accurate prints.

2. Color

The filament’s color can affect the overall appearance and aesthetic of the 3D print. For example, a 3D model with a natural or translucent filament will look different from a bold, bright color. However, it is essential to consider that the color can affect the printing process and the final quality of the print.

Filaments with darker colors, such as black, need higher printing temperatures. If they are not printed at the right temperature, it could lead to clogging or under-extrusion. Meanwhile, lighter-colored filaments need low temperatures and can be more tolerant if printed at slightly lower temperatures. In addition, the quality of the pigment utilized in the coloration process can impact its quality.

3. Compatibility

Not all filaments are suitable for every printer, and using an incompatible component can cause clogging under-extrusion or even damage to the machine. Compatibility is often determined by the diameter of the PLA filament and the printer’s extruder system. For example, some printers have different extruder systems, such as a direct-drive or Bowden extruder.

One way to ensure compatibility is to choose PLA filament from the same manufacturer as the printer. This can help ensure it is designed to work well with the printer’s system and will minimize the risk of printing issues.

4. Price

PLA filament is generally more affordable than other 3D printing filaments such as ABS or PETG. This makes it an attractive choice for those on a budget or those experimenting with 3D printing. However, it is important to remember that the price can vary depending on its quality, color, and manufacturer. For instance, higher-quality filaments — such as those with tighter tolerances — can be more expensive but produce better results.

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At Terrafilum, we develop and provide top-of-the-line, eco-friendly 3D printing filament solutions to customers in diverse industries! From custom filaments for large-scale industrial projects to meeting strict engineering design criteria, we’ve got you covered. Our commitment to exceeding all our customers’ printing needs has been achieved, and we manufacture our products right here in the USA.

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What To Look For in ASA Filaments

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ASA filaments are thermoplastic polymers that blend the properties of acrylonitrile, styrene, and acrylate. They have a glossy finish and come in a variety of colors. Moreover, they’re similar to ABS filaments but offer superior weather and UV resistance. They also have a high melting point, making them suitable for printing high-temperature parts.

Choosing the right ASA filament for your 3D printing project can be complex. With an overwhelming number of options available, it can take time to determine which filament best fits your needs. To help you, here are the essential factors to consider:

1. Print Temperature Range

ASA filaments have a higher printing temperature range than PLA and ABS filaments, typically 230–260 °C. Therefore, choosing a filament with a suitable temperature range for your 3D printer is essential to ensure that your prints are successful. Additionally, these filaments are temperature-sensitive, meaning they may require a heated bed or enclosure to print correctly.

2. Print Bed Adhesion

These filaments tend to shrink and warp, resulting in the print detaching from the bed or distorting during the process. To prevent this, you can use adhesive sprays or specialized bed sheets to improve adhesion. Maintaining a level and clean print bed is crucial to ensure optimal adhesion before initiating printing.

3. Diameter and Tolerance

Choosing a filament with an appropriate diameter for your 3D printer’s extruder is essential. If the filament diameter is too small, it may cause under-extrusion and gaps in your print. Conversely, if the diameter is too large, it can cause over-extrusion and lead to clogs in your extruder.

Furthermore, the tolerance of the filament refers to the deviation from the stated diameter. Therefore, choosing a filament with a low tolerance can ensure consistency in your prints.

4. Filament Color and Finish

The color and finish of your ASA filament can impact the final aesthetic appeal of your 3D prints. While color may not be a significant concern for functional parts, it can be essential for decorative items. In addition, certain applications may require specific finishes, such as matte or glossy.

5. Cost

When comparing the cost of ASA filament to other filaments, it’s important to consider the price per unit of volume rather than just the overall cost of the spool. Some brands may offer larger spools at a higher cost, but it may not necessarily be more cost-effective than a smaller spool from a different brand.

It’s also important to consider the overall cost of 3D printing, including the cost of the 3D printer, maintenance, electricity, and other associated costs. ASA filament may cost more, but it’s worth considering if you need its specific properties for your project. In the long run, it could save you time and money.

Elevate Your 3D Printing Experience With Terrafilum’s Eco-Friendly Filaments

At Terrafilum, we are dedicated to providing high-quality and eco-friendly 3D printing filament solutions for customers across diverse industries. From custom filaments for large-scale industrial projects to meeting strict engineering design criteria, we have the expertise and experience to meet your specific printing needs.

Our commitment to exceeding customer expectations is reflected in the fact that we manufacture our products right here in the USA. This allows us to maintain strict quality control measures and ensure our customers receive the highest-quality products. Additionally, we offer competitive pricing and excellent customer service to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience for all our customers.

Contact us to learn more about our products and services, or request a quote to get started on your next project with us!