PLA filament material is the most popular 3D printer filament type because it’s easy to use. Unlike other filament types, PLA prints as low temperatures. This makes the material less likely to warp when cooling, so there’s no need to use a heating bed. PLA thermoplastic filament is also an eco-friendly option because it’s biodegradable. Renewable resources, such as corn starch and sugar cane, are main components in PLA material, which makes it good for the environment. PLA filament is also generally odorless, though you may notice sweet candy-like fumes when printing.
A downside to this material is that it’s brittle, and the PLA filament heat resistance is not ideal. It may deform when temperatures exceed 60°C. When printing items that will encounter high heat, or that may be dropped or bent, you should opt for a different material. When these conditions don’t apply, PLA filament material is a good choice. At Terrafilum, we even offer food-safe PLA to make storage containers. Other popular uses for this filament include prototype parts and models. We sell both 2.85mm and 1.75mm PLA filament.
Material Features
PLA
Rigid
Industrial grade bio-plastic – base industrial for rapid proto-typing and quick part production; Excellent flow and printing characteristics. Great for long prints and has superior life to common PLA products.
PLA Professional
Rigid
Tough Grade Industrial bio-plastic specifically designed to improve performance.The material boasts improved melt flow which helps layer adhesion performance with the added benefit of more impact resistance. The material is industrial grade with excellent detail and precision performance when processing; professional series PLA for higher impact and heat-resistance. Ideal when parts need to be precise and functional.
PLA Food Safe
Rigid
Industrial grade bio-plastic – industrial grade providing more precise detail and is food contact approved; Excellent flow and printing characteristics. Great for long prints and has excellent printing performance.
Easy to Print With
Non-Toxic and Biodegradable
Low Printing Temperature
No Oder When Extruded
Perfect for Rapid Prototyping
Filament Properties
Strength
Medium
Flexibility
Low
Durability
Medium
Difficulty to Use
Low
Print Temperature
180°C – 230°C
Print Bed Temperature
20°C – 60°C (but not needed)
Shrinkage / Warping
Minimal
Soluble
No
The Perfect Material for Your Project
Let us know if you are interested in a custom material blend or color. We will work with you to create the perfect material for your project!