Material Specifications
Comprehensive guide to our available 3D printing materials, their properties, and best applications for your projects.
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
Most popular material for beginners and general use
Properties
Characteristics
- Easy to print with
- Biodegradable and eco-friendly
- Wide range of colors available
- Good dimensional accuracy
- Low warping
Best Applications
- Prototypes and models
- Decorative items
- Educational projects
- Toys and figurines
Limitations
- Not suitable for high-temperature applications
- Can be brittle under stress
- Limited chemical resistance
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
Strong and durable material for functional parts
Properties
Characteristics
- High impact resistance
- Good chemical resistance
- Can be sanded and painted
- Suitable for mechanical parts
- Recyclable
Best Applications
- Functional prototypes
- Automotive parts
- Electronic enclosures
- Tools and fixtures
Limitations
- Requires heated bed
- Can warp during printing
- Produces fumes during printing
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
Combines ease of printing with good mechanical properties
Properties
Characteristics
- Chemical resistance
- Food safe (when properly processed)
- Transparent options available
- Good layer adhesion
- Low shrinkage
Best Applications
- Food containers
- Medical devices
- Outdoor applications
- Transparent parts
Limitations
- Can be stringy during printing
- Requires careful temperature control
- More expensive than PLA
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
Flexible material for rubber-like parts
Properties
Characteristics
- Rubber-like flexibility
- Good abrasion resistance
- Chemical resistance
- Shock absorption
- Wear resistance
Best Applications
- Phone cases
- Gaskets and seals
- Wearable items
- Shock absorbers
Limitations
- Requires slow printing speeds
- Can be difficult to print
- Limited color options
- Higher cost
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate)
UV-resistant material for outdoor applications
Properties
Characteristics
- Excellent UV resistance
- High impact strength
- Chemical resistance
- Weather resistance
- Good dimensional stability
Best Applications
- Outdoor signage
- Automotive parts
- Garden equipment
- Marine applications
Limitations
- Requires heated bed and enclosure
- Can be difficult to print
- Higher cost
- Limited color options
Post-Processing Options
Sanding
Smooth surfaces and remove layer lines
PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA
- • Sandpaper (120-400 grit)
- • Sanding blocks
- • Wet sanding for fine finish
Painting
Add color and protective coating
PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA
- • Primer
- • Acrylic paints
- • Clear coat
- • Airbrush for smooth finish
Vapor Smoothing
Chemical smoothing for glossy finish
ABS, ASA
- • Acetone vapor
- • Vapor chamber
- • Safety equipment
Heat Treatment
Improve strength and dimensional stability
PLA, PETG
- • Oven or heat gun
- • Temperature control
- • Support structures
Material Selection Guide
For Beginners
Start with PLA for easy printing and good results
For Functional Parts
Use ABS or PETG for strength and durability
For Outdoor Use
Choose ASA for UV resistance and weather durability
Need Help Choosing a Material?
Our technical team can help you select the best material for your specific application.