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To: 2ndDivisionVet

what s the difference in filament types?


8 posted on 03/16/2017 9:06:16 PM PDT by longtermmemmory (VOTE! http://www.senate.gov and http://www.house.gov)
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To: longtermmemmory
what s the difference in filament types?

Don't know much about the newest materials, mostly PLA, ABS and Nylon.

PLA is more or less biodegradable. Which means you shouldn't use it outside unless you want to watch it fall apart in weather. Easy to work with, good for kids toys and such.

ABS is a tougher plastic, holds up pretty well in or out. And you can "weld" it with acetone, or polish it to a shine with acetone vapors to smooth out blemishes. Tougher to work with, as it tends to easily warp on the build table unless you have a properly heated table, control internal airflow in the printer, and/or use a support mesh.

Nylon is extremely tough and flexible. Won't easily break under stress. But is difficult to work with supporting mesh that would need to be cut away. Alternative is to use two print heads, one for mesh that is not nylon, and simultaneously build. I like nylon because I can dye it any color with common clothing dyes. Costs more than PLA or ABS.

10 posted on 03/16/2017 9:19:50 PM PDT by roadcat
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