Polymer FFF 3D Printing Material Guide

Book Intro:

3D printing technology has revolutionized the manufacturing industry, and Fused Filament
Fabrication (FFF) is one of the most popular 3D printing methods. The FFF process uses a
thermoplastic filament as the printing material, and the filament is melted and extruded
through a heated nozzle to create a 3D object layer by layer.
The choice of filament material is a critical factor in determining the quality, strength, and
functionality of the final printed product. With so many different filament materials available,
it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for a specific project.
This book aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the different types of polymer filaments
used in FFF 3D printing. It will cover the properties, advantages, disadvantages, and
recommended applications for each material, as well as tips for successful printing and post-
processing.
About Us
We're proud to announce that Divide By Zero Technologies, as one of the pioneering
companies to introduce professional, affordable, and international quality standard 3D
printing technology to India's SME sector, has now become the largest industrial 3D printer
manufacturer in the country. This milestone, achieved by delivering over 1100 printers
globally, is a testament to your unwavering trust in us.

Throughout this journey, we've been privileged to collaborate with prestigious automotive
giants, innovative startups, educational institutions, and SMEs across the globe.

Embracing the spirit of the Make in India initiative, we're proud to be the first Indian 3D
printer manufacturer to extend our reach to international markets, exporting machines to
countries like Malaysia, Sweden, and the UAE.

As a token of our appreciation for your constant support, we're delighted to dedicate this
material guide to the entire 3D printing community.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Table of Contents

• Introduction to Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printing

• Material Usability Index (MUI)

• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Filament

• PLA (Polylactic Acid) Filament

• PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) Filament

• Nylon Filament

• TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) Filament

• Polycarbonate (PC) Filament

• PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) Filament

• HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) Filament

• ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) Filament

• PP (Polypropylene) Filament

• PC-ABS (Polycarbonate-Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Filament

• Carbon Fiber Filament

• Metal-Filled Filament

• Wood Filament

• Conclusion and Future Developments

Chapter 1: Introduction to Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D Printing

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), also known as Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), is one of
the most common 3D printing technologies. It involves melting a thermoplastic filament and
extruding it through a nozzle to create a 3D object layer by layer. FFF is a popular choice for
hobbyists, educators, and professionals due to its accessibility, affordability, and ease of use.

The FFF process starts with a 3D model that is sliced into layers using specialized software.
The sliced model is then sent to the 3D printer, which heats the filament to its melting point
and extrudes it through a nozzle. The nozzle moves along the X, Y, and Z axes, depositing the
melted filament in a specific pattern to create the first layer of the object. The process is
repeated layer by layer until the entire object is printed.

FFF 3D printing is capable of producing complex geometries, intricate details, and functional
parts with high accuracy and repeatability. However, the quality and properties of the printed
parts are highly dependent on the choice of filament material.

In the following chapters, we will discuss the different types of polymer filaments used in FFF
3D printing and their properties, advantages, disadvantages, and recommended applications.
We will also provide tips for successful printing and postprocessing to help you achieve the
best results with your FFF 3D printer.
 Material Usability Index

0-5 AVERAGE
PC-ABS Advantages:
6-10 GOOD
1.Heat resistant
PC-ABS 2.High Strength
3.Impact Resistant

9 9 9
7 7 7 7 6 5 5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Control Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts - Big Parts. @100◦C
Part Temperature Resistance : 100°C less than 100mm

0-5 AVERAGE
6-10 GOOD PETG Advantages:
1.Glossy and smooth surface finish
PETG 2.Water Resistant
3.Chemical resistant
4.Mostly odourless while printing
5.Low wall thickness printability upto 0.8mm
9 8 8 9 8 8 9
7 6
5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Control Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 80°C
0-5 AVERAGE
6-10 GOOD Carbon Fibre (PLA based) Advantages:
1.Increased strength and stiffness
Carbon Fibre 2.Very good dimensional stability
3.Lightweight

9 8 9 8 8 9
6 7
5 5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 80°C Page 1 of 3
Copyright © 2019, DBZ. All Rights Reserved.
 0-5 AVERAGE Advantages:
6-10 GOOD ABS 1. Less oozing and stringing gives models smoother finish
ABS 2.Low Cost
3.Good impact and wear resistance
4.Good heat resistant.

9 10 10
8 8 7 8
6 6 6

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 95°C

0-5 AVERAGE Advantages:

6-10 GOOD NYLON PM XX 1.Tough and partially flexible
2.High impact resistance
NYLON PM XX
3.No unpleasant odour while printing
4.Good abrasion resistance
5.Heat Resistant

9 9 8 9 8 9 9
7
5 5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 80°C

0-5 AVERAGE
6-10 GOOD PLA Advantages:
1.Low Cost
PLA 2.Stiff and good strength
3.Good dimensional accuracy
4.Good shelf life
5.Low wall thickness printability upto 0.8mm
10 10 9 10 9
8
5 5 4 5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 80°C
0-5 AVERAGE
6-10 GOOD PC Advantages:
1.Impact resistant
PC 2.High heat resistance
3.Bendable without breaking

9 9 9 8 9 9
5 6 5
4

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
Page 1 of 3 less than 100mm Page 2 of 3
Part Temperature Resistance : 115°C Copyright © 2019, DBZ. All Rights Reserved.
 0-5 AVERAGE Advantages:
6-10 GOOD AFPM Special 1.Very good dimensional Accuracy
AFPM Special 2.Impact Resistant
3.Water Resistant
4.Low wall thickness printability upto 0.8mm

10 10 9 10
8 8 7
5 6
4

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
Part Temperature Resistance : 85°C less than 100mm

0-5 AVERAGE
6-10 GOOD HIPS Advantages:
1.Low cost
HIPS 2.Impact and water resistant
3.Lightweight
4.Dissolvable by d-Limonene

10 9 10
7 8 7 8
6 5 6

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 90°C
0-5 AVERAGE
6-10 GOOD TPU Advantages:
TPU
1.Flexible and soft
2.Excellent vibration dampening
3.Long shelf life
4.Good impact resistance
5. Fatigue Resisatnt
10 10 9
8 8 8 8 8
4 5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
less than 100mm
Part Temperature Resistance : 80°C
0-5 AVERAGE Advantages:
6-10 GOOD Carbon Fibre PA+ 1. Good Dimensional Accuracy
2.Low moisture Absorption
Carbon Fibre PA+
3.Low odour emission while printing.

9 10 9 10
8 7
5 6 6 5

Warpage Control Support Removal Surface Finishing Part Strength Part Flexibility Part Shrinkage Part Shrinkage Cost Heat Resistance After Print Accuracy
Control Control-Small parts Control - Big Parts. @100◦C
Page 2 of 3 less than 100mm Page 3 of 3
Part Temperature Resistance : 120°C Copyright © 2019, DBZ. All Rights Reserved.
Chapter 3: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Filament
ABS is a common filament material used in FFF 3D printing. It is a thermoplastic polymer that
is known for its toughness, impact resistance, and heat resistance. ABS is widely used in
various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods.
Properties:

• High impact resistance Good heat resistance

• Good dimensional stability
• Can be easily sanded, painted, and glued

Advantages:
• Durable and strong
• Resistant to impact and heat
• Can be easily post-processed (sanding, painting, gluing)
• Widely available and affordable

Disadvantages:
• Can emit strong fumes during printing
• Requires a heated bed to prevent warping and cracking
• Not biodegradable

Recommended Applications:
• Automotive parts (dashboard, trim, handles)
• Toys and figurines
• Household items (phone cases, containers)
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a heated bed set at 90-110°C to prevent warping
• Print in a well-ventilated area or use an enclosure to minimize fumes
• Use a nozzle temperature of 230-250°C
• Avoid printing thin and tall structures as they can deform during cooling

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the printed part to remove any imperfections
• Paint the part with acrylic paint or spray paint
• Glue the parts together using ABS cement

In summary, ABS is a popular filament material for FFF 3D printing due to its strength,
durability, and heat resistance. However, it requires a heated bed to prevent warping and
can emit strong fumes during printing. ABS is suitable for a wide range of applications,
including automotive parts, toys, and household items.
Chapter 4: PLA (Polylactic Acid) Filament
PLA is a biodegradable and eco-friendly filament material that has gained popularity in recent
years. It is made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, and tapioca roots.
PLA is a versatile material that is easy to print, making it a favorite among hobbyists and
educators.
Properties:
• Low toxicity and odorless
• Easy to print
• Good strength and stiffness

Advantages:
• Environmentally friendly
• Safe to use and handle
• Easy to print with
• Wide range of colors and finishes

Disadvantages:
• Not suitable for high-temperature applications
• Can be brittle and prone to cracking
• Limited impact resistance

Recommended Applications:
• Toys and figurines
• Household items (planters, vases)
• Packaging materials
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a bed temperature of 50-60°C or use blue painter's tape to improve adhesion
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 190-220°C
• Print in a well-ventilated area to minimize fumes
• Store the filament in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture absorption

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Paint the part with acrylic paint or spray paint
• Use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges

In summary, PLA is an eco-friendly filament material that is easy to print with and suitable for
a wide range of applications. It is safe to handle and has a low toxicity level, making it a
popular choice among hobbyists and educators. However, PLA is not suitable for high-
temperature applications and can be brittle, which limits its use in applications that require
impact resistance.
Chapter 5: PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) Filament
PETG is a filament material that has become increasingly popular in recent years. It is a
thermoplastic polymer that is known for its durability, toughness, and clarity. PETG is widely
used in the food and beverage industry due to its excellent chemical resistance.
Properties:
• High durability and toughness
• Good chemical resistance
• Clear and transparent
• Good dimensional stability

Advantages:
• Durable and strong
• Resistant to chemicals
• Can be easily post-processed (sanding, painting, gluing)
• Food safe

Disadvantages:
• Requires a heated bed to prevent warping and cracking
• Not suitable for high-temperature applications
• Limited color options

Recommended Applications:
• Food and beverage containers
• Prototyping
• Household items (phone cases, containers)
• Cosmetic packaging

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a heated bed set at 70-80°C to prevent warping
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 230-250°C
• Print in a well-ventilated area to minimize fumes

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Paint the part with acrylic paint or spray paint
• Glue the parts together using PETG cement

In summary, PETG is a durable and tough filament material that is suitable for a wide range
of applications, including food and beverage containers, prototyping, and household items.
It has excellent chemical resistance and is food safe, making it a popular choice in the food
and beverage industry. However, PETG requires a heated bed to prevent warping and
cracking and is not suitable for high-temperature applications.
Chapter 6: Nylon Filament
Nylon is a strong and durable filament material that is widely used in the manufacturing
industry. It is a synthetic thermoplastic polymer that has excellent mechanical properties,
making it suitable for applications that require high strength and flexibility.

Properties:

• High strength and flexibility Good abrasion resistance

• Good chemical resistance
• Low friction coefficient

Advantages:

• Suitable for high-stress applications

• Good chemical and abrasion resistance
• Low friction coefficient

Disadvantages:

• Can be difficult to print with

• Requires a heated bed to prevent warping
• Can absorb moisture and degrade over time

Recommended Applications:

• Gears and mechanical parts

• Industrial applications (jigs, fixtures)
• Prototyping
• Sporting goods

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a heated bed set at 70-80°C to prevent warping

• Print at a nozzle temperature of 240-260°C
• Store the filament in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture absorption

Post-Processing:

• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections

• Use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges
• Apply a Nylon-specific glue to bond parts together

In summary, Nylon is a strong and durable filament material that is suitable for high stress
applications such as gears and mechanical parts. It has good chemical and abrasion resistance
and a low friction coefficient, making it a popular choice in the manufacturing industry.
However, Nylon can be difficult to print with and requires a heated bed to prevent warping.
It can also absorb moisture and degrade over time, so it should be stored properly.
Chapter 7: TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) Filament
TPU is a flexible and elastic filament material that is known for its rubber-like properties. It is
a thermoplastic polymer that has excellent impact resistance and can withstand repeated
bending and stretching without breaking. TPU is widely used in applications that require
flexibility and durability.
Properties:
• High flexibility and elasticity Excellent impact resistance
• Good chemical resistance
• Resistant to oils and greases

Advantages:
• Excellent impact resistance
• Resistant to oils and greases
• Suitable for applications that require flexibility

Disadvantages:
• Can be difficult to print with
• Requires a slower print speed and lower temperature
• Limited color options

Recommended Applications:
• Phone cases and accessories
• Footwear
• Seals and gaskets
• Sporting goods

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a slower print speed to prevent stringing and oozing
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 220-240°C
• Use a flexible build surface or apply glue stick to improve adhesion
• Print in a well-ventilated area to minimize fumes

Post-Processing:
• Use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges
• Apply a TPU-specific glue to bond parts together

In summary, TPU is a flexible and elastic filament material that is suitable for applications that
require durability and flexibility. It has excellent impact resistance and is resistant to oils and
greases, making it a popular choice in the manufacturing industry. However, TPU can be
difficult to print with and requires a slower print speed and lower temperature.
Chapter 8: Polycarbonate (PC) Filament
Polycarbonate is a strong and transparent filament material that is widely used in the
manufacturing industry. It is a thermoplastic polymer that has excellent mechanical
properties, making it suitable for applications that require high strength and clarity.
Properties:
• High strength and toughness
• Excellent optical clarity
• Good heat resistance
• Good dimensional stability

Advantages:
• Strong and durable
• Transparent and clear
• Suitable for high-stress applications
• Good heat resistance

Disadvantages:
• Can be difficult to print with
• Requires a heated bed to prevent warping and cracking
• Limited color options

Recommended Applications:
• Optical lenses and components
• Safety glasses and goggles
• Automotive parts
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a heated bed set at 90-110°C to prevent warping and cracking
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 260-300°C
• Print in a well-ventilated area to minimize fumes

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Apply a PC-specific adhesive to bond parts together

In summary, Polycarbonate is a strong and transparent filament material that is suitable for
high-stress applications such as optical lenses, safety glasses, and automotive parts. It has
excellent mechanical properties and heat resistance, making it a popular choice in the
manufacturing industry. However, Polycarbonate can be difficult to print with and requires a
heated bed to prevent warping and cracking.
Chapter 9: PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) Filament
PVA is a water-soluble filament material that is commonly used as a support structure for 3D
printing. It is a synthetic polymer that dissolves in water, making it easy to remove after
printing. PVA is widely used in applications that require complex geometries and overhangs.
Properties:
• Water-soluble
• Low toxicity
• Good adhesion to other materials
• Easy to remove

Advantages:
• Easy to remove support structures
• Good adhesion to other materials
• Low toxicity

Disadvantages:
• Limited use as a standalone material
• Can be difficult to print with
• Requires a specific type of printer to use

Recommended Applications:
• Support structures for complex geometries
• Dual extrusion printing
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a printer with a dual extrusion system
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 180-220°C
• Store the filament in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture absorption

Post-Processing:
• Dissolve the PVA support structures in water

In summary, PVA is a water-soluble filament material that is commonly used as a support

structure for 3D printing. It is easy to remove after printing and has good adhesion to other
materials. However, PVA has limited use as a standalone material and can be difficult to print
with. It also requires a specific type of printer to use.
Chapter 10: HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene) Filament
HIPS is a filament material that is commonly used as a support structure for 3D printing. It is
a lightweight and durable material that is known for its excellent impact resistance. HIPS is
widely used in applications that require complex geometries and overhangs.
Properties:
• Lightweight and durable
• Good impact resistance
• Good dimensional stability
• Easy to paint and glue

Advantages:
• Easy to remove support structures
• Good adhesion to other materials
• Can be painted and glued easily

Disadvantages:
• Limited use as a standalone material
• Can be difficult to print with
• Can emit fumes during printing

Recommended Applications:
• Support structures for complex geometries
• Dual extrusion printing
• Prototyping
• Packaging materials

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a printer with a dual extrusion system
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 230-250°C
• Store the filament in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture absorption

Post-Processing:
• Dissolve the HIPS support structures in limonene or other solvent
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Paint or glue the part as desired

In summary, HIPS is a lightweight and durable filament material that is commonly used as a
support structure for 3D printing. It is easy to remove after printing and can be painted and
glued easily. However, HIPS has limited use as a standalone material and can be difficult to
print with. It can also emit fumes during printing, so it should be used in a well-ventilated
area.
Chapter 11: ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) Filament

ASA is a filament material that is similar to ABS but with improved weather resistance. It is a
thermoplastic polymer that is known for its excellent dimensional stability and resistance to
UV radiation. ASA is widely used in applications that require outdoor durability.
Properties:
• Good weather resistance
• Good dimensional stability
• Good impact resistance
• Low shrinkage

Advantages:
• Resistant to UV radiation
• Suitable for outdoor applications
• Good dimensional stability
• Low shrinkage

Disadvantages:
• Requires a heated bed to prevent warping and cracking
• Can be difficult to print with
• Limited color options

Recommended Applications:
• Outdoor signage and displays
• Automotive parts
• Household items (outdoor furniture, planters)
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a heated bed set at 80-90°C to prevent warping and cracking
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 240-260°C
• Print in a well-ventilated area to minimize fumes

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Apply a UV-resistant clear coat to enhance the weather resistance

In summary, ASA is a filament material that is similar to ABS but with improved weather
resistance. It is resistant to UV radiation and suitable for outdoor applications, making it a
popular choice for outdoor signage, displays, and furniture. However, ASA requires a heated
bed to prevent warping and cracking and can be difficult to print with.
Chapter 12: PP (Polypropylene) Filament

PP is a filament material that is known for its toughness and flexibility. It is a thermoplastic
polymer that has excellent chemical resistance and is widely used in the manufacturing
industry.
Properties:
• Tough and flexible
• Excellent chemical resistance
• Low density
• Good dimensional stability

Advantages:
• Strong and durable
• Chemical resistant
• Low density
• Suitable for applications that require flexibility

Disadvantages:
• Can be difficult to print with
• Requires a specific type of printer to use
• Limited color options

Recommended Applications:
• Automotive parts
• Containers and packaging materials
• Living hinges
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a printer with a heated bed and enclosure to prevent warping
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 220-250°C
• Use a build surface or apply glue stick to improve adhesion

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges

In summary, PP is a filament material that is tough and flexible, making it suitable for
applications that require flexibility and durability. It has excellent chemical resistance and is
widely used in the manufacturing industry. However, PP can be difficult to print with and
requires a specific type of printer to use.
Chapter 13: PC-ABS (Polycarbonate-Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Filament
PC-ABS is a filament material that combines the properties of Polycarbonate and ABS. It
is a strong and durable material that has good impact resistance and heat resistance.
Properties:
• Strong and durable
• Good impact resistance
• Good heat resistance
• Good dimensional stability

Advantages:
• Combines the properties of Polycarbonate and ABS
• Strong and durable
• Suitable for high-stress applications
• Good impact and heat resistance

Disadvantages:
• Can be difficult to print with
• Requires a heated bed to prevent warping and cracking
• Limited color options
• Recommended Applications:
• Automotive parts
• Electrical housings
• Prototyping
• Tooling

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a heated bed set at 90-110°C to prevent warping and cracking
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 240-260°C
• Print in a well ventilated area to minimize fumes

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Apply a PC-ABS-specific adhesive to bond parts together

In summary, PC-ABS is a filament material that combines the properties of Polycarbonate and
ABS. It is strong and durable, making it suitable for high-stress applications such as
automotive parts and tooling. However, PC-ABS can be difficult to print with and requires a
heated bed to prevent warping and cracking
Chapter 14: Carbon Fiber Filament

Carbon fiber filament is a composite material that is widely used in the aerospace and
automotive industries due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio. It is a thermoplastic
polymer that is reinforced with carbon fibers, resulting in a lightweight and durable material.
Properties:
• High strength-to-weight ratio
• Lightweight and durable
• Good dimensional stability
• Low thermal expansion

Advantages:
• Strong and durable
• Lightweight and low density
• Suitable for high-stress applications
• Low thermal expansion

Disadvantages:
• Expensive
• Can be abrasive to printer components
• Can emit fumes during printing

Recommended Applications:
• Aerospace and automotive parts
• Sports equipment (bicycles, helmets)
• Robotics and drones
• Prototyping

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a hardened steel nozzle to prevent wear and tear
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 240-260°C
• Use a print fan to prevent warping and improve adhesion
• Print in a well-ventilated area to minimize fumes

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Apply a clear coat to enhance the appearance and protect the surface
• Use a deburring tool to remove any sharp edges

In summary, carbon fiber filament is a composite material that is known for its strength-to-
weight ratio and durability. It is widely used in the aerospace and automotive industries and
is suitable for high-stress applications. However, carbon fiber filament is expensive and can
be abrasive to printer components. It can also emit fumes during printing, so it should be
used in a well-ventilated area.
Chapter 15: Metal Filament
Metal filament is a composite material that contains a mixture of metal particles and a
thermoplastic polymer. It is a unique filament material that allows 3D printers to create
metal-like objects with a desktop printer. Metal filament can contain a variety of metals,
including copper, bronze, and stainless steel.
Properties:
• Metallic appearance
• High density and weight
• Good thermal and electrical conductivity
• Good strength and durability

Advantages:
• Can create metal-like objects with a desktop printer
• Suitable for prototyping and small-scale production
• Can create intricate shapes and designs

Disadvantages:
• Expensive
• Requires a printer with a high-temperature extruder
• Can be abrasive to printer components

Recommended Applications:
• Jewelry and fashion accessories
• Decorative items
• Prototyping
• Small-scale production

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a printer with a high-temperature extruder and heated bed
• Print at a nozzle temperature of 200-230°C
• Use a slow print speed to prevent stringing and oozing
• Store the filament in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture absorption

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Polish the surface to enhance the metallic appearance
• Apply a clear coat to protect the surface and enhance the appearance

In summary, metal filament is a unique filament material that allows 3D printers to create
metal-like objects with a desktop printer. It is suitable for prototyping and small-scale
production, and can create intricate shapes and designs. However, metal filament is
expensive and requires a printer with a high-temperature extruder. It can also be abrasive to
printer components.
Chapter 16: Wood Filament
Wood filament is a composite material that contains a mixture of wood particles and a
thermoplastic polymer. It is a unique filament material that allows 3D printers to create
objects with a wood-like appearance and texture. Wood filament can contain a variety of
wood particles, including bamboo, birch, and cedar.
Properties:
• Wood-like appearance and texture
• Low density and weight
• Good thermal and electrical insulation
• Good dimensional stability

Advantages:
• Can create objects with a wood-like appearance and texture
• Suitable for prototyping and small-scale production
• Can create intricate shapes and designs

Disadvantages:
• Can be difficult to print with
• Can emit fumes during printing
• Limited strength and durability

Recommended Applications:
• Decorative items
• Household items (picture frames, lamp shades)
• Prototyping
• Small-scale production

Tips for Successful Printing:

• Use a nozzle temperature of 185-200°C
• Use a slow print speed to prevent stringing and oozing
• Use a print fan to prevent warping and improve adhesion
• Store the filament in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture absorption

Post-Processing:
• Sand the surface of the part to remove any imperfections
• Stain or paint the part as desired
• Apply a clear coat to protect the surface and enhance the appearance

In summary, wood filament is a unique filament material that allows 3D printers to create
objects with a wood-like appearance and texture. It is suitable for prototyping and small-scale
production, and can create intricate shapes and designs. However, wood filament can be
difficult to print with and can emit fumes during printing. It also has limited strength and
durability.
Chapter 17: Conclusion and Future Developments
In conclusion, there are many different types of 3D printing filament materials available, each
with its own unique properties, advantages, and disadvantages. Choosing the right filament
material for your project depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as
strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and appearance.
As the field of 3D printing continues to evolve, we can expect to see new filament materials
and innovations that push the boundaries of what is possible with 3D printing. One area of
development is the use of sustainable and eco-friendly filament materials, such as
biodegradable PLA and recycled PETG. Another area is the development of filament materials
with improved properties, such as higher strength, increased flexibility, and better heat
resistance.
Additionally, advancements in 3D printing technology, such as new printer designs and
software improvements, will make it easier and more accessible for users to experiment with
different filament materials and create complex and intricate designs.

As the demand for 3D printing continues to grow in various industries, the development and
use of new filament materials will play an important role in expanding the possibilities of this
technology. By staying up-to-date on the latest developments and trends in 3D printing
filament materials, users can take advantage of new opportunities and create innovative
solutions to meet the needs of their projects.
Let's explore limitless possibilities together. Reach us here is the Route

https://www.divbyz.com/contact

M–6/7 & O–1, Neighbourhood Complex, Near SBI Branch Sector 4, Off, Palm Beach Rd,
Nerul West, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 400706
+91-9167943604 / 8828251944
sales@divbyz.com