Polylactic Acid (PLA) filament is a popular thermoplastic material usually made from corn starch and other plant-based materials. Compared to other filaments, it prints at a relatively low temperature, reducing the risk of warping.
Our range has found extensive use in various applications, from hobbyist projects to educational models, due to its strength and flexibility. 3D Printing Canada, PLA filaments are available in multiple colours & finishes, including matte, glossy and more. Â
Let’s quickly look at our collection of PLA filaments!
Types of PLA FilamentÂ
Our collection is broader than one or two varieties. We cover all types of PLA filament, and where each has its unique properties and uses. Below are the three categories in which we have partitioned them!
1. Common PLA Filament
PLA- Polylactic Acid
PLA filament serves various industry purposes! For instance, due to its non-toxic nature, it is considered ideal for food applications. In contrast, its ease of use and low-temperature heat resistance make it famous for creating prototypes and concept models. It is the best filament option for inexperienced 3D printer users due to its compatibility, versatility, and reasonable price.Â
PLA+ - Polylactic Acid+
With higher heat resistance as compared to traditional PLA, PLA+ filament absorbs less moisture and has a low shrinkage rate. It also offers better consistency, rigidity, and surface finish with higher toughness. All these properties make it suitable for applications such as manufacturing drone parts, aerospace components, and more.Â
High-Speed PLA
Ordinary PLA doesn’t work well at high flow rates, therefore, for faster print speed and a higher volumetric speed, high-speed PLA is best. It enables printing at elevated temperatures, ensuring more robust and precise prints with smoother finishes. This filament is suitable for 3D printers such as Creality and is used for various applications, including jewelry, toys, and functional parts.Â
2. Artistic PLA Filament
PLA Silk
PLA Silk filament, known for its glossy finish, adds a luxurious sheen to printed objects and enhances visual appearance.
PLA Polychromatic Silk
A blend of more than one colour in a single filament, which you can use to create dynamic and colourful 3D prints.
PLA Matte
It provides a non-glossy and muted finish, reducing light reflections for a subtle and sophisticated appearance, suitable for projects where glare is a concern, such as Architectural Visualization.
PLA Pearl
Featuring a pearlescent finish, this filament gives prints a shimmering effect reminiscent of pearl, significant for making jewelry, ornaments, and decorative pieces.
PLA Wood
It is ideal for creating realistic prototypes, artistic models, and furniture replicas, PLA wood filament contains wood fibers or additives.
PLA Metal
The polylactic acid metal filament is infused with metal particles, or finishes and produces prints with a metallic appearance and texture, suitable for functional parts and metallic-themed designs.
PLA Glow In The Dark
This artistic filament possesses phosphorescent properties, allowing prints to glow in low-light conditions after exposure to light sources. You can use it in making various projects, signage, and novelty items.
3. Flexible PLA Filament
Soft PLA -Polylactic Acid Blend
It is a natural, biodegradable 3D printing filament with excellent inter-layer adhesion and durability. Flexible soft PLA filament is predominantly used in the Medical industry for creating custom medical devices, prosthetics, and orthotics that require the most flexibility.
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FAQs
What is PLA filament, and what are its primary uses in 3D printing?
Polylactic Acid filament is a bio-based thermoplastic filament made from resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. These are some of its primary uses in 3D printing;
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Prototyping of models and functional parts
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Educational projects and models
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Artistic creations and sculptures
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Decorative items and figurines
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Architectural models and designs
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Household items and organizers
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Customized accessories and jewelry pieces
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Mechanical parts with low heat resistance requirements
How do I choose the suitable PLA filament for my 3D printing projects?
While choosing PLA filament for your 3D printing projects, consider these below-mentioned factors;
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Consider filament diameter (1.75mm or 2.85mm) compatible with your printer.
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Check colour options based on your project's aesthetics or requirements.
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Ensure the filament's printing temperature range matches your 3D printer's capabilities.
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Read user reviews and feedback to gauge filament performance and reliability.
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Test samples or smaller spools before committing to larger quantities for critical projects.
Is PLA filament different from PLA+ filament?
Indeed! PLA+ (Polylactic Acid+) filament is an enhanced version of PLA, typically offering improved strength, durability, and heat resistance while maintaining PLA's eco-friendly properties. PLA+ filaments are engineered with additives or modifications to achieve these enhanced characteristics, making them suitable for more demanding 3D printing applications.
What makes PLA Soft Polylactic Acid Blend Filament unique?
PLA Soft Polylactic Acid Blend Filament combines the ease of printing with PLA and the flexibility of softer materials like rubber. It is designed for projects requiring bendable and resilient prints, such as flexible medical devices, textiles, toys, and other applications where traditional PLA's rigidity is unsuitable.
