Embedded Files
There are several different types of PLA Material. Here we will cover standard PLA, PLA+, Wood PLA, Carbon Fiber PLA, Rainbow PLA, and Silk PLA
Standard PLA
Standard PLA
General Settings:
Hot End Temperature: 190–220°C (Recommended: 200°C)
Bed Temperature: 50–60°C (Can print without a heated bed)
Print Speed: 40–60 mm/s (Faster speeds may require higher temps)
Cooling Fan: 100% after the first layer
Retraction Distance: 1–2 mm (Direct Drive) | 4–6 mm (Bowden)
Retraction Speed: 25–45 mm/s
Additional Settings:
Layer Height: 0.1–0.2 mm (for standard quality)
First Layer Speed: 20 mm/s (for better adhesion)
Infill: 15–30% (higher for strength)
Bed Adhesion: Use a brim or raft if necessary; blue painter’s tape or glue stick works well.
Troubleshooting Tips:
Stringing? Increase retraction distance or enable "Combing Mode."
Poor adhesion? Clean bed surface, increase first layer temp, or use an adhesive.
Warping? Lower bed temp slightly or print with an enclosure.
PLA+
PLA+
PLA+ (enhanced PLA) offers improved strength, durability, and reduced brittleness compared to standard PLA. It generally prints at slightly higher temperatures.
General Settings:
Hot End Temperature: 200–230°C (Recommended: 210–220°C)
Bed Temperature: 50–65°C (Heated bed recommended)
Print Speed: 40–70 mm/s (Slower speeds for high detail)
Cooling Fan: 50–100% (Lower for better layer adhesion, higher for fine details)
Retraction Distance: 1–2 mm (Direct Drive) | 4–6 mm (Bowden)
Retraction Speed: 25–45 mm/s
Additional Settings:
Layer Height: 0.1–0.2 mm (Standard)
First Layer Speed: 20 mm/s (Improves adhesion)
Infill: 20–40% (Higher for strength)
Bed Adhesion: Brim or raft recommended for large prints; use glue stick or PEI sheet for better grip.
Troubleshooting Tips:
Stringing? Increase retraction or enable "Coast at End" in slicer.
Poor adhesion? Increase first layer temp, use a brim, or ensure a clean bed.
Warping? Slightly increase bed temp and use an enclosure if needed.
Differences Between PLA and PLA+
Differences Between PLA and PLA+
PLA and PLA+ are both widely used in 3D printing, but PLA+ is an upgraded version with improved strength, durability, and flexibility. Below is a detailed breakdown of their differences.
1. Strength & Durability
1. Strength & Durability
PLA: PLA is naturally brittle and can break easily under stress, especially in thin or delicate prints. While it is strong in general use, it tends to snap rather than bend.
PLA+: PLA+ has added impact modifiers that increase strength and flexibility. It is more resistant to cracking, making it a better choice for functional prints and moving parts.
2. Printing Temperature & Layer Adhesion
2. Printing Temperature & Layer Adhesion
PLA: Prints at a lower temperature, typically 190–220°C. It has decent layer adhesion but may suffer from weak points in mechanical applications.
PLA+: Requires a slightly higher print temperature of 200–230°C, which helps improve layer bonding. This results in prints that are more resistant to delamination and breaking.
3. Surface Finish & Flexibility
3. Surface Finish & Flexibility
PLA: Can have a matte or slightly rough texture, depending on the brand and manufacturer. It is also more rigid and prone to breaking under stress.
PLA+: Often has a smoother, silkier, or glossier finish, making prints look more polished. It also has a slight flexibility, preventing it from snapping as easily.
4. Resistance to Heat & Moisture
4. Resistance to Heat & Moisture
PLA: Has a heat resistance of around 55°C. Prints may soften or deform when exposed to high temperatures. It also absorbs moisture easily, which can lead to printing defects over time.
PLA+: Offers slightly better heat resistance, around 60°C, making it less prone to softening. It is also less hygroscopic, which absorbs less moisture, leading to better print consistency over time.
5. Ease of Printing
5. Ease of Printing
PLA: One of the easiest filaments to print with, making it a great choice for beginners. It has low warping and adheres well to most build surfaces.
PLA+: Still easy to print, but the higher temperature requirement means slight tuning may be needed. Retraction settings may need adjustments to prevent stringing.
6. Print Speed & Retraction
6. Print Speed & Retraction
PLA: Works well at speeds of 40–60 mm/s with standard retraction settings.
PLA+: Can handle faster speeds (40–70 mm/s) but may require higher retraction distance and speed to prevent stringing and oozing.
7. Applications & Best Uses
7. Applications & Best Uses
PLA: Best for prototypes, decorative objects, figurines, and low-stress parts that don’t require high durability.
PLA+: Ideal for functional parts, mechanical components, phone cases, tools, and items that undergo stress due to their superior strength and impact resistance.
8. Cost & Availability
8. Cost & Availability
PLA: Generally cheaper and widely available in a variety of colors and styles.
PLA+: Slightly more expensive due to added modifiers but still affordable for most users.
Which Should You Use?
Which Should You Use?
Choose PLA if you need an easy-to-print, affordable filament for decorative or simple projects.
Choose PLA+ if you need a stronger, more durable filament for functional or frequently handled prints.
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