3D Printing Materials Guide
Selecting the right material is critical for functional 3D printed parts. This guide covers common 3D printing materials and their properties across FDM, SLA, and powder-based technologies.
FDM Materials
| Material | Strength | Heat Resist | Cost/kg | Applications |
|---|
| PLA | 50 MPa | 55°C | 0-30 | Prototyping, jigs, fixtures |
| PETG | 55 MPa | 70°C | 5-40 | Functional parts, food contact |
| ABS | 45 MPa | 90°C | 5-35 | Enclosures, prototypes |
| PC | 65 MPa | 125°C | 0-60 | Engineered components |
| Nylon 12 | 50 MPa | 95°C | 0-80 | Durable gears, living hinges |
| Carbon fiber filled | 80 MPa | 100°C | 0-100 | Lightweight structural parts |
SLA/DLP Resins
| Resin Type | Tensile | Elongation | Cost/L | Best For |
|---|
| Standard | 40-50 MPa | 5-10% | 0-80 | Visual prototypes |
| Tough | 45-55 MPa | 25-50% | 00-150 | Functional parts, snap-fits |
| High temp | 55-65 MPa | 2-5% | 50-250 | Molding, hot air flow |
| Flexible | 8-15 MPa | 150-300% | 00-200 | Seals, gaskets, grips |
| Casting | Low ash | N/A | 00-180 | Investment casting patterns |
Powder-Based Materials (SLS/MJF/DMLS)
- Nylon PA12: Most common SLS material. Good balance of strength, flexibility, chemical resistance.
- Nylon PA11: More flexible and impact-resistant than PA12. Bio-derived.
- TPU: Flexible, rubber-like. For seals, cushions, wearable parts.
- Stainless 316L/17-4PH: DMLS. Fully dense metal parts for functional testing.
- Titanium Ti-6Al-4V: Aerospace and medical implants.
- Aluminum AlSi10Mg: Lightweight structural parts with good thermal properties.
Selection Guide
- Prototyping: PLA (low cost) or standard resin (high detail)
- Functional testing: PETG, Nylon, or Tough resin
- End-use parts: Carbon fiber filled, PC, or metal DMLS
- High temperature: PC, high-temp resin, or metal
- Flexible parts: TPU or flexible resin
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