MATERIALS
The right material depends on how the part will be used: load, flexibility, temperature, weather exposure, surface finish and dimensional requirements all matter.
QUICK GUIDE
A rigid, dimensionally stable material that prints cleanly and is well suited to visual prototypes, concept models and lightly loaded parts.
Prototypes, visual models, jigs, fixtures and indoor parts with limited heat exposure.
Excellent when surface quality and dimensional clarity matter more than heat or impact resistance.
A practical all-round engineering material with a useful balance of toughness, chemical resistance and printability.
Functional parts, brackets, covers, containers and components exposed to moisture or moderate mechanical use.
A common choice when PLA is too brittle or heat-sensitive but a high-temperature material is unnecessary.
A flexible and resilient material that can absorb vibration, repeated bending and impact.
Protective parts, flexible mounts, bumpers, grips, seals and vibration-damping components.
TPU grades vary greatly in hardness, so the required stiffness should be considered before printing.
A durable engineering plastic valued for UV and weather resistance, making it suitable for demanding outdoor applications.
Outdoor housings, brackets, automotive-style parts, fixtures and functional components exposed to sunlight.
Benefits from controlled printing conditions because large parts can warp as they cool.
A tough engineering material with good impact and temperature resistance and a long history in functional plastic components.
Functional housings, fixtures, mechanical prototypes and parts that require more heat resistance than PLA or PETG.
Controlled ambient temperature is useful for larger parts. ASA is usually preferred when long-term UV exposure is expected.
A strong, wear-resistant engineering polyamide for mechanically demanding parts where toughness and durability are important.
Mechanical components, wear parts, gears, bushings, fixtures and heavily loaded functional prototypes.
Polyamides absorb moisture readily and should be printed dry. Nylon grades vary significantly; always follow the specific filament data sheet.
NOT SURE WHICH MATERIAL?
Send the application, environment and any mechanical requirements you already know. Material selection can be discussed as part of the project review.