PLA+ Filament in 3D printing is an enhanced version of PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament. It’s known for its improved toughness and higher strength compared to standard PLA, making it a popular choice for 3D printing projects that require durability. I have personally used PLA+ for a very long time now and can say it surely has a noticeably higher strength when compared to standard PLA.
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Understanding PLA+ Filament:
PLA+ Filament is an upgraded, more durable version of PLA filament used in 3D printing. It offers better toughness and durability, higher print quality, and a smoother surface finish. It’s also less brittle than regular PLA, making it a popular choice for 3D printing projects that require a bit more strength and flexibility.
Full Form of PLA+: Polylactic Acid Plus
Benefits Of Using PLA+ Filament In 3D Printing:
People use PLA+ in 3D printing because it has several advantages over standard PLA. It’s more durable, has better surface finish, and improved layer adhesion. It also has a lower shrinkage rate, which means it’s less likely to warp or deform during the cooling process.
Here are the benefits of using PLA+ filament:
1. Use When You Need Higher Strength: It’s best to use materials like ABS, PETG, or Nylon. These are tough materials, perfect for parts that need to handle a lot of stress or impact. Also, using a 3D printer that uses FDM or SLS methods can make stronger parts because of how they build objects layer by layer.
2. Use PLA+ for Detailed Prints: Due to its low shrinkage rate, PLA+ is great for printing intricate designs and details when compared to PLA.
3. Use PLA+ for Eco-Friendly Printing: PLA+ is a biodegradable material derived from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane.
4. Use PLA+ When You Need Strong Layer Adhesion: PLA+ has excellent layer adhesion, resulting in strong and durable prints.
5. Use PLA+ for Low-Temperature Printing: PLA+ prints at a lower temperature just like standard PLA, reducing the risk of warping or deformation.
Cons of Using PLA+ Filament:
The disadvantages of PLA+ filament include several factors that may impact its suitability for specific 3D printing applications. PLA+ is a modified version of PLA that aims to address some of the limitations of traditional PLA filament.
The disadvantages of using PLA+ Filament include:
1. Biodegradability: While being eco-friendly, PLA+ can degrade over time, which is not ideal for long-term outdoor use.
2. Difficulty in post-processing: Unlike ABS, PLA+ does not respond well to acetone smoothing, which can limit finishing options.
3. Store your PLA+ filament properly: PLA+ absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect print quality. Store it in a dry, cool place when not in use.
PLA+ Filament In 3D Printing Setting:
PLA+ filament 3D printing settings are pretty much the same as standard PLA. Usually, those settings are mentioned on the packaging of the filament itself. However, here are some general guidelines to help you get started with PLA+ filament printing:
1. Hotend Temperature: PLA+ filament typically requires a printing temperature ranging from 200°C (392°F) to 240°C (464°F). You can start with a temperature in the middle of this range and adjust it based on the specific filament and printer model.
2. Bed Temperature: A heated bed is not always necessary for PLA+ filament, but it can improve adhesion and reduce warping. A bed temperature between 50°C (122°F) – 60°C (140°F) may be suitable for your prints.
3. Nozzle Size: Choose a nozzle size that matches the filament diameter. For example, if you are using a 1.75 mm PLA+ filament, a 0.4 mm nozzle size would be suitable.
4. Layer Height: A layer height between 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm is recommended for PLA+ filament. This range provides a balance between print quality and print speed.
5. Print Speed: PLA+ filament benefits from slower print speeds compared to PLA. An initial print speed of 50mm/s to 60 mm/s, is recommended, but this can be adjusted based on the specific printer and filament.
Difference Between PLA and PLA+:
The difference between PLA and PLA+ filament lies in their material properties and performance characteristics. Here are some key differences between PLA and PLA+.
PLA Vs PLA+ Filament:
|
PLA+ Filament |
PLA Filament |
|---|---|
| Technical Properties: PLA+ (or Tough PLA) offers superior technical properties compared to standard PLA. It has higher thermal resistance, able to withstand temperatures of up to 70 degrees, and significantly better mechanical resistance, including impact resistance. | Technical Properties: PLA is known for its thermal resistance up to 50 degrees and has limited mechanical resistance, with an elongation at break of only 5 percent. It is a rigid material. |
| Printability and Strength: PLA+ is designed to address the brittleness and thermal performance limitations of PLA. It is claimed to offer improved strength, stiffness, and impact resistance, making it suitable for a wider range of applications. | Printability and Strength: PLA is easy to print and is stronger than expected, but it can be brittle and may not be suitable for all applications. |
| Strength and Durability: PLA+ provides improved strength and resilience, reducing the chances of cracking or breaking. | Strength and Durability: PLA is recognized for its stiffness, however, it can be prone to brittleness and may not be as durable as PLA+. |
PLA+ Filament FAQ:
You might have some questions to ask related to PLA+. For that, I will recommend you use our comment section. For now, we will cover a few popular PLA+ Filament FAQs.
Is PLA+ Stronger than PETG?
PLA+ and PETG are both popular materials used for 3D printing. PLA+ is known for its ease of use and high detail, but PETG is generally considered to be stronger and more durable. It also has better heat resistance. PETG can be a bit more difficult to print with than PLA+. So, in terms of strength and durability, PETG would typically be considered stronger than PLA+.
Is PLA+ Stronger than PLA?
Yes, PLA+ is generally considered stronger than standard PLA. PLA+ is an improved version of PLA that has added materials to increase its strength, durability, and flexibility. It also tends to have a smoother finish than standard PLA. However, the exact properties can vary depending on the specific formulation of the PLA+ used.
Is PLA+ Same As PETG?
No, PLA+ and PETG are not the same. They are both types of filament used in 3D printing, but they have different properties. PLA+ is an improved version of PLA that is stronger and more durable. PETG, on the other hand, is a different type of plastic that combines the functionality of ABS (strength, temperature resistance, durability) and the reliability of PLA (ease of printing) in one material.
Is PLA+ Filament Food Safe?
PLA+ filament, made from corn starch or sugar cane, is generally food-safe. However, 3D printing can introduce bacteria or contaminants, making the final product unsafe. Not all PLA+ filaments are the same, some may have unsafe additives. Always check with the manufacturer.
