Beginners in 3D printing often ask themselves which 3D printing filament is the best. For various reasons, PLA filament is ideal for people who are just starting out with 3D printing and have little experience. This filament for 3D printers is easy for beginners to process. It is considered the best filament for newcomers.
What is PLA?
PLA stands for polylactide. These are synthetic polymers that are ideal as plastic for 3D printing. The filament has numerous advantages that make it the ideal 3D filament. It is easy to print with PLA filament as it has a lower printing temperature than ABS. In addition, the 3D filament does not warp as much during printing. Many experts describe it as the best filament on the market and ideal material for 3D printing, especially for FDM printers.
Innovations in PLA Filament
There are numerous innovations in PLA filament available at Geeetech. The most important are:
- Silk PLA
- Wood PLA
- PLA for high-speed applications
- Luminous PLA Filament
If you would like to know more, please read our blog about Silk PLA Filament and Wood PLA.
The properties of PLA Filament
PLA has numerous practical properties for 3D printing. Above all, it is environmentally friendly and, due to its easy processing, ideal for beginners. An overview of the properties of PLA filament:
| Property | Details |
| Print temperature | 185 to 215 °C |
| Bed temperature | 25 to 60 °C |
| Print speed | 30 to 70 mm/s |
| Melting temperature | Approx. 180 to 220 °C |
| Material density | Approx. 1.24 g/cm³ |
| Post-processing options | Easy to sand and paint |
| Heat resistance | Low (approx. 50–60 °C, for unmodified PLA) |
| Strength | High rigidity, but also very brittle |
| Ductility | Low, not flexible |
| Biocompatibility | Biodegradable and food-safe (depending on manufacturer) |
| Sensitivity to moisture | Hygroscopic, so it should be stored dry |
| Surface quality | Produces smooth and high-quality surfaces |
| Color selection | Wide range available |
| Odor during printing | Mild and not intrusive |
| Application areas | PrototypingModel makingDecorationHousehold items |
Printing tip for using PLA
As already mentioned, PLA filament is very easy to use as a 3D filament for the printer. If you are wondering what materials you should buy for your 3D printer, one answer is: PLA filament from Geeetech. To ensure that you – even as a beginner – have a lot of fun with 3D printing and your filament, pay attention to the temperature specified by the manufacturer during processing.
The fan plays a special role. It can significantly improve the results if you turn the fan on full after applying the first layer. This reduces warping. In addition, the use of a slicer is recommended. This is software that tells the printer exactly how to dispense the material.
Common problems in 3D printing and solutions offered by PLA filament
Beginners often struggle with problems in 3D printing. The biggest challenges include large layer gaps, poor layer adhesion, stringing problems, or problems with bed adhesion. However, these problems can be solved with proper instruction and operation of the 3D printer.
Large layer gaps
Large layer gaps can have several causes. Causes due to the filament include poor quality or moist filament. This can lead to irregular material extrusion and thus create layer gaps. However, the printer nozzle can also be clogged or the temperature set too low. Then the 3D print filament does not melt and does not bond with the substrate.
Stringing
With thin plastic strands on the printed product, the problem usually lies in too high a temperature of the 3D print filament and insufficient retraction. The solution is to lower the temperature and optimize retraction.
Poor layer adhesion
If there are problems with layer adhesion, it is usually due to irregular cooling and inconsistent extrusion of the filament. The solution is to optimize ventilation and ensure a continuous supply of the 3D filament.
Problem with adhesion to the print bed
If the filament does not adhere to the print bed, it may be that the print bed is dirty, the speed is too high, or the temperature is too low.
Disposal and recycling of PLA
Geeetech's PLA filament is an environmentally friendly plastic. Objects made of PLA filament are very resistant to UV radiation, corrosion and other types of wear compared to other types of filament. The printed products made of PLA are therefore durable. Disposal is easy via residual waste.
Conclusion
The PLA 3D filament is an environmentally friendly filament for 3D printers. Geeetech filament is easy to process and is therefore also suitable for beginners. In addition, the filament is very resistant and durable and can be easily disposed of via residual waste. Thus, PLA is the ideal 3D printing filament – for the user and for the environment.