PLA 3D prints - Imprimy

Are you interested in learning more about PLA 3D printing and its specificities? At Imprimy, we offer to answer all your questions on the subject.

What is PLA?

PLA, or polylactic acid, is a material primarily used in 3D printing, and it has gained significant popularity due to its many advantages, such as its ease of use.

The definition and composition of PLA

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable thermoplastic polymer derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. It is one of the most widely used materials in 3D printing due to its eco-friendly nature and ease of use.

PLA is composed of lactic acid molecules, which are created through the fermentation of plant sugars. These molecules are then polymerized to form a long-chain structure, which gives PLA its thermoplastic properties. The result is a material that is both strong and rigid while being relatively easy to print with, especially for beginners. Its biodegradable nature also makes it a more environmentally friendly alternative to many other plastics commonly used in 3D printing.

The different technical properties of PLA

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a popular 3D printing material due to its various technical properties that make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Here are some of the key properties:

Biodegradability: PLA is derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, and it is biodegradable under the right conditions. This makes it an eco-friendly alternative to many petroleum-based plastics.
Ease of Use: PLA is easy to print with, making it one of the most accessible materials for beginners in 3D printing. It has a low printing temperature (around 180-220°C), and it does not require a heated bed, though it can benefit from one.
Low Warping: PLA tends to experience minimal warping during printing, reducing the likelihood of print failures and making it ideal for printing objects with large flat surfaces.
Strength and Stiffness: PLA has good tensile strength and stiffness, which allows it to maintain its shape under moderate pressure. However, it is more brittle compared to other materials like ABS or PETG, and can break or crack under stress.
Surface Finish: PLA provides a smooth, glossy finish that gives prints an attractive appearance. This is particularly useful for aesthetic applications like decorative objects or prototypes.
Low Odor: PLA has a relatively low odor when heated, making it more comfortable to work with compared to some other 3D printing materials, such as ABS, which can emit stronger fumes.
Temperature Resistance: PLA has a lower heat resistance compared to other plastics. It can soften at temperatures above 60°C, which limits its use for parts that will be exposed to high temperatures.
Environmental Impact: Being made from renewable resources, PLA has a lower carbon footprint than petroleum-based plastics, though it requires specific conditions for effective biodegradation (such as industrial composting environments).
Color Options and Customization: PLA filaments are available in a wide range of colors and even blends, including wood-like, metallic, and glow-in-the-dark variants, allowing for high customization in projects.

These properties make PLA an excellent choice for creating prototypes, models, toys, and decorative objects. However, for more functional parts exposed to higher stresses or temperatures, other materials like ABS or PETG may be better suited.

What are the advantages of 3D printing with PLA?

PLA offers numerous advantages, such as ease of use, greater safety compared to other plastic filaments, and increased accessibility for beginners.

The ease of use of PLA

PLA is renowned for its ease of use, especially in the field of 3D printing and industrial applications. It offers excellent adhesion to the print bed without requiring a heated surface, simplifying the process for beginners. Its low melting point allows for easy and uniform extrusion, reducing the risk of clogging or imperfections. Additionally, it emits minimal odors during use, making it pleasant to work with in enclosed spaces. PLA is also compatible with a wide range of 3D printers, and its balanced mechanical properties make it a versatile material for prototypes, decorative, or functional objects. However, its sensitivity to heat and humidity requires proper storage and limits its use for outdoor applications or in demanding environments.

The safety and environmental impact of 3D PLA printing

PLA is considered one of the safest and most eco-friendly materials for 3D printing. Derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, it emits few volatile organic compounds or fine particles during extrusion, reducing health risks compared to other plastics like ABS. In terms of ecological impact, PLA is biodegradable in industrial conditions, where specific heat, humidity, and microorganisms enable its decomposition into water, carbon dioxide, and biomass. However, it decomposes slowly in natural environments, such as home composting, and requires specific infrastructure for efficient recycling. Although PLA is bio-based, its production involves energy consumption and agricultural resources, which can raise concerns about its overall environmental footprint. Furthermore, PLA-printed objects are generally non-toxic, but it is recommended to check the additives in the filaments for use in food or medical applications.

The accessibility of PLA

PLA is widely accessible, which contributes to its popularity in many fields, particularly 3D printing. Due to its production from abundant renewable resources, it is available at competitive prices compared to other thermoplastic materials. PLA filaments are offered in a wide variety of diameters, colors, and finishes, meeting a broad range of aesthetic and functional needs. They are also easy to find, both online and in specialized 3D printing or plastic material stores. Additionally, its accessibility extends to its compatibility with most 3D printers, even entry-level models, making it ideal for both hobbyists and professionals. However, certain specialized variants of PLA, such as those reinforced with fibers or designed for specific applications, may be more expensive or less common.

What are the limitations of PLA?

PLA has several limitations, particularly when it comes to heat resistance and its fragility.

Low heat resistance

PLA has low heat resistance, which is one of its main limitations. With a glass transition temperature between 50 and 60°C, it begins to soften well before reaching high temperatures. This makes PLA unsuitable for applications exposed to hot environments, such as the inside of a car in summer or objects subjected to dishwasher washing. This behavior can cause warping, loss of rigidity, or even partial melting. While modified versions of PLA, such as high-temperature PLA, can slightly improve this resistance, they typically require additional heat treatment steps, known as annealing, to achieve their maximum performance. This thermal sensitivity thus limits the use of PLA to contexts where dimensional stability at high temperatures is not critical.

The brittleness of PLA

PLA is known for its brittleness, which results from its rigid molecular structure and low elasticity. Although it offers good tensile strength and is relatively hard, it has a low impact resistance and can break easily under sudden or repeated stress. This brittleness limits its use for parts subjected to dynamic forces or significant bending. Additionally, PLA tends to crack or fragment in very dry environments or after prolonged exposure to UV light, which can affect its long-term durability. Some modified PLA filaments, enriched with additives or blended with other polymers, are available to improve impact resistance, but these variants remain less robust than materials like ABS or PETG.

What are the applications of PLA in 3D printing?

PLA 3D prints are used for domestic purposes, educational sectors, as well as industrial and creative applications.

The domestic use of PLA 3D prints

PLA is particularly well-suited for domestic use in 3D printing due to its ease of use, safety, and compatibility with consumer-grade 3D printers. It is ideal for creating decorative objects, prototypes, toys, or practical accessories for the home, such as hooks or holders. The absence of harmful fumes or odors during extrusion makes it a safe material to use, as long as the room is well-ventilated. However, its low heat resistance and fragility limit its use for parts subjected to high mechanical stress or elevated temperatures. PLA objects can also be used in educational or DIY projects, providing an accessible and versatile solution for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike. However, for specific applications such as food utensils, it’s important to ensure that the filament used is certified as free from potentially harmful additives.

The use of PLA 3D printing in educational sectors

The use of PLA 3D printing in educational sectors is on the rise, as it offers numerous opportunities to enhance learning and stimulate creativity. Due to its ease of use and low cost, PLA is an ideal material for schools, universities, and educational workshops. It allows students to design and create 3D objects, fostering the learning of design, engineering, technology, and mathematics concepts. Teachers can use PLA to illustrate abstract concepts, such as geometric structures, or to create physical models of items studied in class, such as cells, historical objects, or scientific inventions. Furthermore, its low toxicity and lack of odors make it safe for use in school environments. However, the fragility of PLA and its sensitivity to heat should be considered when creating items meant for frequent handling.

PLA in artistic and creative fields

PLA is particularly appreciated in artistic and creative fields due to its versatility, ease of use, and wide range of available colors and finishes. It allows artists and creators to produce sculptures, decorative objects, prototypes, as well as functional pieces with high precision. Being translucent and offering excellent surface quality, PLA is ideal for works requiring fine details and an aesthetic finish. Additionally, it can be easily modified or blended with other materials to achieve unique visual effects. Its use in 3D printing opens up new possibilities for customized creations, such as jewelry, models, or accessories. While PLA is limited by its fragility and low heat resistance, these characteristics can be mitigated by selecting specific finishes or combining PLA with other materials for more durable projects.

Other Practical Applications of PLA 3D Printing

3D printing with PLA finds numerous practical applications across various industries:

Industrial Prototyping:
PLA is widely used for creating functional prototypes, enabling companies to quickly test concepts and refine designs before moving into mass production.
Medical Field:
PLA’s precision and compatibility with 3D scanners make it ideal for producing personalized anatomical models, custom prosthetics, and assistive devices tailored to individual needs.
Architecture:
PLA is utilized to produce detailed architectural models of complex buildings, allowing for clear visualization of projects and designs.
Aerospace:
In the aerospace sector, PLA is used to create lightweight components with reduced costs and ease of printing, especially for design iterations and non-structural parts.
Education:
Beyond educational objects, PLA is employed to create scientific experiment setups, models of ecosystems, and geometric structures, fostering creativity and hands-on learning in classrooms.
Leisure and Home Use:
PLA is popular for manufacturing replacement parts, home accessories, and decorative elements, offering a personalized alternative to standard products.

Thanks to its affordability, ease of use, and eco-friendly nature, PLA continues to expand its presence in diverse fields, providing innovative solutions for both professional and personal projects.

How to Achieve Successful PLA 3D Prints ?

To achieve successful PLA 3D prints, you need to carefully apply some basic settings, including for the heated bed and filament storage.

Basic Settings for Your PLA 3D Prints

To achieve high-quality 3D prints with PLA, it’s essential to adjust certain basic printer settings:

Extrusion Temperature: Set the nozzle temperature between 190°C and 220°C, depending on the type of PLA used, to ensure good filament flow and layer adhesion.
Heated Bed Temperature: The bed temperature should be around 50°C to 60°C, though PLA can often be printed successfully without a heated bed.
First Layer Adhesion: Ensure the first layer is well spread and adheres properly to the bed. This may require precise bed leveling and adjustment of the nozzle-to-bed distance.
Printing Speed: An ideal speed is between 40 and 60 mm/s. Reduce the speed for intricate details or high-precision prints.
Layer Height: Set the layer height between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, depending on the desired level of detail and surface finish.
Warping Prevention: Use moderate cooling (50-100%) to prevent warping. Avoid excessive cooling, as it may cause cracks or layer separation.
PLA Storage: Store PLA in a dry place or an airtight container with desiccants, as it absorbs moisture from the air, which can negatively affect print quality.

By carefully applying these settings, you can significantly improve the quality and consistency of your PLA prints.

Preparing the Print Bed

Proper bed preparation is crucial for ensuring good adhesion and the overall success of your 3D print. Here are the key steps to prepare your print bed when working with PLA:

Level the Bed: Ensure the bed is perfectly level. This is essential for consistent first-layer adhesion. Use the printer’s leveling feature (if available) or do it manually with a piece of paper. The nozzle should be at the right distance from the bed—about the thickness of a piece of paper.
Clean the Surface: Before each print, clean the bed thoroughly. Dust, grease, or leftover filament can prevent proper adhesion. Use a cloth with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to wipe the surface and remove any debris.
Use Adhesives if Needed: If you’re printing on an unheated bed or want extra adhesion, apply a thin layer of glue stick, hairspray, or use blue painter’s tape. These materials provide an additional grip for the first layer, helping to avoid warping or shifting.
Ensure Proper Temperature: For PLA, set the heated bed to around 50°C to 60°C. This helps the first layer stick to the bed while avoiding excessive warping.
Check the First Layer: Once your print starts, monitor the first layer carefully. It should spread smoothly and stick firmly to the bed. If it’s too thin or uneven, adjust the bed level or the nozzle distance.
Use Specialized Bed Surfaces: If you have a special print surface like PEI (Polyetherimide), glass, or BuildTak, it can provide better adhesion and easier print removal once cooled.

By following these steps, you can ensure the first layer of your PLA print adheres well, leading to a more successful and high-quality print.

Storing Your PLA Filaments

Proper storage of PLA filaments is essential for maintaining print quality and preventing issues such as moisture absorption, which can negatively impact the material’s performance. Here are key recommendations for storing PLA filaments:

Store in a Dry Environment: Keep PLA filaments in a dry environment, with a moderate temperature, ideally between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F). This helps prevent moisture absorption that can affect print quality.
Use Airtight Bags and Desiccants: Airtight bags along with silica gel packets or a dehumidifier are great solutions to keep moisture at bay, especially if you live in a humid region. These tools will help maintain optimal filament condition.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not expose PLA filaments to direct sunlight, as UV rays can degrade the material and negatively affect its printing properties.
Keep Away from Dusty or Dirty Areas: Avoid storing PLA in dusty or dirty areas, as contaminants can clog the nozzle or cause extrusion problems, leading to print defects.

By following these guidelines, you can preserve the quality of your PLA filaments and ensure better performance and durability during your 3D printing projects.

Optimizing 3D Printing Settings for PLA

Optimizing print settings for PLA is crucial to achieve high-quality results and avoid issues like adhesion problems or warping. Here are the key parameters to adjust:

Extrusion Temperature: The extrusion temperature should be set between 190°C and 220°C, depending on the PLA brand. This ensures optimal flow and good adhesion between layers.
Print Speed: Set the print speed between 40 mm/s and 60 mm/s to avoid stringing and maintain precision, while still balancing print time efficiency.
Layer Height: For detailed prints, reduce the layer height to about 0.1 mm to 0.3 mm. This will help achieve fine details and smooth surfaces.
Cooling: Active cooling is essential for PLA prints. Set the cooling fan to 50-100% to help solidify the layers quickly and prevent deformation or sagging, especially for overhangs and intricate features.
Bed Temperature: Set the heated bed temperature between 50°C and 60°C to prevent warping. However, some PLA filaments may not require a heated bed, so experiment based on the specific filament you’re using.
Retraction and Retraction Speed: Adjust the retraction distance and retraction speed to prevent filament leakage and stringing. Fine-tuning these settings can greatly reduce issues like oozing or unwanted threads during the print.

Since each 3D printer and filament can behave slightly differently, it’s essential to test and fine-tune these parameters to find the optimal settings for your specific print job. Adjusting these factors will ensure smoother prints, stronger adhesion, and higher-quality finished products.

Conclusion: 3D Printing with PLA

PLA is an incredibly versatile and popular material in 3D printing, thanks to its ease of use, good surface finish, and wide range of available colors and finishes. It is ideal for a variety of applications, including artistic projects, prototypes, functional parts, and decorative objects. When printed with the right settings, PLA can offer high-quality prints with fine details and excellent layer adhesion.

Key factors like extrusion temperature, print speed, layer height, cooling, and retraction settings are essential for achieving optimal results. Proper bed preparation and filament storage are also crucial to maintaining print quality and avoiding issues like warping, stringing, or poor adhesion.

With its relatively low printing temperature and compatibility with many 3D printers, PLA remains an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced makers. Whether you’re creating intricate designs, functional prototypes, or decorative items, PLA offers great results with careful adjustment and proper care.

By understanding and optimizing the parameters for your specific needs, PLA can deliver stunning and reliable 3D prints, making it a go-to material for countless creative and practical projects.

Picture by Freepik.

The articles published on Imprimy.com are for informational purposes only. They are intended to provide general advice and information related to 3D printing. Imprimy.com cannot be held responsible for the results obtained or the consequences arising from the application of the shared information. We recommend always checking the specific instructions for your hardware and materials before use.