With 3D printing technology now far from the realms of science fiction and firmly entrenched in everyday life, the need for accessible and dependable materials has grown consistently. Consequently, there is now a wealth of filaments, resins, and other 3D printing materials with varying capabilities and price points readily available.
It’s important to be mindful of the price tags associated with the different materials accessible for 3D printing as you contemplate utilizing this technology. Understanding their respective costs will enable you to prudently select the appropriate material for your venture.
PLA, a 3D printing staple, is a renewable thermoplastic crafted from cornstarch and brings unparalleled quality for its cost. At a budget-friendly rate of approximately $20/kg, PLA ensures that your prints come out with a silky smooth finish that shines.
ABS, the strong and resilient material made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, serves as a dependable 3D printing option. It’s highly suitable for the creation of automobile components, toys, and electronic cases – items that need to be robust. Although it’s more difficult to print out than PLA, you’ll get a gratification from the Matte finished print. For ABS the cost per kilogram works out to be about $25.
PETG, a plastic derived from polyethylene terephthalate, is a highly desirable 3D printing material. Boasting layer adhesion, heat endurance, and resilience to impact, PETG prints have a glossy and crystal clear texture that justifies its price tag of approximately $30/kg. Its colorless and highly flexible nature makes for a premium printing experience.
Boasting robust durability and top-notch tensile strength, Nylon is a perpetually popular printing material employed for parts that must withstand wear and tear. Its prints emanate with a matte finish, yet the printing process itself demands far more skill to master than PLA or ABS. It usually retails for around fifty dollars per kilogram, granting you ample bang-for-your-buck with its effective defense against impacts and rubbing.
3D printing with TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) requires an investment in flexible and stretchy materials that offer increased elasticity. In return, you can fabricate phone cases, toys, and other items requiring resilience to impacts, all at an affordable price – generally about $50 per kilogram.
Price is a core factor when determining the appropriate 3D printing material, so it’s imperative to consider the costs of various materials before settling on the one that best suits your project and budget. Ultimately, familiarizing yourself with the price tags of different materials allows you to make an educated judgement and invest in a material that meets both your fiscal and practical needs.