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Guide to Which 3D Printing Material Is Right for You

3D printing is a fun hobby everyone can enjoy; however, it gets a little more complicated when you start making more complex designs or creating pieces that need to be functional. For many people, it can be challenging to figure out what type of 3D printing material they should be using for a specific project, so today, we will talk about different types of material and what applications they are best suited for.






PLA

PLA filament is widely considered the most common 3D filament material currently used by most 3D printing hobbyists to create physical 3D printed objects. PLA is so popular because it is one of the easier materials to use, especially for people who are newer in the 3D printing world, and it is so versatile that it can be used for most prints. The most common use of PLA filament is for hobby printing. Many people will use PLA to create miniature sculptures or figures to express their passions and art through the world of 3D printing. Many will also use PLA filament to make decorative items around their houses that align with their desires or create outfits and accessories. Since PLA is a safe and non-toxic material, many teachers have started using 3D print models made with PLA material as teaching tools in their classrooms. PLA is an all-around wildly flexible filament for whatever you need to print.


ASA

filament is a much less common 3D printing material to use in the hobby space but much more practical for outdoor and engineering applications. ASA is a thermoplastic filament with properties that make it ideal when needing something that is both durable and UV resistant. Because ASA is so resistant to UV radiation and weathering, it is perfect for pieces such as outdoor fixtures and signs without worrying about prolonged exposure to sunlight. ASA is also commonly used for automotive and marine parts, and these are not engine components but more elements such as mirror license plate holders, grilles, and exterior trim. ASA works so well in these situations because, alongside its UV resistance, it also has corrosion, moisture, and saltwater resistance. ASA is an excellent material for creating useful 3D prints


Resin

Resin 3D printers have been becoming more popular recently because resin allows you to create highly detailed and intricate prints that require a smooth finish. Resin is the go-to material in most professional applications, such as creating prototypes. Engineers and designers often use resin to create detailed prototypes for testing. Architects use it similarly to help clients visualize and understand their designs with a highly detailed 3D print model. Resin printing is also often used to create molds and casts for jewelry and small-scale products. Resin printing is a very versatile printing technique for professional applications. Still, it can also be used for hobby prints but may need to be revised due to the more complicated procedure

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