PLA Plus filament: The ultimate material for 3D printing
PLA filament, polylactic acid, has long established itself as the most popular beginner filament. It impresses with its ease of use, low odor emission, and the ability to process it without special equipment. However, for users who have higher demands on their 3D prints, PLA Plus filament offers an advanced alternative that brings numerous advantages over conventional PLA.
What is PLA Plus filament?
PLA Plus is an advancement of the classic PLA filament. It combines the advantages of PLA with the improved mechanical properties of other materials. In particular, it is characterized by significantly increased impact resistance and heat resistance. These properties make PLA Plus an outstanding all-rounder, suitable both for beginners in 3D printing and for more demanding applications.
Improved impact resistance
One of the most impressive features of PLA Plus filament is its impact resistance, which is about ten times higher than that of conventional PLA. This property is especially advantageous when printing mechanically stressed parts. By crystallizing the printed object afterward, the impact toughness can be further increased – up to 233 J/m. This corresponds to 15 times the toughness of normal PLA and even exceeds ABS by a factor of 2.2.
Higher heat resistance through crystallization
Another significant advantage of PLA Plus is its improved heat resistance. Unlike conventional PLA, which softens at temperatures above 60 °C, PLA Plus can withstand temperatures up to 80 °C after a crystallization process. This process is easy to perform: the printed object is reheated in an oven for a certain period, which solidifies the molecular structure of the material and significantly increases its heat resistance.
Versatility and applications
The outstanding mechanical properties of PLA Plus make it an extremely versatile filament. It is suitable not only for simple prototypes but also for functional parts that must withstand mechanical stress. Especially in areas where increased impact resistance and temperature resistance are required, such as in the production of housings, mounts, or moving parts, PLA Plus is the first choice.
Easy handling and environmental friendliness
Despite its improved properties, PLA Plus remains easy to process and does not require a special 3D printer. It does not warp and adheres well to the print bed, resulting in high print quality. Additionally, like conventional PLA, PLA Plus is biodegradable as it is based on renewable raw materials such as corn starch. This makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to filaments like ABS or PETG.
Conclusion: PLA Plus Filament – The best choice for demanding 3D prints
For users who expect more from their 3D printing material, PLA Plus filament is the ideal choice. With its superior impact resistance, the ability to crystallize, and the associated heat resistance, it surpasses conventional PLA in many areas. These properties make it the perfect material for a wide range of applications, from simple prototypes to mechanically stressed components. PLA Plus is thus the filament of the future for everyone who values quality and performance.