PLA (Polylactic Acid)
The most popular and beginner-friendly 3D printing filament
filamentBeginner
Quick Specifications
Print Temp
190-220°C
Bed Temp
20-60°C
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
PLA is one of the most popular 3D printing materials and an excellent choice for beginners. It's a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugar cane.
Key Properties
- Easy to print: Low printing temperature and minimal warping
- Biodegradable: Made from renewable resources
- Low odor: Pleasant, slightly sweet smell when printing
- Good surface finish: Produces smooth, detailed prints
- Wide color selection: Available in many colors and finishes
Printing Settings
| Setting | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Extruder Temperature | 190-220°C |
| Bed Temperature | 20-60°C (heated bed optional) |
| Print Speed | 40-80 mm/s |
| Layer Height | 0.1-0.3mm |
| Cooling | 100% fan speed |
Best Use Cases
- Prototypes: Quick iteration and testing
- Decorative items: Figurines, vases, artistic pieces
- Educational models: Architectural models, educational tools
- Indoor use: Parts that won't be exposed to heat or stress
Limitations
- Heat sensitivity: Softens around 60°C, not suitable for car interiors
- Brittleness: Can be fragile compared to other materials
- UV degradation: Colors may fade over time in direct sunlight
- Limited flexibility: Not suitable for living hinges or flexible parts
Tips for Success
- No heated bed required: PLA can print directly on glass or tape
- Use cooling: High fan speeds improve overhang quality
- Storage: Keep filament dry to prevent quality issues
- First layer: Ensure good bed adhesion for best results
Available Colors
We offer PLA in a wide range of colors including:
- Standard colors: Black, White, Red, Blue, Green, Yellow
- Translucent options: Clear, Translucent Red, Blue, Green
- Special finishes: Silk, Marble, Wood-filled, Metal-filled