Filament, what I looked into, and my purchase

 

I have recently come to the conclusion that I need to buy more filament to expand my 3D printing capabilities. I decided that I should experiment with different materials, and have a range of colours at my disposal. 

Exploring different filaments I have learned a lot about the various filaments on the market. From box standard PLA to the more expensive Nylon filament. With all of these options at my finger tips I decided to judge them on particular traits. 

 

 

These traits were: out-door use, durability, and cost.

 

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PLA:

 

My initial material (Blue PLA) is a good cheap material for indoor prints, though it would not fair well in the Hawkes' Bay sun.

 

Outdoor Usability: PLA is suitable for outdoor use but may degrade over time when exposed to UV light. However, PLA, with added additives for UV resistance, can improve its outdoor performance.

 

Durability: PLA is biodegradable and generally less durable compared to other materials listed here. It can be brittle and prone to breaking under stress.

 

Cost: PLA is one of the most affordable filament options available and is great for prototyping and indoor prints.

 

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PETG:

 

Unlike PLA, PETG combines UV and water resistance to make it a good material for outdoor use at a similar low price as PLA. 

 

Outdoor Usability: PETG is more resistant to UV light compared to PLA and is suitable for outdoor applications. It maintains its strength and structural integrity over time.

 

Durability: PETG is more durable than PLA, offering better impact resistance and flexibility. It can withstand moderate stress.

 

Cost: PETG is slightly more expensive than PLA but still relatively affordable.

 

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Nylon:

Nylon, which is also water-resistant, is able to be put under stress for long periods. Factoring in its UV resistance, Nylon is excellent for outdoor use, albeit at a higher price. 

 

Outdoor Usability: Nylon is suitable for outdoor use, offering good resistance to UV light and weathering. It maintains its mechanical properties over extended periods.

 

Durability: Nylon is known for its excellent durability, toughness, and resistance to impact and abrasion. It can withstand heavy loads and repeated stress without deforming.

 

Cost: Nylon is usually more expensive than PLA and ABS but provides superior performance in terms of durability and strength.

 

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ABS:

 

ABS, like its PLA brother, is best suited for indoors as it can discolour and become brittle in sunlight. ABS is a bit more expensive than PLA, but it won't break the bank.

 

Outdoor Usability: ABS can be used outdoors but may degrade over time when exposed to UV light, resulting in yellowing and brittleness.

 

Durability: ABS is durable and impact-resistant, making it suitable for functional prototypes and end-use parts. It offers better mechanical properties than PLA but is less resistant to stress than some other materials.

 

Cost: ABS is typically more expensive than PLA but cheaper than Nylon filaments.

 

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My Purchase: 

In the end, I decided to go for one roll of 1kg Orange PLA and one roll of Black PETG. 

 

I chose the Orange PLA for two reasons. One was it's colour, and two was because of its low cost. These two factors make it attractive for expanding my colour range and for cheap prototyping. 

 

The PETG, on the other hand, was chosen because of its ability to withstand the elements. The black colour should help it in the sun, and the water resistance will make it good for functional prints like my Green House clips.