ABS and PLA are the most common desktop FDM printed materials. Most beginners start with PLA because it does not require very high temperature to print and does not generate bad smelling along the process.

The question is, how does PLA hold up in terms of strength and durability? The Tamiya Falcon in this video has its front arms, C hubs and middle gear 3d printed with PLA. It has gone through almost 30 packs of 2S using a silver can. No issue so far.

 

The gear shown below has gone through more than 50 packs of 2S before breakage.

3D Printing Surface Coating Liquid can actually help in strengthening the 3d printed parts:

 

 

For highly stressful parts do NOT use PLA. Even Pet G is weak. ABS is strong but not easy to print due to shrinkage and smell. Nylon is not easy too. Polycarbonate aka PC is a material renowned in the 3D printing market for its impact resistance and transparency. It is getting more popular now.

 

Total Views: 780 ,
TOP