Comparing PLA vs ABS: Which Material is Best for Your 3D Prints?
ABS and PLA are two of the most common additive manufacturing technology materials. PLA and ABS are the famous 3D printing filament used in fused deposition modeling (FDM).
3D printing materials come in a variety of forms, including plastic filaments such as PLA (Polylactic Acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), specialised resins and metals. Each material has its own unique properties which make it suitable for different applications, from automotive parts to art projects. Choosing the right 3D printing material for your project is essential in order to achieve the desired results.
Before PLA vs ABS, we need to learn the differences between PLA vs ABS filament and how to print them both! Ultimately, the best material for your project will depend on your specific needs.
Contents
What is 3D printing?
The main materials used for 3D printing
Applications of 3D Printing Parts
What is PLA?
What Is PLA Filaments?
Characteristics and Properties of PLA
What is ABS?
What Is ABS Filaments?
Characteristics and Properties of ABS
What’s the difference between PLA and ABS?
What is Ultimaker PLA 3D printers?
How fast can you print with PLA and ABS?
Surface finishes and post-processing for PLA
Surface finishes and post-processing for ABS
PLA vs ABS Filaments: Applications
Is ABS more toxic than PLA?
Is PLA cheaper than ABS?
Is PLA more brittle than ABS?
How toxic is ABS plastic?
Is PLA or ABS better for the environment?
Should I buy ABS or PLA?
Is ABS or PLA easier to print?
What is the part accuracy of PLA and ABS?
How strong are ABS and PLA parts?
How heat resistant are PLA and ABS?
Are PLA and ABs biodegradable?
When should you use PLA?
When should you use ABS?
How long do PLA and ABS last?
Why is PLA stronger than ABS?
What are the Strengths and Weaknesses of PLA vs ABS?
Stronger Together: How to Get the Best of Both PLA and ABS
Modo Rapid 3D Printing Services
What is 3D Printing?
3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing, in which physical objects are created from digital designs. The process works by depositing material in layers to achieve an accurate and detailed representation of the 3D model.
This method can be used to create complex shapes, intricate details and robust components that would be difficult to make using traditional manufacturing techniques. The materials used in 3D printing range from plastics and resins to metals, ceramics, and more, allowing for a wide range of applications in many sectors.
The Main Materials Used for 3D Printing
The most commonly used materials for 3D printing include plastics, resins, metals, ceramics and a range of composite materials. Plastics are the most widely used material due to their availability and affordability. Resins are popular for producing high-quality parts with dimensional accuracy, while metals offer strength and durability.
Ceramics provide excellent wear resistance and heat stability, making them ideal for engineering applications. Composite materials such as carbon fiber enable the creation of parts that are both lightweight and strong. PLA and ABS 3D filaments are undoubtedly great choices compared to other filaments in the 3d printing industry.
Applications of 3D Printing Parts
3D printing technology has opened up a world of possibilities for the creation of complex, customisable parts. With 3D printing, parts can be designed with intricate detail and improved functionality that traditional manufacturing methods could never achieve.
This makes them ideal for applications ranging from prototyping and product design to medical implants and aerospace components. Different materials such as PLA, ABS, and other resins can be used for specific purposes, depending on the application and desired outcome.
What is PLA?
PLA (polylactic acid) is a bioplastic made from renewable sources such as cornstarch and sugarcane. It has become one of the most popular materials for 3D printing due to its low cost, ease of use and versatility.
PLA filaments can be used in a wide range of applications including prototyping, medical devices, and even jewelry due to its strength, durability and aesthetic appeal. It is also an environmentally friendly 3d printing material with minimal environmental impacts when compared to other plastics.
What Is PLA Filaments?
PLA filaments stands for polylactic acid filaments. are a type of biodegradable plastic used for 3D printing. It is made from renewable sources such as cornstarch and sugarcane.
PLA filaments are easy to use and produces high-quality prints with dimensional accuracy and minimal warping. It has become one of the most popular materials for 3D printing due to its low cost, versatility and environmental benefits. PLA filaments are available in a range of colors and finishes to suit your project needs.
Characteristics and Properties of PLA
Characteristics of PLA
PLA(polylactic acid) is a type of bioplastic made from renewable sources such as cornstarch and sugarcane. It is strong, durable and resistant to heat, making it ideal for a range of applications from prototyping to medical devices.
It has excellent dimensional accuracy with minimal warping or shrinking. It has good aesthetic appeal and is available in a range of colors and finishes. On top of all that, it is one of the most environmentally friendly plastics with minimal environmental impacts when compared to other plastics.
Properties of PLA
PLA(polylactic acid) is an incredibly strong and durable plastic that is highly resistant to heat. It has excellent dimensional accuracy, with minimal warping or shrinking. This makes it ideal for a range of applications from prototyping to medical devices. It is also very aesthetically pleasing and comes in a variety of colors and finishes.
On the other hand, PLA is widely used in rapid prototyping other than the critical function. One of its main benefits is that it is biodegradable and renewable which means it has minimal environmental impacts when compared to other plastics.
What Is ABS?
ABS stands for Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a type of plastic that is widely used in many manufacturing processes, like injection molding. It has excellent mechanical properties such as strength, impact resistance, and heat resistance.
It is also light weight and has good surface hardness. ABS can be found in a range of products such as automotive parts and appliances, as well as electronic components.
What Is ABS Filaments?
ABS filament is a type of 3D printing material that is made from the same plastic as ABS, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene. It has excellent mechanical properties and can be used to create complex 3D prints with a high level of detail.
It is slightly more difficult to work with than PLA filament but provides a more durable and resilient finished product. ABS filaments comes in a variety of colors and finishes, allowing for more creative designs.
Characteristics and Properties of ABS
Characteristics of ABS
ABS is a strong, lightweight and durable plastic that has excellent mechanical properties. It is heat resistant, impact-resistant and can be used in a variety of applications including automotive parts and electronics.
It has a high melting point, is non-toxic and does not emit any hazardous gases when used for 3D printing, making it a safe choice for this type of manufacturing process.
Properties of ABS
When it comes to material properties, ABS has a low coefficient of friction, making it ideal for applications such as bearings and rollers. It is also resistant to corrosion, wear and tear, and impact damage.
It is lightweight, flexible and can be moulded or extruded into almost any shape desired. ABS also has excellent weathering properties and does not degrade in sunlight or other types of exposure.
What’s the Difference Between PLA and ABS?
PLA (polylactic acid) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) are two of the most popular materials used in 3D printing. There are some key differences between PLA and ABS, including their mechanical properties, printing temperature and availability of different colors.
The main difference is that PLA is biodegradable while ABS is not. Printed objects made from PLA typically have a matte finish while those made with ABS tend to have a glossy finish.
PLA has a lower melting point than ABS, so it can be printed at lower temperatures, which makes it more suitable for beginners to 3D printing.
What is the Ultimaker PLA 3D Printer?
The Ultimaker PLA 3D printer is an advanced machine that can be used to create a variety of 3D objects from plastics. It features dual extrusion and heated build plate technology, making it ideal for high-quality prototyping or production parts.
The Ultimaker PLA 3D printer uses a 1.75mm filament, which is available in various colors.
It also has an open filament system, meaning it can support other materials such as ABS, PP, Nylon and PETG with optional accessories. The built-in slicing software makes it easy to prepare models for printing and includes helpful features such as multi-part printing, supports for complex geometries and customizable infill patterns.
How Fast Can You Print with PLA and ABS?
The speed at which a 3D printer can print depends on several factors, including the material used, the layer height, the infill settings and the type of printer. Generally speaking, ABS prints faster than PLA due to its higher melting point and greater flowability.
For instance, with a layer height of 0.15mm and an infill setting of 20%, PLA can be printed at speeds up to 80 mm/s while ABS can be printed as fast as 120 mm/s. In addition, some printers are optimized for specific materials and can achieve even higher speeds when printing with them.
Surface Finishes and Post-Processing for ABS
PLA is ideal when you’re looking for higher-quality aesthetics. Its lower printing temperature makes it easier to print with than ABS, especially if your parts have fine details.
ABS is a strong, durable plastic that is often used for 3D printing projects that require a professional look and feel. Just like PLA, ABS requires some post-processing in order to achieve a truly finished product.
This can include sanding down the surface to remove layer lines or blemishes, applying paint or primer to the object and using various techniques such as vapor smoothing to further enhance the smoothness of the print. Additionally, some specialized finishing techniques such as electroplating and carbon fiber reinforcement are also available.
PLA vs ABS Filaments: Applications
PLA and ABS are two of the most popular 3D printer filaments available today, and each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. you can 3D print parts with printing details of 0.8mm and 1.2mm. If you want to create the connecting or interlocking parts of printing details of 0.5mm, then we recommend setting tolerance at 0.5mm.
PLA is a stronger material that is often used for structural applications such as cases and frames. It also offers a smoother surface finish which makes it ideal for aesthetic projects like figures or models. PLA is better suited to parts that focus on form instead of function, for example, a visual prototype.
ABS is a more flexible material that can be used in functional purposes as well. It is resistant to heat, chemicals, and physical impacts making it perfect for engineering applications. Additionally, it can be post-processed to achieve a higher level of quality than PLA. ABS is weaker and less rigid, making it a better plastic for prototyping applications.
Is ABS More Toxic Than PLA?
The short answer is yes. ABS is considered more toxic than PLA for two main reasons. First, when heated and melted, it releases harmful chemicals such as styrene and acrylonitrile into the air. Second, it contains potentially hazardous plasticizers which can leach out into the environment if not properly disposed of after use.
Despite this, many consider ABS to be a safer option for 3D printing since its emissions are relatively low compared to other plastics. The best way to minimize risk from toxins released from ABS is to set up a ventilated area with proper ventilation while printing and dispose of used filament responsibly afterwards.
Is PLA Cheaper Than ABS?
Yes, PLA is generally cheaper than ABS. This is because it is a simpler material to produce and does not require any additional processing or use of plasticizers like ABS does. It also has a lower melting temperature which can help save energy costs when printing.
However, if you look only at the expense of raw materials, ABS is probably cheaper than PLA. As ABS is widely used in injection molding to make regular, smaller parts, such as parts for an interior car or Lego.
Overall, PLA is a good option if you are looking for an affordable 3D printing filament. However, keep in mind that it may not be as strong or durable as ABS depending on your needs.
Is PLA More Brittle Than ABS?
Yes, PLA is generally more brittle than ABS. This is due to its lower melting temperature and lack of additives used to make it more durable. As a result, PLA objects may be prone to cracking or breaking if not properly handled and supported during printing. However, certain PLA+ filaments have been developed which offer increased strength and rigidity compared to standard PLA filaments.
How Toxic is ABS Plastic?
ABS plastic is generally considered to be a safe material for use in 3D printing. It does not contain any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or other harmful chemicals, and it has been deemed non-toxic by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
However, ABS can produce hazardous fumes when heated above 500°F, so proper ventilation should be provided while operating a 3D printer. Additionally, care should be taken to avoid inhaling the dust created during post-processing of ABS objects.
Is PLA or ABS Better for the Environment?
As we know, burning thermoplastic releases unhealthy fumes because they consist of harmful particulates. PLA is generally considered to be more environmentally friendly than ABS since it is derived from renewable sources such as corn and sugar cane, rather than petroleum.
However, ABS does have its advantages – for example, it produces fewer hazardous fumes when heated compared to PLA.
Additionally, both materials can be recycled at industrial waste and recycling centers. PLA is very sticky when heated because it is made of natural sugar, which is one of its key properties. When you print PLA parts, you will smell an aromatic smell and the parts will stick to the print bed.
Should I Buy ABS or PLA?
The choice between ABS and PLA plastic depends on individual needs. Both materials are suitable for a wide range of applications, and both provide advantages and disadvantages. To make the best choice it is important to consider the specific project requirements, budget, product lifespan and other factors. Ultimately the decision should be based on what is best for you and your rapid prototyping project.
Is ABS or PLA Easier to Print?
Generally speaking, PLA is considered to be the easier of the two plastics to print with. This is mainly due to its low printing temperature and minimal warping that occurs when cooling. ABS can be more difficult to work with as it requires an enclosed workspace and higher temperatures. It is also more prone to warping and cracking due to cooling.
What is the Part Accuracy of PLA and ABS?
The part accuracy for both PLA and ABS can vary significantly depending on the 3D printer used.
Generally, the accuracy of ABS and PLA filaments is proportional to printer calibration and model complexity. PLA offers better layer adhesion and produces smoother surfaces compared to ABS. ABS is typically more durable than PLA and has a higher level of impact resistance. It also shrinks less during cooling and results in increased dimensional accuracy.
How strong are ABS and PLA parts?
The strength of a PLA or ABS part will depend on the printer used, but generally speaking, both plastics tend to be quite strong.
PLA parts can typically withstand limited amounts of pressure and tension before breaking. PLA+ is an enhanced version of PLA. Like PLA, PLA+ is also easy to print, exhibits minimal shrinkage after printing, and is great for proof-of-concept prototypes.
In comparison, ABS parts are usually more durable and can withstand higher levels of stress without fracturing or breaking. Nylon is a flexible, durable plastic with less strength and stiffness than both PLA and ABS. Its malleability lends it much more toughness than the other two, however, with an impact resistance ten times that of ABS. Nylon also boasts a good chemical resistance, which opens the possibility to more industrial applications.
Parts printed in the PLA filament distort when exposed to heat in excess of 120 °F, whereas ABS parts can withstand 200 °F before losing their structural integrity.
How Heat Resistant are PLA and ABS?
PLA and ABS both have high heat resistance, making them suitable for applications with higher temperature requirements. PLA has an upper temperature limit of around 180-220°C, while ABS is more resistant to heat with a maximum temperature of around 105-120°C. Both materials also have good thermal shock resistance, meaning they can withstand sudden changes in temperature without becoming brittle or warping.
Are PLA and ABS Biodegradable?
PLA and ABS are both thermoplastics, which means they are created through a manufacturing process using heat. They are not naturally biodegradable like other materials such as wood or paper. However, given enough time and the right conditions, PLA and ABS parts can be broken down by a process called photodegradation when exposed to ultraviolet light.
When Should You Use PLA?
PLA is a great choice for applications that don’t require high temperatures or mechanical strength, but still need good dimensional stability during printing. It has a relatively lower printing temperature and can be used for a variety of 3D printed parts such as prosthetics, prototypes, end-use products, and art pieces. The material is also biodegradable and available in a variety of colors, making it perfect for environmentally friendly projects.
When Should You Use ABS?
ABS is a great choice for applications that require higher temperature and mechanical strength than PLA can provide. It has a relatively high melting temperature and can be used for a variety of 3D printed parts such as automobile components, toys, and industrial tools. Many designers may design their ABS parts by CNC machining. The material is also available in a variety of colors and finishes, making it perfect for creative projects. It is otherwise difficult to print ABS reliably without enclosing the 3D printer in a heated build chamber.
How Long Do PLA and ABS Last?
The lifespan of PLA and ABS will depend on the conditions in which they are printed, as well as how much wear and tear they are exposed to. In general, PLA and ABS are designed to last for a long time without significantly deteriorating. For most applications, PLA can last up to two years while ABS can last up to five years.
Why is PLA stronger than ABS?
This is because ABS is a very temperature sensitive material, so parts can break when printed when there is airflow or temperature changes. PLA is easier to print in this area because you don’t need a case to protect the part, although a protective cover can improve print quality.
What are the Strengths and Weaknesses of PLA vs ABS?
PLA and ABS are two of the most popular 3D printing filaments, and each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses.
Strengths of PLA:
- Biodegradable: PLA is made from renewable resources such as corn starch and is biodegradable, making it an eco-friendly option.
- Easy to Print: PLA is easy to print with and produces less warping and shrinkage than ABS, making it a popular choice for beginners.
- Wide Range of Colors: PLA is available in a wide range of colors, making it ideal for use in 3D printing projects that require bright and vibrant colors.
- Low Toxicity: PLA is a non-toxic filament and does not emit harmful fumes during printing.
Weaknesses of PLA:
- Brittle: PLA is more brittle than ABS and has lower impact resistance.
- Low Temperature Resistance: PLA can soften and deform at temperatures above 60°C, making it unsuitable for high-temperature applications.
- Limited Durability: PLA is not as durable as ABS and may degrade over time.
Strengths of ABS:
- High Impact Resistance: ABS is known for its high impact resistance and toughness, making it ideal for use in applications that require strength and durability.
- Heat Resistance: ABS is heat resistant and can withstand high temperatures without deforming, making it suitable for use in high-temperature applications.
- Excellent Machinability: ABS is easy to machine and can be sanded, drilled, and painted, making it ideal for creating finished products.
- Chemical Resistance: ABS is resistant to many chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and oils.
Weaknesses of ABS:
- Warping and Shrinkage: ABS can be prone to warping and shrinkage during printing, making it more challenging to print with than PLA.
- Fumes and Odor: ABS emits fumes during printing that can be unpleasant and potentially harmful, so it should only be used in well-ventilated areas.
- Petroleum-Based: ABS is made from petroleum-based plastics, which is not as eco-friendly as PLA.
Overall, the choice between PLA and ABS will depend on the specific needs of your project, including strength, durability, temperature resistance, and eco-friendliness.
Stronger Together: How to Get the Best of Both PLA and ABS
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds and want to combine the strengths of PLA and ABS, you can use a technique called “dual extrusion.” This involves using two different extruder heads on your 3D printer, one for PLA and one for ABS, to print a single object.
By using dual extrusion, you can create objects that have the strength and durability of ABS in some areas and the ease of use and biodegradability of PLA in others. For example, you could print the main body of an object in ABS, which would provide strength and durability, and then use PLA to print the more intricate or decorative parts of the object.
Another way to combine the strengths of PLA and ABS is to use a hybrid filament that contains both materials. These filaments usually consist of a mixture of PLA and ABS, and can provide a good balance of strength, durability, and ease of use.
When using dual extrusion or hybrid filaments, it’s important to make sure that your 3D printer is capable of handling these materials and that you have the necessary software and settings to control the extruders and temperature.
In summary, by using dual extrusion or hybrid filaments, you can combine the strengths of PLA and ABS to create objects that have the best of both materials. This technique can be particularly useful when printing complex or functional objects that require different properties in different areas.
Modo Rapid 3D Printing Services
Modo Rapid provide 6 types of 3d printing services, include 6 Types of 3D Printing services:
1. Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
2.Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
3. Stereolithography (SLA)
4.HP® Multi Jet Fusion
5.PolyJet
6.Electronic Beam Melting (EBM), Laminated Object Manufacturing (LOM), Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Digital Light Processing (DLP), and others.
From rapid prototyping to production of complex custom parts, Modo Rapid 3D printing services offer a range of benefits to industry. With reduced costs, faster time-to-market, and improved product performance, companies can quickly iterate products to achieve optimal results and compete in today’s highly competitive market. 3D printing services also provide access to a wide variety of materials such as plastic filament, metal alloys, and specialized resins that can be used for specific applications.
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